TERM LIMITS TEMPEST!
EX-MAYOR BURTON BLASTS ‘CAREER POLITICIANS’ IN SURPRISE COUNCIL COMEBACK BID:
A political earthquake may be shaking up Manhattan Beach City Hall. Former Manhattan Beach Mayor Mark Burton announced this week that he is officially jumping into the City Council race, launching a fiery campaign centered on fiscal accountability, term limits, and what he calls the dangerous rise of “career politicians” at City Hall. Burton’s surprise entry comes after learning that current Councilmembers Amy Howorth and David Lesser intend to seek a fourth term in office. “This decision is not personal,” Burton said in a sharply worded public statement. “Howorth and Lesser are good people. However, after 12 years on the Council, their dismal record deserves careful scrutiny – particularly when it comes to the City’s fiscal condition.” Burton pointed to a dramatic increase in the City’s pension liabilities, claiming pension debt has ballooned from under $8 million to more than $100 million during their tenure. He also criticized growing staffing levels and employee compensation costs, alleging that dozens of city employees now receive compensation packages exceeding $300,000 and even $400,000 annually. The former mayor further blasted the recently approved 5% annual raises for employee groups over the next three years, while the City faces mounting financial strain. According to Burton, Manhattan Beach’s FY27 budget projected a deficit exceeding $10 million and was balanced only through one-time transfers, including tapping the City’s entire $4 million emergency reserve fund. “It is time for change,” Burton declared. If elected, Burton says he will bring a fiscally conservative approach focused on “accountability, transparency, and responsible budgeting,” while pledging to support strict term limits of no more than two terms for Councilmembers. With election season now heating up, Burton’s entry instantly transforms the race into what could become one of the most contentious political battles Manhattan Beach has seen in years.
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MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Dr. Kimberlie “Kim” Linz
(MBUSD New Superintendent)
PART ONE
Q: WHAT FIRST ATTRACTED YOU TO THE MANHATTAN BEACH SCHOOL DISTRICT, AND WHAT ULTIMATELY CONVINCED YOU THIS WAS THE RIGHT OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUR NEXT LEADERSHIP CHAPTER?
A: Manhattan Beach Unified has a proven record of student achievement, strong schools, and high levels of family and community involvement. I previously served in Manhattan Beach for more than a decade, including as principal of Pacific Elementary and Manhattan Beach Middle School, so I know the district’s expectations and the importance the community places on student success and well-being. This opportunity aligns closely with my experience as a teacher, principal, and district leader. Throughout my career, my work has focused on creating the conditions for students to learn, grow, and be well prepared for the future. The superintendent’s role requires attention to instruction, student support, staffing, budget, facilities, and long-range planning because all of those systems affect the daily experience of students. What attracted me most was the opportunity to return to a district with a strong foundation and help ensure that every student continues to receive an excellent education in a safe, supportive, and well-run school system.
Q: EVERY SUPERINTENDENT INHERITS BOTH STRENGTHS AND CHALLENGES – WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE GREATEST OPPORTUNITY AND THE GREATEST CHALLENGE FACING MANHATTAN BEACH SCHOOLS TODAY?
A: The district’s greatest strengths are its students, staff, families, and tradition of academic excellence. Manhattan Beach students perform at high levels, participate in a wide range of academic, athletic, arts, and extracurricular programs, and benefit from strong support at home and in the community. The greatest opportunity is to ensure that every student’s experience is strong from elementary school through graduation. That includes maintaining high academic expectations, strengthening interventions when students need help, expanding opportunities for students to explore interests, and making sure students are known and supported by the adults on campus. The greatest challenge will be maintaining that high-quality student experience while the district manages financial pressures. Rising costs and a state funding formula that does not match the expectations or cost structure of a high-performing district affect the resources available for programs and services our students deserve. The work ahead will require clear priorities, careful planning, and a focus on protecting what matters most for students.
Q: ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IS EXPECTED IN MANHATTAN BEACH, BUT MANY PARENTS ARE INCREASINGLY CONCERNED ABOUT STUDENT STRESS AND MENTAL HEALTH. HOW DO YOU PLAN TO BALANCE ACHIEVEMENT WITH STUDENT WELL-BEING?
