Ewin vs. Madrid: Council Meeting Heats Up Over Payments

La Mesa Mayor Art Madrid and Councilmember Ernie Ewin butted heads again at the council meeting Tuesday, which resulted in hints and jabs concerning the mayoral contest in 2014 that were published at La Mesa Today:

" 'He won't run,' Madrid says of Ewin. 'He doesn't have the (nerve). He would lose.' 

"When asked if he is contemplating a more formal contest with Madrid, Ewin smiles.

" 'We'll see,' he said."

Ewin started the meeting off by claiming "veiled threats and bullying'' by the Mayor by Freedom of Information Act requests (FOIA). He presented documents that had been requested by Madrid through FOIA concerning more than $40,000 in per diem payments that Ewin had earned over more than a decade attending meetings on behalf of the City La Mesa. These kind of payments are a regular part of governmental meetings.

From La Mesa Today:

"But Madrid said he was gathering the information to make a point about Ewin, who he accused of leading a cabal of local residents and council members who were trying to stymie the mayor's initiatives for personal political reasons. He pointed to what he said were recent collaborations between Ewin, City Councilwoman Kristine Alessio and members of the La Mesa Citizens Oversight Group, a self-appointed watchdog group, to criticize the mayor's travels and participation in intergovernmental groups."

Madrid said that Ewin had not been representing the city well on the boards and committees for which had been receiving payments.

Ewin told La Mesa Today that "a different approach to government" was the reason behind the feud, that Madrid holds a grudge with certain people and organizations.