Item #5: UNION PACIFIC TRAIL PHASE TWO RECONSIDERATION (part of the national Rail to Trail project)
City Council considered Union Pacific Park trail options on August 15, 2023, and voted 3 -2 to direct staff to reapproach the California Natural Resources Agency to consider reallocating the Phase Two project grant funding to another project. Council Member Dr. Ahmad Zahra requested, supported by Council Member Dr. Shana Charles, to bring this item back for City Council consideration.
Recommendation:
- Reaffirm City Council direction from August 15, 2023, and direct the City Manager Eric Levitt to reapproach the State of California Natural Resources Agency and continue to explore an alternate project for the grant. –OR–
- Direct the City Manager to move forward with the Union Pacific Trail Phase Two project, as recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission, and appropriate $330,000 from the Park Dwelling (Fund 39) fund balance to Project 54260 Union Pacific Trail Phase Two Project in Capital Projects Fund (Fund 74).
OBSERVER NOTES: Tuesday’s agenda is a reconsideration of action (or lack thereof) on the UP Trail. On other recent bicycle-related items, the Council justified their actions based on what the “community” wanted. On Associated Road, the 30 or 40 people that showed up (and perhaps more wrote letters) mostly did not want lane reduction, partly because the staff proposal linked this with additional parking. A petition in support of the lane reduction signed by over 350 Fullerton residents presented by Dr. Tapadia has had no impact. And on Hart, the request by 9 or 10 cul-de-sac residents resulted in the removal of an existing (probably since the sixties) wall opening, which gutted a long-planned link between the depot and the University (there is one possible alternative). That route is on the City Bicycle Plan developed 10 years ago with extensive community input. And now the equally long-planned UP trail, with substantial demonstrated support from residents who live south of the tracks, is in danger of not being built.
What is the rationale for ignoring the “community” in this case?
Item #6: MAYOR / CHAIR AND MAYOR PRO TEM / VICE CHAIR APPOINTMENT
The City Council / Successor Agency / Housing Authority / Financing Authority appoints a new Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem annually.
Recommendation:
- The City Attorney conducts nominations for Mayor / Chair appointment.
- The mayor conducts nominations for Mayor Pro Tem / Vice Chair appointments.
OBSERVER NOTES: Fullerton has a fair rotation policy for selecting the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem (No. 226 in the Policy and Procedures Manual). The policy states, “The Mayor Pro Tem shall automatically become the Mayor after serving one year at Mayor Pro Tem…” (Note that this also means the Mayor will serve only one one-year term). The other significant element in this policy is that selection is based on seniority according to the number of years a member has served consecutively on the city council without serving as Mayor. By that standard, at the upcoming December 5 meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Bruce Whitaker should become Mayor, and Councilmember Dr. Ahmad Zahra should be selected as Pro Tem. In fairness, Zahra should have been Pro Tem and Mayor by now. But, as it turns out, this policy is advisory, and Jung, Whitaker, and Dunlap do not take advice unless it is from their bosom buddies.
After years of petty in-fighting and often passing over the women on the Council, an orderly means of selecting these officers was established and generally adhered to. At his first meeting on the Council, Fred Jung overturned this established procedure by nominating Nick Dunlap for Vice Mayor rather than Zahra or Silva, who were next in line. The following year, he became Mayor (with the support of Dunlap and Whittaker) ahead of Zahra and nominated outgoing Mayor Whittaker for Vice Mayor (apparently, Dunlap does not want either the “honor” or responsibility of being Mayor, although he is said to be running for re-election in next fall’s election). Again, we can see where this is headed.
It could be a short night (except for those who go out to celebrate the mayor’s selection), depending on public comments.
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What is the rationale for ignoring the “community” in this case?
The rational reason is that the community & council didn’t get a chance to
hear/vet all three proposals
Only the two options that park & wreck proposed
Actually there was only one option. “Pick a card, any card…”
Yes – council did have chance to vet all three options – and also had the unanimous recommendation from Parks & Rec – to approve the pedestrian/bike trail only option. But the three (Jung, Dunlap, Whitaker) chose and continue to choose to ignore the will of the public and oppose the trail.
Maybe that was an autocorrect error. It’s actually “Parks and Rec” as in short for “Recreation.”
Parks and Wreck seems to be an apt description.
Please come to CouncilChambers today (Tuesday 12.5.23 @ 5:30p – ?) and support the proper usage of the UPTrail Grant$ (AgendaItem#5)! Thank you!
