LongBeachReport.com | LBReport.com | Hear 7th dist. Council Runoff/WLB Debate: Uranga & Johnson Oppose 710 Double-Decking & Expanding WLB Railyards; Re Revised SE LB Land Swap Johnson Opposes While Uranga Says She May Support

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(May 17, 2010) -- In contrasting tones in their second runoff debate, 7th Councilwoman Tonia Reyes Uranga and challenger Assistant City Auditor James Johnson both opposed proposals that could put elevated truck "freightways" (double-decking) along an expanded 710 freeway and expand WLB-adjacent railyards.

During the May 16 debate arranged by LB's Interfaith Community Organization at St. Lucy's Catholic Church (Santa Fe Ave/23rd St.), the candidates showed some distance between themselves on city management's proposed revision to the SE LB open space-wetlands/Public Service Yard land swap (agendized for May 18 and separately reported by LBReport.com).

Assistant City Auditor Johnson said he continues to oppose the transaction, citing costs and potential exposures.

Councilwoman Reyes Uranga indicated that although she voted against the transaction in August 2009 (5-4 Council vote), the new revisions to the deal may cause her to support the item this Tuesday (May 18)...but said she'll seek further information from city management before deciding.

In a runoff election with implications beyond the 7th district (the winner will have a Council vote on issues citywide), LBReport.com provides on-demand audio access to the debate below. To hear salient portions, click links below:

To hear the debate in full, click here

Vote-by-mail ballots are already flying in the June 8 runoff election in which 7th district residents will choose a Council representative...with decisionmaking powers affecting residents citywide.

Related LBReport.com coverage:

7th dist. Councilwoman Tonia Reyes Uranga vs. Challenger/Ass't City Auditor James Johnson @ CSULB Law Society Forum

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