Four people vying to replace San Diego city attorney Mike Aguirre debated today about how they'd run the office differently. Aguirre was a no-show. The five are competing in a primary election in June. KPBS reporter Andrew Phelps has more.
City Councilman Brian Maienschein says Aguirre is a reckless litigator who abuses his independence.
Maienschein : I think we do need an independent city attorney, but having said that, I think there needs to be a check on the city attorney.
Former judge Jan Goldsmith says the city attorney represents the city, not the people, but would not be afraid to stand up to officials.
Council president Scott Peters says the city attorney should solve problems, not create them.
Peters : Things have gotten so bad now I think we've lost our imagination about what a city attorney's office could be. I think a law firm is a good first step, but we could go beyond that and make it a problem-solving entity and really move the city forward.
Former deputy city attorney Amy Lepine says she's the only outsider in the race, and that she'd be neither an attack dog nor a lap dog.
Andrew Phelps, KPBS News.
