Laguna Beach : Recall Target Seeks Debate on School Issues

Carl E. Schwarz, one of three Laguna Beach Unified school board members targeted for recall, on Wednesday called for a series of debates before the Sept. 22 election.

“This special election is going to cost the schools thousands of dollars, and the community should at least get its money’s worth,” Schwarz said. “The issues should be discussed.”

Schwarz said that while he is not sure who will file against him, “I want to debate the candidate or candidates face to face and at different parts of the community so that everyone can have an opportunity to attend the debates.”

Schwarz, a Fullerton College political science instructor who has been on the school board since 1981, proposed topics for six separate debates: school curriculum; instruction and staffing; boardsmanship and administration; community relations and involvement; substance abuse, and health education.

Schwarz, board President Charlene Ragatz and board member Janet Vickers will face the voters in the election. They were targeted for recall after a citizens’ group became angry over their vote last fall to reinstate football coach Cedrick Hardman after Hardman had been arrested a second time on drug-related charges.

Registrar of Voters Alvin E. Olson said candidates have until July 16 to file.