The recent letter by former Mayor Kevin McKeown brings to mind the old axiom about people who live in glass houses. Mr. McKeown, who abruptly resigned from the City Council before completing his term, forfeited any moral authority to lecture others about public service. His decision to abandon his post midstream four years ago, citing advanced age as the reason for his resignation, raises serious questions about his credibility in criticizing Mayor Lana Negrete’s call for accountability and respect for the office he once held.
For him to attack Mayor Negrete, a leader who shows up, listens, and does the hard work, is the height of hypocrisy. Mayor Negrete has consistently demonstrated the integrity, courage, and responsiveness that Santa Monica needs. She asks difficult questions, challenges complacency, and insists that city staff and councilmembers be accountable to the public. That is not a “meltdown.” That is responsible leadership.
Mr. McKeown’s bitterness toward a mayor who strives to rebuild trust within the community says more about his own legacy than hers.
Santa Monica deserves a higher standard of public discourse, one grounded in facts, fairness, and respect for those entrusted to lead and represent the community they serve. Mayor Negrete’s steady commitment to transparency, public safety, and balanced growth continues to earn the trust and confidence of residents citywide.
Eve Lopez
Santa Monica Resident