The San Diego City Council named a new council president Monday afternoon after current president Tony Young announced he would be leaving for a job with the Red Cross.
Now-President Todd Gloria began officiating Monday’s council meeting after members of the public and the council announced their support of Gloria as Young’s replacement. His presidency was unanimously approved after each councilmember expressed their admiration and trust in Gloria.
Gloria was elected in 2008 and re-elected this past June. He represents District 3, which spans across Hillcrest, City Heights and Mission Hills. He’s a third-generation resident in the area.
“It gets me tired just watching him,” Young said of Gloria’s commitment to various groups and causes in his district.
Gloria, likewise, spoke kindly of Young.
"I have big shoes to fill. Mr. Young elevated the role of Council President greatly, and the entire City has benefited," he said Monday afternoon.
Councilwoman Sherri Lightner commended his parents, who attended the meeting and listened tearfully to the support of her son’s colleagues on the council.
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The council’s two newest members also spoke fondly of Gloria.
"It's going to be an interesting -- and dare I say fun – four years," said newly sworn in councilmember Mark Kersey of his upcoming term with Gloria.
Young announced he was leaving last month to be CEO of the American Red Cross of San Diego/Imperial Counties. His departure not only resulted in the appointment of a new council president – San Diegans in District 4 will have to elect a new representative. That election will take place within 90 days of his vacancy.
The Registrar of Voters estimated that the election would cost upwards of $350,000 dollars, unless it's consolidated with a special State Senate election, such as the one to fill Juan Vargas’ seat.