A: Academic excellence and student well-being both show up in the daily lives of students. A student’s schedule, workload, access to help, relationships with adults, sense of belonging, and ability to manage stress all affect how well that student learns. The focus should be on supporting students early. That may include academic intervention, counseling support, clear communication about available resources, consistent expectations across schools, and attention to the overall student experience. The goal is not to reduce expectations for students. The goal is to make sure students have the support, structure, and a healthy school environment needed to meet high expectations.
www.MBUSD.org
Slay Italian Kitchen:
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1001 Manhattan Ave | (424) 257-8301 | www.SlayItalianKitchen.com
City Hall Goes Live – Mayor Joe Franklin Brings Back MB Weekly’s People-Powered Q&A:
Newly sworn-in Manhattan Beach Mayor Joe Franklin is reopening the doors of City Hall – at least digitally – by reviving the popular “Ask The Mayor” monthly column exclusively for MB Weekly. The widely followed question-and-answer feature will allow readers from across the South Bay to submit questions directly to the Mayor on the city’s hottest issues, including development, taxes, parking, public safety, homelessness, traffic, and the future direction of Manhattan Beach. In announcing the return of the column, editors at MB Weekly applauded Franklin’s willingness to engage directly with residents in an unfiltered public forum. “We are thrilled the Mayor has resumed this popular column, bringing more transparency to city affairs,” the editors said. Franklin, known for his plain-spoken style and accessibility to residents, said he believes local government works best when leaders answer directly to the people – especially during a time when many Americans feel disconnected from public institutions. The column is expected to become one of the city’s most closely watched monthly features, giving residents a front-row seat to the conversations shaping Manhattan Beach’s future.
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HAS THE CURRENT CRAZE WITH OZEMPIC LED TO A SIGNIFICANT DECREASE IN FOOD AND ALCOHOL SALES:
** LISA HEMMAT (Proprietor of Lido di Manhattan): I think it’s something the restaurant industry is definitely talking about, but I wouldn’t say we’ve seen some huge dramatic drop because of Ozempic specifically. People’s habits have changed in general over the last few years – some people may order a little less, split dishes more often, or drink less alcohol, but dining out has always been about more than just eating. People still want connection, celebration, date nights, business dinners, girls nights, and experiences. Hospitality is emotional and social, and I don’t think that goes away because appetites are smaller. If anything, it’s pushed restaurants to evolve a bit – offering lighter options, mocktails, share plates, and more experience-driven dining. The restaurants that continue to create a fun atmosphere, great service, and a sense of community are still staying busy.
** GREG NEWMAN (Proprietor of Esperanza): Honestly it’s too hard to tell, you would have to do a poll. Generally our business is up.
MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
Spare The Rod – Readers Sound Off In MB Weekly Poll
A new MB Weekly reader poll is sparking debate across the South Bay after 63% of respondents said they have no moral objection to spanking children. The poll, conducted among readers, touched a cultural nerve on parenting, discipline, and changing social values. Supporters of spanking argued that “occasional, reasonable discipline” helped maintain boundaries and respect, with several readers insisting they were spanked as children “without harm.” Critics, however, called the practice outdated and emotionally damaging, citing modern child psychology research discouraging corporal punishment. The results reveal a sharp divide between traditional parenting views and newer approaches emphasizing communication and emotional development. One Manhattan Beach parent wrote, “Discipline matters – but fear should never be the teacher.” The intriguing poll generated discussion proving once again that few subjects ignite stronger emotions than parenting – and how far parents should go to keep children in line.
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Dive N’ Surf:
Dive into the Point Loma Kelp Forest with us on May 23rd
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504 N Broadway, Redondo Beach | (310) 372-8423 | www.DiveNSurf.com
Swastika Shocker At Mira Costa – Second Hate Symbol Rocks South Bay Campus:
A second swastika drawing discovered inside a boys’ restroom at Mira Costa High School has intensified outrage and concern throughout the Manhattan Beach community, according to an update released by the Manhattan Beach Unified School District. The latest antisemitic graffiti was reported anonymously by a student on May 8 – just days after school officials disclosed an earlier swastika discovered in the same restroom stall. Administrators responded immediately, filed a police report, and removed the symbol. District officials say campus administrators and security personnel are now aggressively reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing students who entered the restroom during the narrowed timeframe. While no suspects have yet been identified, officials vowed to take disciplinary action if those responsible are found.
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Money Talks – MBUSD Set To Teach Students The Language Of Financial Success:
Manhattan Beach Unified School District (MBUSD) is preparing to introduce a financial literacy course beginning in fall 2027, equipping students with essential money management skills. In fall 2026, the district will collaborate with teachers to develop curriculum and materials. The proposed course will go before the Board of Trustees for approval in January 2027. MBUSD spokeswoman Grace Edgington said the district is excited to expand its course offerings with practical, real-world education. The initiative reflects a growing recognition that financial literacy is a critical life skill for students preparing for adulthood.
