Council Deadlock Bounces Gaasterland from SANDAG

On January 6, the City Council deadlocked 2-2 on the appointment of a Councilmember to sit on the SANDAG board. Gaasterland asserted that “continuity and longevity” and the strong constructive relationships she says she has developed at SANDAG were reasons why she should continue in the role. Mayor Tracy Martinez asserted that Gaasterland promised on the record, when last year’s appointment was made, that she would not seek appointment again this year. Councilmember Spelich noted that Gaasterland did not get any votes when she ran for a SANDAG leadership position. Councilmember Quirk indicated he would support Gaasterland.

Though traditionally Councilmembers have not voted for themselves for appointment to a position that carries a stipend, Gaasterland made it clear she would vote in this case. With a 2-2 split, the Council did not have majority support for any appointment. As a result, Del Mar’s seat on the SANDAG board will be vacant until the Council can resolve this impasse.