Joe Franklin sworn in as Manhattan Beach mayor; council honors outgoing mayor David Lesser

Joe Franklin was appointed mayor of Manhattan Beach at the council's May 19 organizational meeting, after a vote that formalized the city's annual mayoral rotation. Outgoing Mayor David Lesser moved to appoint Franklin; the motion was seconded and the appointment carried by a 5-0 vote.

The council opened the meeting with a ceremonial presentation honoring local volunteers and businesses. Aaron Sun led the Pledge of Allegiance and was recognized by the council for installing mile markers as part of an Eagle Scout project. The council also presented a certificate to Bob Beverly of the Shellback Tavern for his longtime role in the community.

In remarks after the appointment, incoming Mayor Joe Franklin said he plans to expand resident-facing transparency sessions and pursue what he described as "strategic budget reductions that preserve essential services." Franklin said he will consider a "no net new positions" approach to staffing to help stabilize costs while maintaining core operations.

Outgoing Mayor David Lesser received a ceremonial gavel and a plaque from colleagues who praised his consensus-building and attention to detail. Lesser, who will remain on the council, said he has sought to "facilitate council discussions through consensus building, through civil conversations" and reiterated concerns about statewide housing mandates that he called an "existential threat" to local zoning in prepared remarks.

The council also selected Tarney as mayor pro tem in a separate vote recorded as passing 5-0. The newly configured leadership team said they will prioritize the senior-and-scout community center, continued environmental stewardship, and community events tied to the city's America 250 observances.

The meeting recessed briefly for a photo session and refreshments before resuming with the consent calendar and other items.