CM4RG endorses Foley, Humphrey for council

Costa Mesans for Responsible Government has endorsed two of its own for Costa Mesa City Council.

Former council members Katrina Foley and Jay Humphrey received endorsements Friday from the grass-roots, nonpartisan group known for its opposition to the current City Council majority.

Over several meetings, a CM4RG committee interviewed the candidates. Then, at a general meeting Thursday, members cast a secret ballot, with Foley and Humphrey coming out on top.

“Both Katrina Foley and Jay Humphrey have proven ability to bring considerable experience to city government, and we look forward to seeing them on the City Council,” CM4RG President Robin Leffler said in a prepared statement.

She said the endorsement process was “long and thorough. Numerous volunteers gave up big chunks of their time to participate in the process. I want to recognize and praise that effort.”

The committee also interviewed candidates Harold Weitzberg, a businessman and CM4RG member, and Tony Capitelli, a field representative for U.S. Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Costa Mesa).

Candidate Lee Ramos, a longtime resident and retired print shop owner, received an invitation but did not respond, Leffler said.

Mayor Jim Righeimer is also running for reelection.

Christopher Bunyan, a hairstylist who also works in advertising, and Al Melone, a retired accountant, are the other two announced candidates.

Two seats are open. Councilwoman Wendy Leece is termed out.

Foley, a trustee with the Newport-Mesa Unified School District, last served on the council from 2004 to 2010. She left after getting elected to the school board.

Humphrey served one term on the council from 1990 to 1994. Before running for council, Humphrey served as CM4RG treasurer.

—Bradley Zint

Twitter: @bradleyzint