Anaheim councilwoman seeks probe of mayor's alleged remarks

Anaheim Councilwoman Natalie Meeks called for an immediate investigation into allegations that Mayor Ashleigh Aitken used a racist term toward her chief of staff and questioned her perceived sexuality, Voice of OC reported.

The allegations have drawn public criticism at Anaheim City Hall and calls from residents, activists and Santa Ana Councilwoman Jessie Lopez for the city to investigate.

According to Voice of OC, Meeks made the request during Tuesday night’s Anaheim City Council meeting after TimesOC reported that a confidential mediation letter sent on behalf of Berenice Ballinas accused Aitken of racist remarks and repeated comments about Ballinas’ perceived sexuality.

Anaheim Councilwoman Natalie Meeks said, "I feel like I need to address the really serious allegations that have been made against the mayor. I would like to direct the staff to immediately start an investigation on those and expedite that investigation" Meeks also said the city owed the community a serious response and that she would join calls for resignation if the allegations were found true, while saying the matter needed an investigation.

Anaheim City Attorney Rob Fabela said a process was in place for personnel investigations, according to Voice of OC. The outlet reported it filed a public records request for Ballinas’ letter, but the city had not formally responded or released it at the time of publication.

Aitken said she was limited in what she could say about the matter and pointed to her record. "Of course, I will readily and truthfully participate in any way that I am asked going forward." Aitken said from the dais Tuesday.

Voice of OC reported that residents and activists condemned the allegations and criticized City Hall’s transparency. David Duran, an Anaheim resident and homeless advocate, said, "Mexican and Latino families are not a lesser class of residents in Anaheim. Our neighborhoods are not less deserving of respect and civil rights. Our communities are not political props whose dignity matters only when our votes are needed."

Aitken is seeking reelection against Dr. Imran Sharief and Alfredo Rodriguez, according to Voice of OC.