The definition of what happened tonight is called a farce. The three stooges are running the council.
…to be fair, what would lead you to believe otherwise?!
Get ready for a WHOLE LOT of youth sports news!
I wanted to believe in every city council member, but after tonight, I cannot believe that the majority wants what’s best for our city. These three are holding our city back from progress in the name of cronyism.
I feel badly that Dunlap’s kids had to see what happened, but it was also odd that he so brazenly invited them, as if he knew in advance that he would be elected mayor.
Proud of my fellow Fullertonians who commented today for standing up for what is right.
Entirely my point, Amy. Their CHARACTER FLAWS fully erode PublicTrust. It’s shameful…and they have kids, no less. Twice a month, I feel like someone force-fed me a bottle of crazy pills.
I feel the same way. Their behavior is bizarre. They’re not even trying to hide it anymore, so neither will I: I encourage everyone to vote against Jung and Dunlap at next year’s election, and to vote for whichever progressive candidate runs for Whitaker’s seat. Break the stranglehold on Fullerton’s progression into the new year. Get rid of Bushala’s cronies. They have lost the right to govern us. This isn’t Bushalaville, this is the City of Fullerton!
Preach, Amy! Silence is consent…
Better watch out. The triad might limit you to 2 minutes again. Or move the comments to the end of the night.
HAHAHA Hi Kittlen!
…I can deal with that. What I will NOT swallow is this CouncilMajority silencing :my neighbors:. What they don’t understand is, I actually died. This is just “bonus time” for me. If they want to move comments to the end of the night, so be it. I’m not too good to wait, and I have the luxury that most of my neighbors don’t: I don’t have kids and don’t have to be anywhere (other than the Farmer’sMarket the following day). My presence in Chambers as a resident will EASILY outlast their corrupt time on the dais. Plus, I’m capable of staying more mentally present than Nick has repeated proven on PublicRecord, so :ding ding: game on!
That 2 minutes bullshit really pissed me off. Moving the comments to the end of the night? That was never going to fly. Starting at 5:30 instead of 6:30? That punishes parents that want to come and defend their schools from city council’s mandate to save pennies when dollars will be spent for not doing the right thing.
…to be fair, from :my: understanding, Fred is going to be running UNopposed.
*NOTE: This does NOT mean Fred is doing a “good job.” It means there are no other viable candidates. VERY massive difference. S’why I argue semantics very much matter (As in, Grant$ has VERY specific language, and you CAN’T just “use it for another project.”).
Almost wish that we could get one of the council’s most vocal and repeat critics to run against Fred Jung, unfortunately, they apparently all live in district 5 and don’t have the time, money, or endurance to be as a council member.
“time, money, or endurance”
Or maybe they just don’t have their predilection for kissing the right rear ends
Or prefer to kick rears instead of kiss them.
Yes, the three of them knew that Dunlap was going to be mayor and former mayor Jung mayor pro-tem before they even sat down to start the meeting. They didn’t even want to hear from the public about it because it was a done deal ages ago. I believe the word is “collusion.”
Did anyone notice that Zaara was nearly moved to tears over the amount of support there for him? A standing ovation from most of the people there that was probably not broadcast was what Zaara got and rightfully so, and that was probably bittersweet for the hardworking councilmember.
Dunlap used his kids as a weapon against the public in a “how dare you act like that in front of my kids!” They brought police officers in so that the public outcry could only be a dull roar instead of what they deserved – an outright riot. Hey, Nick! If you didn’t want your kids to see what was happened, why did you bring them? Oh right, you needed your victory lap and photo op with your wife and kids.
Watch. District 5 is going to get punished for speaking out against how the vote went in the next year. No roads will be fixed. The kids at Maple Elementary School will continue to live with a dangerous crosswalk, and the seniors of Rancho La Paz are going to forced out.
Poor Dr. Charles. She got dragged into this three stooges act. I hope she has the strength of will to stay the long haul because Dr. Charles and Zaara are the only two who are looking at how to better Fullerton for everyone, even the poor, and disadvantaged groups, unlike the triad and their desire to keep lining their pockets and make the 1% happier.
Dunlap used his kids as a weapon against the public in a “how dare you act like that in front of my kids!”
Except that he didn’t say that.
I’ll get his exact quote when they post the council meeting. If he’s going to use his wife and kids as a sledgehammer against people who are angry that their district is getting the short end of the stick, then he better be willing to handle the very vocal opinions of those who were bullied by him.
