Anaheim releases claim against mayor alleging harassment

Anaheim released a 25-page claim alleging Mayor Ashleigh Aitken was repeatedly intoxicated during city business, made racist and homophobic remarks, harassed her chief of staff and retaliated after concerns were reported, according to Voice of OC.

The allegations touch Anaheim city operations, Disneyland-related events and a mayoral election that is about a month away, Voice of OC reported. City officials said an independent investigation is expected to proceed over the next few months.

Berenice Ballinas, Aitken’s chief of staff since 2022, filed the claim after being placed on leave in July, Voice of OC reported. The city released the document as part of a special closed-session City Council agenda with what Anaheim city spokesman Mike Lyster called "limited redactions."

The claim alleges Ballinas saw Aitken drunk or appearing intoxicated on city business multiple times. It also alleges Aitken called Ballinas "a dirty Mexican" in Jim Vanderpool’s presence and referred to God as "her imaginary friend," according to Voice of OC.

In one passage, the claim says, "City leadership, officials, employees, elected officials, governmental colleagues, and outside stakeholders were well aware of the Mayor’s alcohol consumption and her resulting condition and behavior from their own personal observations," according to Voice of OC. The claim also says Ballinas repeatedly raised concerns to city leaders but senior officials minimized the situation.

Voice of OC reported that the claim describes an April 2025 City Council meeting where Ballinas alleged Aitken appeared "visibly impaired by alcohol." It also describes a June 10 visit to Club 33 and the 1901 Lounge at Disney California Adventure where the claim alleges Aitken questioned Ballinas’ sexuality and a Disney Cast Member’s sexuality after a three-hour lunch.

Lyster said in a Thursday email to Voice of OC, "Anaheim takes all claims seriously. Our process is moving forward, with engagement of an independent, experienced investigator expected to be finalized soon. An independent investigation is expected to take place over the next few months," He also said, "We are looking for a comprehensive, impartial review that balances expediency with due process. Beyond that, we want to respect all involved and will share any additional updates as appropriate."

Aitken did not respond to Voice of OC’s request for comment Thursday morning, the outlet reported, while noting she has previously denied allegations that she made racist and homophobic insults. Voice of OC included an editor’s note that Aitken’s father, Wylie Aitken, chairs the outlet’s board of directors.

The Anaheim City Council is scheduled to discuss the claim behind closed doors at a special meeting at 9 a.m. the day after Voice of OC’s publication.