Politics & Government
San Diego City Council Reacts to Mayor Bob Filner Sexual Harassment Claims
Some council members want Filner to resign.
San Diego Mayor Bob Filner apologized Thursday in response to multiple claims of sexual harassment, but did not heed calls for him to resign.
Here are statements from San Diego City Council members, before and after his apology:
District 2: Councilman Kevin Faulconer
(Issued before the apology.)
"It saddens me that San Diego is crumbling under Mayor Filner's scandals, including these most recent sexual misconduct allegations. These allegations are very serious and Bob Filner owes the public a full explanation."
District 3: Council President Todd Gloria
(Issued before the apology.)
“Sexual harassment is a serious matter, and these allegations deserve a response. San Diegans need to hear from the Mayor soon.
People must be treated with respect and are right to expect a workplace that is free of harassment and intimidation. I offer my assurance to any person who may have been harassed that their claims will not be discounted should they come forward. All applicable administrative and legal protocols will be followed by the City.
While this matter continues to unfold, my City Council colleagues and I will remain focused doing the people’s business and running an efficient and effective municipal government.”
District 4: Councilwoman Myrtle Cole
“As a former police officer, I am very aware of the seriousness of these sexual harassment allegations.
I am very shocked and disappointed to hear the Mayor admit to his inappropriate behavior, and seeking help is the right first step.
And as the Mayor has indicated, if his behavior doesn’t change or further erodes the ability of the City to conduct the people’s business, then he should resign.”
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"It is disturbing that the Mayor did not deny any of the allegations made by four high-profile San Diegans. Our immediate focus should be on the safety of our workers. No employee should feel intimidated or vulnerable on the job. We have to ensure that the City of San Diego sets the highest possible standards for professionalism in the workplace. Any and all claims must be immediately investigated by the City."
District 6: Councilwoman Lorie Zapf
“As a woman, I am deeply troubled by this behavior. As an elected official who represents the citizens of San Diego, I am saddened for what this means for our City. I ask that the Mayor do the honorable thing and step down.”
District 7: Councilman Scott Sherman
"I am calling on Mayor Filner to resign. He has admitted that he is guilty of sexually harassing women and his actions are unacceptable under any circumstance. Unfortunately this is the latest and most disturbing of a series of scandals that make him incapable of leading our city."
District 8: Councilman David Alvarez
"Donna Frye showed real courage in bringing these allegations to light. I am also disappointed in Mayor Filner. It is clear to me that the Mayor’s behavior must change. If it does not change, then he should resign.”
District 9: Councilwoman Marti Emerald
“I commend Mayor Filner for the courage to admit he has made mistakes and for his commitment to change his behavior. I hope the people of San Diego will support Mayor Filner in his effort to make a change and continue to make a positive difference in our city.” (via U-T San Diego)
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