Poll: How should the fifth school board member be chosen?

By Doug Spoon, Editor

The Menifee Union School District Board's decision to interview the four qualified candidates and appoint its choice for the Area 5 Trustee has prompted an angry response from those who believe the vote has been taken away from the people.

Unfortunately, the vote was taken away from the people when William Hoag allegedly used an illegal address to run for the position. Because of an investigation into his conduct and his subsequent withdrawal from the race, a total of 2,119 votes cast for him have in essence been wasted. Now the issue becomes, who is selected for that position and how?

Although it would seem to be the best solution, holding a new election is not practical. The cost and logistics are prohibitive, and it's not going to happen. There's no use continuing to debate that issue. What is open for debate is the decision of the current board members to interview the four remaining candidates and appoint the selection of their choice.

To refresh your memory, here is the list of the four qualified candidates:

-- Kenyon Jenkins, who received the second most votes with 1,302.

-- Debbi Manion, who received 1,271 votes.

-- Jerry Bowman, who held the position the last 10 years. He received 886 votes.

-- Joe Long, who received 546 votes.

Because a new election will not be held, we want to at least give our readers the opportunity to make their voice heard in this unofficial poll. Which of these candidates do you believe the board should appoint, or do you believe they should choose someone else, which is their right?

We urge voters who live in Trustee Area 5 to participate in our poll, and we especially hope those who voted for William Hoag will re-cast their vote for one of these qualified candidates. Those who live outside Area 5 are invited to vote if they are familiar with the issues and want to make their voice heard.

To vote in our poll, click on the link below and view the results as they are updated. Thank you for your participation.

Menifee 24/7 poll: School board selection