Rooftop Pilates At Shade Hotel:
Pilates Summer Series / Saturdays in May-July 9AM
1221 N Valley Drive | (310) 546-4995 | www.ShadeHotel.com
MB WEEKLY – Q&A:
with George Barks
(Running for CA Assembly District 66)
Q: MANY CALIFORNIANS FEEL SACRAMENTO IS INCREASINGLY DISCONNECTED FROM THE DAILY CONCERNS OF WORKING FAMILIES. IF ELECTED TO THE CALIFORNIA STATE ASSEMBLY, WHAT SPECIFIC ISSUE WOULD YOU FIGHT FOR FIRST – AND WHY DO YOU BELIEVE IT MATTERS SO DEEPLY TO DISTRICT 66?
A: My priorities when elected to the State Assembly will be to support our small businesses, and support our families with cost of living, cost of healthcare, cost of childcare and working to help people buy their first home. We are currently in the middle of an affordability crisis. We hear about it every day. Now, I know I am only one person, but my entire purpose when elected will be to find ways to lower those stress levels around affordability in our State and our district.
Q: CALIFORNIA CONTINUES TO STRUGGLE WITH AFFORDABILITY, CRIME, HOMELESSNESS, AND PUBLIC TRUST IN GOVERNMENT. WHERE DO YOU BELIEVE STATE LEADERSHIP HAS FAILED MOST DRAMATICALLY OVER THE LAST DECADE, AND HOW WOULD YOUR APPROACH BE DIFFERENT?
A: If you want to know where our leadership failed, look around! Crime and homelessness is a real problem. The root of this problem is affordability, over-regulation, and the funneling of taxpayer funds to wasteful endeavors. We need a change in Sacramento! We need more diversity of thought and we certainly need oversight. When elected I want to work with oversight committees to make sure that our taxpayer money is going to the right places – supporting our law enforcement agencies and working to make sure our cities have funding for local programs that support schools, infrastructure and programs that eradicate the problems that cause people to live on the streets. The cities should have more local control and support from Sacramento. Instead we are seeing a legislature that is not only wasting taxpayer money but is also enforcing one-size-fits all policies that are hurting the communities throughout the state of California.
Q: CAMPAIGNS OFTEN FOCUS ON PROMISES, BUT LEADERSHIP IS REALLY TESTED DURING MOMENTS OF PRESSURE AND CONTROVERSY. CAN YOU SHARE A PERSONAL OR PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE THAT REVEALED YOUR CHARACTER AND PREPARED YOU TO SERVE THE PEOPLE OF DISTRICT 66?
A: As a former Mayor and City Councilman for the City of Hermosa Beach, I was the only one on the council that supported an unknown proposition at that time – Prop 13. Our council had lengthy discussions about this proposition and how it would affect our communities and the consensus was that it would not work. Now, Prop 13 is hailed as one of the most important laws around homeownership because it keeps property taxes low, supports our seniors and encourages generational wealth. Owning your home is a cornerstone of the American Dream and without Prop 13, many people would have been forced to sell their property. The other side of this argument at that time was that the cities would have a dramatic reduction of property tax revenue which would put pressure on city budgets. That said, I believed then and I believe now, that a community starts with the wellbeing of its residents. And it turns out, I was right. It’s not easy to stand up against your fellow council members or committee members, but in some cases, it’s the right thing to do.
www.VoteForGeorgeBarks.com
E-Bike Crackdown – MBUSD Warns Students “No Sticker, No Parking”:
The Manhattan Beach Unified School District will continue its e-bike sticker program for the 2026–27 school year, requiring students in grades 4–12 to complete a safety course through PedalAce or E-Bike Sense before receiving a campus parking sticker. The District plans six safety sessions over two Saturdays in August, with registration details to be announced in June. Students must bring a helmet and a street-legal e-bike. Officials also warned that illegally parked e-bikes may be fined or confiscated by the Manhattan Beach Police Department. In contrast, unstickered bikes on campus will be confiscated and require parent pickup.
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Estell Boutique:
Explore elevated European designs for modern women. Our collection perfectly blends casual, business, and special occasion attire to keep you stylish.
