Stephen S. Winkler is escorted from the dias June 18 after the board voted to vacate his seat on grounds he did not maintain a residence in the school district, as state law requires.
The following statement was released Wednesday by Saugus Union School District Superintendent Joan Lucid:
Due to recent developments, it appears a special election for the remaining two year term of Mr. (Stephen S.) Winkler will not take place this November 2013. The Saugus Union School District Board of Trustees submitted an election resolution to the Los Angeles County Office of Education in early July requesting that the County Superintendent process its request for a special election to fill the seat of Stephen Winkler.
The Board had declared the seat vacant upon learning that Mr. Winkler did not reside within the district. Los Angeles County Office of Education believes the district should take further action in pursuing a request for special election or appointment.
In light of the Los Angeles County Office of Education’s position, the Board has authorized its legal counsel to initiate quo warranto proceedings against Mr. Winkler that may include contact with Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office. The Board will continue to work with legal counsel to resolve the election issue and keep the public informed as to next steps.
On November 5, 2013, only three seats will be up for election currently held by Doug Bryce, Paul De la Cerda, and Judy Umeck.
County Office Rejects Saugus Request for Election to Fill Winkler Seat