A sledgehammer? Really? Yeah, get the exact quote. Take a Xanax or something.
Everyone can play these language games but yeah these clearly bought hoodlums crept up behind and knifed the publicly supported bike trail at the last moment and then stuck to their guns when a reconsideration was demanded by the public.
If they’re not going to support their own bicycle master plan when money becomes available from outside grants, they’re not on my side, nor that of anyone who cares about safe cycling in Fullerton. They prefer us dead.
John, you seem to forget that Bruce is on PublicRecord saying, “I don’t like to plan. I like to react organically.” This is NOT Bruce’s MasterPlan, therefore, it’s rubbish. Not even organically compostable.
Also, I don’t understand your complaint, John. You can just ride your bike to NorthFullerton, like Bruce and his wife do. :They: are alive. What makes you feel so special that you would become a victim (Side note: Speedy recovery to JMaus) when clearly Bruce and his wife haven’t. (Heavy sarcasm, except for to JMaus)
Hoodlums. Take a Xanax yourself. You are badly overheated.
I observe that you resort to name-calling when you have run out of valid arguments.
3:29:11 of the meeting video. He didn’t say this verbatim, but he pointed out his wife and kids and said that they saw what council members have to “endure.”
In my opinion, that was a low blow. Dunlap did something that was deeply, patently unpopular, as well as against established protocol, and then effectively whined about the burden of public accountability as if he was some kind of martyr.
I’m also not sure why his family was there if he didn’t already know in advance that he was going to receive the mayoral or vice mayoral seat.
What would lead you to believe otherwise?! This CouncilMajority is allergic to: taking accountability. It’s MUCH easier for them to distract, gaslight, and/or blame others. (…this can ALL found found on PublicRecord)
Of course it was a photo op moment he was going for. He could show his kids what daddy does and how important he is. The kids got to see a blatant example of narcissism and of passing the buck and how daddy doesn’t take responsibility for his actions. He could have refused the nomination. Freddy too. Either of them could have said “you know what? It is Zahra’s turn.”
Instead, they didn’t. They showed their true colours.
No instead the kids saw a blantant example of grown people screaming and acting like fools and throwing their tantrums. As Bernard says “SHAME ON YOU!”
And why would they pass the buck to someone who is untrustworthy and shady like Zahra?
Please stop believing Zahra lies! you are starting to look pathetic. Especially bringing kids into your tantrum rant. Pretty low of you! again SHAME ON YOU!
Oh, boohoo.
Thank you for your thoughtful and insightful response. I eagerly await your longform political treatise.
David articulates quite clearly, doesn’t he?
Thank you.
What he did was very unpopular. To the 17 people in the audience. But Fullerton has, what, 160,000 people? Newsflash. You don’t speak for them.
…To be fair, what’d y’all say? “The Observer has 12 subscribers,” or something like that?
The “Zahra-bots” are multiplying…up from 12 to 17. You got this! That’s progress! …wait, is that 17 :including: me? (Again, heavy sarcasm)
I know who doesn’t speak for Fullerton… FFFF libertarian Bushala-bot ideologues
There were dozens present. Public opposition brought people from across Fullerton and across the political spectrum. If anyone supported what council did, it’s strange that they did not show up. If you’d been there, you would have seen it for yourself. Feel free to attend council meetings in person and voice your opinions if you feel so strongly, even though you don’t live in Fullerton.
They moved council time in order to increase the inconvenience for people with families or jobs that run past the start to be able to come and voice their opinions and concerns. They tried limiting the time to two minutes and instead, got blasted for it. They tried to move the time for public comments to the end of the meeting and that got blown right out of the water.
Then they pull this stunt and expect the members of the public in the audience chamber to be happy about Zahra getting the shaft? Zahra should have been at least mayor pro-tem. That would have kept the peace and had people cheering. Instead, they went the low road and every single person sitting in that room now knows that the triad are willing to go real low.
Statistically only about 19% of the population is engaged in politics. Like it or not (but it seems like you do) the Fullerton Observer does keep people informed about their local government. Although I do not see you at the city council meetings, I assume you keep up through video or by reading the Fullerton Observer. Just for your information the population of Fullerton is 140,541 which is down almost 3,000 from 2021.
DO YOU HEAR YOURSELF? what character flaw do you have to condone for people to act like that at all?? you should not be screaming like that at all regardless of the situation. I could see that from toddlers but you people are grown adults acting like kids!!!