912-A Manhattan Ave. | (310) 985-7717 | www.EstellBoutiques.com
A.I.-WOOD – Director Bets Robots Can Bring Jobs Back To Hollywood:
Jon Erwin
Hollywood may fear artificial intelligence is coming for its jobs, but filmmaker Jon Erwin says the future could actually mean more work – not less. Erwin, among the first directors at a major streaming platform to fully integrate A.I. into commercial production, recently launched Innovative Dream in Manhattan Beach with backing from Amazon. The new production services company will rent virtual production facilities to studios and train emerging filmmakers in cutting-edge tools. While much of Hollywood braces for layoffs and disruption, Erwin argues that the ethical use of A.I. in real human performances could revive some production jobs lost to overseas outsourcing – even as other traditional roles disappear in the industry’s rapidly changing landscape.
Zebrowski Group:
“A trusted advisor, a community fixture, and someone
who takes pride in helping families make meaningful moves.”
(310) 678-7158 | Brett@ZebrowskiGroup.com | www.ZebrowskiGroup.com
Parking Madness – MB Fears RV Invasion As L.A. Cuts Homeless Programs:
Something is shifting on Southern California streets – and Manhattan Beach residents are increasingly worried. Los Angeles County will eliminate funding for safe parking programs on July 1, shutting down three South L.A. sites serving roughly 60 households. Countywide, an estimated 200 to 400 vehicle-dwelling households could lose placements. UCLA and RAND researchers estimate as many as 21,000 people across L.A. County may now live in cars, vans, and RVs. Vans used as housing reportedly jumped 44% in a recent count year. Critics warn Manhattan Beach’s permissive overnight parking rules could make the city a magnet for vehicle dwellers displaced from stricter neighboring communities. MBSAFE says it is closely monitoring developments.
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BELLA BUILDERS:
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From Iron Rails To Green Trails:
A new gateway honoring Manhattan Beach history is coming to Veterans Parkway. This week, the Leadership Manhattan Beach Class of 2026 unveiled “Iron Rails to Green Trails,” a public sign commemorating the corridor’s transformation from a bustling Santa Fe rail line into today’s beloved pedestrian Greenbelt. The ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated both the city’s past and its future, highlighting how freight and passenger trains once traveled the route connecting the Southwest to the South Bay. Leadership Manhattan Beach’s nine-month civic program teaches local stakeholders about city government, public policy, and community leadership through workshops, mock council meetings, and hands-on projects. Organizers say the Veterans Parkway installation reflects the class’s mission: preserving local history while inspiring civic pride and future leadership in Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY – ASK THE EDITORS:
Q: I LOVE YOUR ECLECTIC FREE BULLETIN BOARD. DO YOU PUBLISH EVERYTHING YOU RECEIVE? —- AMY POLAN, HERMOSA BEACH
A: No, Amy, in fact, if we did, and MB Weekly would be 10 times longer. We receive an average of 200-400 bulletin board submissions per week and publish approximately 25. Why, you ask? Well, frankly, many are repetitive, some are obscene, a few are blithering insanities, and then, of course, we have space considerations.
Feel free to send in your submissions, Amy too: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
LISTEN TO THE PEOPLE…:
Read MB Weekly
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1. ** I agree with Paul Wafer. The City needs to be governed more responsibly fiscally for the benefit of all residents. —- Vida Holguin
2. ** Sounds exactly like what I’d expect from California: remove the consequences for bad behavior, take good behavior for granted, and then act shocked when bad behavior becomes the norm. Civilization only works when standards matter, accountability exists, and common sense isn’t treated like a radical idea. —- Boris C., El Segundo
3. ** Yet another multibillion-dollar business, construction company KB Homes, is leaving California for Arizona. Between 2011 and 2021, 789 corporate headquarters and 1,884 businesses left the state! California’s Democratic leadership has fueled this business exodus with excessive taxes and regulations. —- TJF, Manhattan Beach
4. ** My mom passed away on her 92nd birthday, Feb. 2, 2023 – a day I’ll never forget. As I sorted through her belongings, I discovered loving notes she’d hidden for me in books, cookbooks, and even tin cans. Those little messages became unexpected gifts of comfort, warmth, and love during a very difficult time. —- Hazel T., Hermosa Beach
5. ** The idea of an MB Weekly book club is wonderful, and I look forward to joining. —- Alice W.
