SACRAMENTO – Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) today announced he has appointed Chula Vista City Councilmember Steve Padilla to the California Coastal Commission and reappointed Commissioner Carole Groom.
Padilla, a Democrat, serves on the Chula Vista City Council. He was first elected in 1994 and served two terms. In 2002, he was elected Mayor, serving until 2006. He previously served as a member of the California Coastal Commission from 2005-2007. He replaces San Diego County Supervisor Greg Cox, whose term expired.
“Our coast is one of California’s greatest environmental and economic resources, and one that should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone in our state,” Rendon said. “Commissioner Padilla brings a unique combination of experience and forward thinking that will help the Commission exercise its critical role. I am also pleased that this appointment brings an increased diversity to the Commission, which will help it better represent all Californians.”
Padilla fills a commission seat designated for a county supervisor, city councilmember, or mayor from the San Diego Coast Region. His name was submitted to Speaker Rendon for consideration from a list compiled by the City Selection Committee of San Diego County.
Commissioner Carole Groom, a member of the San Mateo County Supervisors, is currently serving in a seat designated for a county supervisor, city councilmember, or mayor from the Central Coast region. She was first appointed to the Coastal Commission in 2012. She is a Democrat.
“In her service on the Commission, Supervisor Groom has been an effective advocate for the coast and a champion of accessibility – both in terms of the coast and the commission itself,” Rendon said. “I am pleased that Commissioner Groom will continue her outstanding service on behalf of the coast and the Californians who enjoy it.”
These are four-year terms. Commissioners receive $50 per meeting and $12.50 per hour in preparation, not to exceed 8 hours per meeting, as well as actual and necessary expenses.
The Coastal Commission implements the California Coastal Act of 1976 and regulates the use of land and water in the coastal zone, including development and other actions that impact public access to coastal waters.