"Knowing Lagunans as I do, I know that we share a respect for our history, a strong sense of community, and a willingness to participate in thoughtful planning for our future. Our shared values will be a source of strength in continuing to meet the challenges we face."
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Whalen fundraiser
City Councilman Kelly Boyd hosted a fundraiser for Whalen at the Marine Room on April 19.
"As a council member, I would love to see this guy sitting next to me on the dais," said Boyd. "The best thing would be to have two guys up there."
The event was billed as a meet and greet, but more than 90 people paid $25 to chat with Whalen and mingle with other Whalen supporters — including architect David Parker and Laguna Beach High School Principal Joanne Culverhouse, two nonresidents who can't vote here.
"I came down here to run for the council, but I have decided I am going to open a bar," Whalen joked. "It is great to see so many familiar faces.
"So why am I running? The hours are long, you are underpaid and half the town always hates you."
The flip side is that half the town loves you — and duty calls.
"I am running because I love this community," Whalen added.
And the town needs good people to keep it great, Whalen said. He ran for the school board to help fix its financial problems following the county bankruptcy. Whalen is an attorney who specializes in public agency financing.
As a councilman, Whalen said he would focus on a stable financial platform.
"I think I have something to contribute, some skills and a thick skin developed on the school board," Whalen said.
He asked his supporters to volunteer in his campaign.
"Talk to friends and neighbors," he said. "Host small neighborhood events."