6. ** A 1-year-old boy and his uncle are dead after a horrific Playa del Rey hit-and-run allegedly involving Moises Santiago Rodriguez Leiva, who reportedly already had two outstanding DUI warrants. Another heartbreaking reminder that when repeat offenders stay on the streets, innocent families pay the ultimate price. Some lessons come far too late. —- Ezra T., El Segundo
7. ** Starbucks is laying off 300 corporate workers and shutting regional offices. Does that sound like a company thriving? Maybe the “Third Place” became the “Last Resort.” When customer experience declines, loyalty follows. —- Jermaine P.
8. ** Why do I never see any police in downtown Manhattan Beach? —- Roger A., Manhattan Beach
9. ** Forgive me but Manhattan Beach was never meant to be governed by career politicians. After 12 years in office, Howorth and Lesser now seek 16. The longer politicians stay, the closer they grow to City Hall insiders and special interests. Eventually, accountability fades, independence weakens, and residents stop coming first. Eight years is enough. —- Name Withheld by Request
10. ** I wanted to inform anyone who qualifies. My job is hiring for Clinical Directors, Case Managers, and Mental Health Workers. The name is Victory Starts Now. You may go on Indeed. We are also hiring for LVN and Medical Assistant positions. If you are a case manager, we also need a bilingual CM. Please reach out to Carlos@vsnhouse.org
11. ** So, why aren’t we seeking Charter City status? Am I misinformed that, if we are a Charter City, we regulate building/construction? —- Lynn Harris
12. ** We have a very dependable and good caregiver who took care of my father for a few years. He’s in Memory care now, so I’m hoping she can stay in the neighborhood. If anyone is interested, please call me at 310-213-1199.
13. ** Immensely proud of Nancy Boynton Franklin for her selection out of thousands of submissions by the highly successful “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series! Please join her for her premier reading at “Pages” bookstore on June 3rd. There will also be a video of the event that inspired her writing! Please come by! —- Joe Franklin, Manhattan Beach
14. ** The Mira Costa High School Orchestras, led by Peter Park, alongside Manhattan Beach Middle School Orchestras under Denise Haslop, will perform at the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall on June 25, 2026. The evening includes the world premiere of a new work by Jonathan Beard. Tickets are now on sale! —- MBUSD
15. ** Ever wonder why we don’t have many homeless people in our city? It’s because of the hard work of MBSAFE. Please join their group and keep them strong by doing good things for people experiencing homelessness. —- Joe Franklin, Manhattan Beach
16. ** Congratulations to Mira Costa junior Hugh Saetia for winning first place in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for California’s 36th District. His powerful piece, Denial, will hang in the United States Capitol for one year. Beyond his artistic brilliance, Hugh’s nonprofit Eternal Canvas reflects remarkable compassion and service. —- MBUSD
17. ** Torrance proudly celebrated its 64th annual Armed Forces Day Parade this weekend, honoring the brave men and women who serve our nation while also recognizing America’s 250th birthday. Thousands lined the streets to salute the United States Marine Corps, this year’s featured branch, in the nation’s longest-running Department of Defense-sanctioned municipal parade. —- Editor’s Note
18. ** Mira Costa librarian Mrs. Forier needs our help in June to check students’ textbooks in. No experience is necessary. Jobs may include checking in textbooks, putting them in the proper places, and assisting students in ensuring their accounts are clear. Please sign up for available slots in the Sign Up Genius. —- Mira Costa High School
19. ** Teachers’ unions endlessly lecture America about “putting students first,” yet a new report suggests the AFT and NEA may be far more interested in political activism than classroom excellence. Parents want better reading, writing, math, discipline, and safer schools – not endless partisan crusades funded by teachers’ dues. —- Dr. Julianna H.
20. ** Regretfully, I am forced to leave my beloved South Bay for greener pastures. Regretfully, I must also leave my fantastic part-time caregiver and my wonderful housekeeper. Give me a call if you are interested in hiring either one so I can put you in touch with them, – 310-375-6519 —- P.N.
21. ** The new movie – Michael – is a THRILLER! Non-stop fun! —- Carly C., Hermosa Beach
22. ** KISS founder Paul Stanley comes to Manhattan Beach: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1694046135076588
23. ** Let’s be neighborly! If you agree, ask your friends/family in LA to vote for the candidate who lost his house, who is on a mission to be the next Mayor of LA. We need the City of Los Angeles to be a place to enjoy again, like the South Bay and other communities. —- Signed, The Wizard
24. ** There is a specific correct temperature for a toilet seat. Too hot or too cold is very uncomfortable for different reasons. —- Dan B., Manhattan Beach
25. ** Let’s hope Joe Franklin finally shows some strength this term. —- S.H., Manhattan Beach
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