Carlsbad Voters To Select New Mayor In Upcoming Election

CARLSBAD, CA — Carlsbad voters will take to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 8, to select a new mayor, city treasurer and city clerk while voters who reside in City Council Districts 1 and 3 will also cast votes for their representatives on the dais.

Two people qualified to run for the position of mayor. Current Carlsbad Mayor Matt Hall did not file nomination paperwork, according to the city's election website.

Following the end of the nomination period, current District 2 Council Member and Mayor Pro Tem Keith Blackburn, along with retired businessman Michael Curtin, qualified to run for mayor. Both will appear on the ballot.

In Carlsbad’s District 1, technology professional and community advocate Anthony Bona, mental health therapist Melanie Burkholder, small-business owner DeeDee Trejo-Rowlett, retiree Allen J. Manzano, anti-corruption attorney Sam Ward and healthcare worker Cory Geigert, all qualified for the ballot.

Current District 1 Council Member Peder Norby did not file nomination paperwork, according to the city's election website.

Incumbent Priya Bhat-Patel is being challenged for her seat representing District 3 by Ray Pearson, a businessman and trustee with Carlsbad Unified School District.

Incumbent Treasurer Craig J. Lindholm has qualified for the ballot and will face off against retiree Lance Shulte.

Sherry Freisinger was the only person who qualified for the city clerk election. Despite being the only name on the ballot, city officials said they would still hold an election for the position which is currently vacant.

Voters in Carlsbad will also determine whether to spend existing city funds for the Monroe Street Pool Renovation/Replacement Project.

Should voters approve the ballot measure, known as Measure J, the city could spend an estimated $22 to $24 million to renovate and replace the pool at 3401 Monroe Street.

According to city officials, the project would extend the life of the facility by replacing the pool, improving the pool deck, locker room building, mechanical building and expanding the parking area as well as improve on amenities currently offered.

The City Clerk's office is responsible for conducting all municipal elections.

For more information visit the city's website.