Longtime Resident, Volunteer Announces Council Bid

Kathy Zechmeister has been going to bat for Lake Forest since...well, since it was still El Toro.

From pushing for incorporation to participating each year in the city's Fourth of July festivities, the 25-year resident has been heavily involved in Lake Forest activities.

Now, Zechmeister plans to run in the November election for City Council.

Until recently, city governance appeared to run smoothly, she explained to Patch in a phone interview.

"I've thought about [running for council before] but everything seemed to be flowing well," she said. "All the sudden, it changed."

Attending recent City Council meetings persuaded Zechmeister it's time for some new leadership.

"Their decisions appear to be emotionally based rather than factually or logically based, from my perspective," she said. "There's also a lack of respect among the sitting council members."

A recent decision by the City Council to  in favor of a slightly less expensive contract clinched Zechmeister's belief that city leaders were forging ahead in the wrong direction.

"I didn't think it was handled well, and I didn't feel it was professionally done," she said. "The council has to be run like a business."

Zechmeister's business experience is in the arena of property management.

As a volunteer, she has raised five puppies for Guide Dogs of America, participated in community focus groups for the redevelopment of El Toro Road and local parks, volunteered at the city's 4th of July celebrations and with the Kiwanis Club and Chamber of Commerce, served in various positions on her homeowners association and helped shape the Foothill Ranch community through her work position.

"I've lived here for 25 years and Lake Forest is my home," she said. "I participate in civic activities and want to give back to my community."

Zechmeister said her "fresh perspective, focused goals and logical decision- making" will benefit Lake Forest residents. She also pledged to ensure government transparency and serve the community "selflessly," pushing along major city projects and promoting the "community vision" of Lake Forest.

Her announcement pushes the total number of potential candidates for the two seats opening up on the five-member council this fall to three.

Former Planning Commissioner  and longtime resident  (who successfully propelled now-Mayor Pro Tem Scott Voigts to a council seat) have both announced that they plan to fight for a seat at the dais.

On Sunday, Zechmeister is hosting a casual get-together for supporters at Bagels & Brew.

Where/When: , 21771 Lake Forest Drive, Suite 100; Sunday, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Why Go: Zechmeister plans to run for a seat on the Lake Forest City Council in the November election. This is a chance to see if she's the candidate for you.

Pricing: Free