Councilman Dave Allan Is Hailed on Surprise Decision to Step Down in 2012

Two potential candidates for La Mesa City Council praised Dave Allan in the wake of his surprise announcement Tuesday not to run for re-election in 2012.

Ian Shiff, a first-time council candidate in 2010, and Laura Lothian, who came within six percentage points of upsetting Art Madrid in the mayoral race, on Wednesday shared their reactions when contacted by Patch.

“I think Dave [has] made an altruistic choice in not running for another term,” Lothian said. “I think it’s his way of letting new voices have a say in La Mesa’s future.”

Said Shiff: “It's unfortunate that the council will be without someone who understands the inner workings of our fire/police departments in the county like Dave Allan did. None of the announced candidates would be able to fill that void if elected.

“I wish Mr. Allan the best and I am sure he will still be very involved in local politics.”

Lothian said she too was surprised by Allan’s decision not to seek a fourth term on the council, adding: “He's very likable; every time I run into him at an event or function, I enjoy our conversations.”

She also responded to remarks by Councilwoman Ruth Sterling, who in comments Tuesday night rapped Lothian for not attending council meetings.

“As far as Ruth’s comments go, I attend meetings as my schedule allows,” Lothian said. “I do have a full-time career, serve on four commissions and still have kids at home.”

Lothian didn’t commit to a 2012 race, but said that if she ran for council and was elected, “I would reduce/cease my commission post obligations, ease my workload and never miss a meeting.”

But she called Allan’s decision to step down “positive news for any challenger in any race when an incumbent decides to not run for re-election.”

Has she heard about any potential candidates for 2012 besides announced candidate Jim Wieboldt—her colleague on the city Community Parking Commission?

“I haven't heard any new news about anyone else running for a council seat,” Lothian said via email. “Last year, I remember hearing the challengers all say they would run again in 2012. A lot can happen in two years; we'll see.”

Shiff, one of those challengers, said Wednesday: “As for the 2012 election, I have not decided if I will run, despite requests to do so from neighbors, friends and supporters who helped me last year. 2014 might be a better year to run for a certain office—only time and the next few years will tell.”

Wieboldt and 2010 council candidate Patrick Dean did not respond to email requests for comment on their plans.

Councilman Allan, quoted in a story posted on the Union-Tribune website, said he’ll be 57 when he steps down, and “It's been an honor, but sometimes I think elected officials stick around too long.”

Allan repeated his promise to stay involved in local civic life, telling the Union-Tribune:  “I love this city. I live in this city. I'm going to do something. I’m not leaving. Maybe Art [Madrid] will hire me on as his intern or something."