running for reelection in 2026
Greatness - stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and laid-back island charm.
Concerns - water scarcity, infrastructure development, affordable housing, and tourism management.
Biggest employer - Catalina Island Company (hospitality)
term ends Nov. 2026, not seeking reelection
Greatness - vibrant arts scene, world-class shopping, and dynamic food and craft beer culture
Concerns - public safety, homelessness, overdevelopment, cannabis dispensaries zoning, affordable housing, fiscal responsibility, governance transparency
Largest employers - Experian, education, tech, medical, Auto Club, financial and tax services
the mayoral position is selected annually by the city council members.
Greatness - “Surf City”, 10 miles of pristine sandy beaches, the pier, shops, restaurants, Marathon, US Open of Surfing, tourism.
Concerns - local control, housing mandates, local voter ID, fiscal and governance concerns
Largest employers - Boeing, Cambro Manufacturing, hospitality, large retail, other manufacturing
the mayoral position is selected annually by the city council members.
Greatness - blend of small town charm and coastal access, Mayberry By The Sea, the pier.
Concerns - public safety, housing laws vs infrastructure limitation, tenant regulations, homelessness, local governance and financial oversight
Largest employers - Boeing, Magtek, Siemens Medical Solutions, Navy
the mayoral position is selected annually by the city councilmembers.
Greatness - stunning panoramic views, trails and parks, oil production, Unity Monument, art.
Concerns - public transparency, oil drilling
Largest employer - large retail: Office Depot, Home Depot, Costco, Target....
Mayor Rex Richardson, seeking reelection in 2026
Greatness - coastal location, port, cultural diversity, urban development
Concerns - budget and fiscal challenges, public safety, economic development
Largest employers - education, healthcare, Boeing
the mayoral position is selected annually by the city council members.
Greatness - Pelican Point entrance to Crystal Cove State Park, stunning coastline, the harbor, The Wedge, Balboa Island, OCMA, Fashion Island, Sherman Library and Gardens
Concerns - local control, housing mandates, governance
Largest employers - healthcare, property and investment management, semiconductors, education
Not yet officially up for reelection. The nomination period is from Aug. 10 and Sept. 10 this year with the November election.
Greatness - vibrant art and culture, museums, DTSA, 4th Street Market, Parks, cultural festivals
Concerns - housing costs, budget, public safety, immigration, infrastructure, utility costs
Largest employers - education, healthcare, City of Santa Ana, UPS
Offers extensive career education, including:
Automotive Technology: Options for technicians, electric vehicles, and smog inspection.
Welding Technology: Fabrication, pipe welding, and various welding processes.
Construction & Skilled Trades: Noncredit courses and pre-apprenticeship programs (e.g., HVAC, plumbing).
Digital Media Center: Specialized training in TV/video and digital arts.
Manufacturing Technology: Specialized training for industry roles.
Offers comprehensive CTE programs at its Trade Tech and Community Learning Campus.
Construction & Fabrication: Construction Technology, Welding, Metal Fabrication.
Electrical & HVAC: Electrical Technology (automation, solar, industrial) and HVACR.
Transportation: Automotive Technology, Diesel/Heavy Duty Truck, Marine Electrical.
Other: Architectural Design, Horticulture, and Culinary Arts.
Building & Construction Trades: Construction Technology, HVACR Technology, and Welding Technology.
Aviation & Transportation: Aviation Maintenance Technology (Airframe & Powerplant), Avionics, and Helicopter Theory.
Manufacturing & Engineering: Manufacturing Technology, Electronics Technology, and Engineering.
Marine & Specialized: Professional Mariner Program.
Design & Media: Architectural Technology, Digital Media Arts and Design, and Interior Design.
Automotive Technology: Programs include auto collision repair, general technician, engine performance, fleet technician, and specialized programs like Ford or General Motors training.
Welding: Offerings include arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, pipe welding, and fabrication.
Woodworking Manufacturing Technologies (WMT): Focuses on cabinetmaking, furniture making, and CNC woodworking.
Machine Tool Technology (MTT): Trains for CNC operator, machinist, and tool and die maker roles.
Engineering Design Technology (ENGT): Covers drafting and design.
Cosmetology & Esthetician: Training for beauty industry licensing.
Apprenticeships: Paid on-the-job training in construction, such as Field Ironwork, Painters, and Women in Construction.
Electrician Trainee Program: Covers residential and non-residential electrical work
Automotive Technology: Includes general automotive, Toyota T-TEN, and collision repair.
Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC): Offers training in HVAC/R, automated building controls, and energy systems.
Engineering Technology: Focuses on Mechatronics, Robotics, and CAD.
Health Sciences: Programs include Dental Assisting, Radiologic Technology, Psychiatric Technology, and Nursing.
Other Technical Fields: Aviation & Travel Careers, Commercial Music & Recording Arts, Culinary Arts, and Computer Information Systems