Boardman announces candidacy

Connie Boardman, a former Huntington Beach mayor, announced this afternoon that she is running for City Council, citing dissatisfaction with the city’s current leadership and what she perceives as its indifference to residents’ needs.

Boardman, who did not seek reelection after her term ended in 2004, has joined together with fellow candidates Joe Shaw and Blair Farley to run as Team Huntington Beach. Shaw, a former planning and public works commissioner, and Farley, a planning commissioner, plan to introduce Boardman as their running mate at a fundraiser this evening at the home of former Mayor Debbie Cook.

Boardman said she pulled her nomination papers this afternoon and will turn them in to the city clerk’s office Friday .

“We have, between us, many years of civic involvement and experience,” she said. “I think one of our main goals is to be responsive to the residents of Huntington Beach and listen to their concerns.”

She said she felt the current council had often ignored residents’ opinions, particularly in July when it approved a housing development on the Bolsa Chica Mesa despite numerous protests.

“The council has really changed from when I was on it,” Boardman said. “We worked hard to treat the public with respect regardless of their viewpoint, and I don’t see it with this council. I didn’t see it that night.”

Shaw, who leads all candidates in fundraising in the council race so far, said he would be proud to have Boardman’s name next to his on campaign literature.

“Ever since I’ve been in Huntington Beach, I’ve seen Connie as one of the leaders,” he said. “I’ve always supported the things she does and the things she believes in. I’m honored to be on the ticket with her.”

Candidates have until Friday to officially file paperwork to run for the council.