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Redlands council reverts to nomination process, elects Mario Salcedo mayor after heated public comments
Summary
After hours of public comment opposing and supporting a proposed repeal of the city’s rotational mayor policy, the Redlands City Council adopted Resolution 8508 to return to a council‑nomination model and elected Councilmember Mario Salcedo mayor in a roll‑call vote.
The Redlands City Council on Dec. 17 voted 4–1 to adopt Resolution 8508, returning the city to a council‑nomination process for selecting the mayor and then selected Councilmember Mario Salcedo as the city’s new mayor.
The council debated the measure after an extended public‑comment period in which scores of residents appeared in person and on Zoom to either defend the two‑year rotational mayor model adopted two years ago or to argue in favor of selecting a mayor by council nomination or electing a mayor at large. The resolution was adopted after roll‑call voting; one councilmember voted no and four voted yes.
Supporters of the rotational model told the council the system improves transparency and representation. "Maintaining a rotational mayor system will give residents an open understanding on how their mayor is selected," said a speaker who identified herself as Tracy Wise, urging the council to keep the rotation. Former councilmembers and other longtime residents said the rotation gives diverse representatives an opportunity to serve in the ceremonial and representative duties of the office.
Opponents said a mayor chosen by peers or elected at large provides continuity and credibility when negotiating with outside agencies and developers. "A rotating mayor often lacks the perceived legitimacy and leadership strength needed to effectively represent the city," Mayor Pro Tem Paul Barich said during council remarks before the vote, arguing the nomination model strengthens the mayor’s negotiating position.
After adopting Resolution 8508, the council opened nominations for mayor. The nomination of Councilmember Denise Davis failed to win a majority. Councilmember Mario Salcedo then was nominated and received the votes necessary to be declared mayor. Council later nominated and confirmed Mark Shaw as mayor pro tem.
Public speakers urged the council to honor a prior council decision and the expectations of residents who had supported the rotational model. "Tonight, we are faced with an issue that goes beyond the mere question of who occupies the position of mayor," said a speaker who identified as a resident and urged adherence to the rotation. Multiple residents said the timing of the proposal — on the night when rotation would have taken effect — undermined public trust.
Council members said they had read public emails and listened to comments. The motion to adopt the resolution was moved by the mayor and seconded by another councilmember; the clerk conducted roll‑call voting for both the resolution and the subsequent mayoral nominations. Following the votes, the newly elected mayor and mayor pro tem offered brief remarks committing to work with colleagues and prioritize major capital projects and public services.
The council’s action will change how Redlands selects its mayor going forward unless altered by a future council vote or placed on a ballot for direct election. The meeting record shows the item drew the largest public turnout of the evening and dominated the hour of public comment preceding the council’s roll‑call votes.
The council adjourned and will reconvene for its next regular meeting on Jan. 21, 2025.