Dunlap is exactly right!! How dare you act like that in front of kids period regardless if they were his, yours or anyone else kids sitting in that meeting. As Bernard says “SHAME ON YOU!”
Actually, Jeff, there is a MASSIVE difference…they are sitting on the dais.
Just criticism of public institutions and their representatives is the highest form of patriotism. When a city council member rebukes public sentiment so callously, they demonstrate poor judgement at best, and maliciousness at worst. Both are character flaws.
When the public sees maneuvers at play that they strongly disagree with, their outcry is justified. Flaunting established mayoral rotation protocol merited the public’s strong reaction.
In our country’s current political atmosphere, we should be particularly sensitive to those like you who try to dismiss reasonable public outcry.
you are that low to bring up Dunlap’s kids? Keep it with Dunlap but Do not bring the kids involved in this rant of yours!!
I feel badly that they had to see Fullerton residents screaming BOOO!! BULLIES!! like little kids.
Embarrassing!
HAHAHA Jeff..again, please pay attention to: Chronological order.
Dunlap brought them up first. Maybe he shouldn’t have brought them there in the first place.
Maybe you grown people should act like adults!! Whether he brought them or not, you grown adults should act like grown adults!! Adults screaming and fake crying, what in the world?!
They were acting like adults. Very upset and legitimately so. If the triad can’t handle people being upset and vocal about it, maybe they shouldn’t have pull the major stunt they did with the mayor and mayor pro-tem nominations. If they can’t handle the criticism, maybe they should step down, or better yet, not run during the next election?
Yes indeed. People are upset and had every right to voice their disagreement in a peaceful manner.
What I really don’t understand is that the triad knows they can’t return the money for the park, because in doing so could jeopardize future grants. They also can’t use it for any other reason. So why not simply go ahead with the park? Isn’t it supposed to be part of a much longer trail going all throughout Orange county?
Oh wait… didn’t one of them get 50K for his re-election campaign? Nevermind…
They probably have no qualms about returning the money, even if it will jeopardize future grants. They are not friends of Fullerton’s future; they are its conquerors. The name of their game is pleasing their special interests, long-term considerations be damned.
‘Isn’t it supposed to be part of a much longer trail going all throughout Orange county?”
I can’t blame you for getting this wrong since it’s been a recurring falsehood spread by this site and others. The so-called trail ends at Harbor Boulevard at the east and Independence Park on the west. It can’t go farther in either direction because the UP right-of-way ends at those two points. It’s half a mile of disconnection with no discernable users. You might try actually visiting the site. But take a policeman with you.
Let me clue you in that Fullerton is an urban environment and you can get from any A to any B using roads and sidewalks.
Every additional class 1 leg of the long standing city passed bicycle master plan that gets built improves rider safety because you can jump on and off the road and onto the trail if it’s heading your direction.
Ride a bike and you’ll figure it out.
Of course a continuous paved trail network is the ideal but there are practical reasons that isn’t in the cards. But that doesn’t mean there is no utility to short trails because there is no such thing as a “trail to nowhere” within an urban environment as the liars at FFFF frame it. And it’s fallacious to act as though the city cannot acquire and dedicate additional right of way in the future. There is more rail right of way around and we should take opportunities to grow trails when rail or other property become available.
Which is what I so frustrating about council’s choice here. The right of way is there, the money is there, the utility is there, and they still chose wrong.
It has two dead ends and no place in the middle anybody wants to go. You can go about how everything goes someplace but you’re whistling in the dark. With the exception of the Richman crossing there is no way to get on or off. This thing was always a turkey. Even the former City Manager said so. Also your phase 2 doesn’t even line up with phase 1 which drops down to the Highland/Walnut crossing. And phase 1 is an effing disgrace. Fact.
The trail connects two points in town. You get on and off at the end points at worst.
Google maps does an excellent job of plotting efficient, safer paved bike routes using whatever infrastructure is available including class 1 trails. And roads.
So I’m not whistling about anything, I’m explaining how it works for cyclists.
Yeah all those cyclists who want to pedal from the closed UP Park to the back end of Independence Park. Half a mile of glory. You didn’t bother explaining to your cyclist friends that Phase 1 and Phase 2 don’t line up. But who cares? You don’t.
There are more than just phase I and II. Eventually the trail will lead from downtown to Hunt and beyond to the next town. The city is cash poor and has to do big projects in steps. Lights, roads, trails, parks, etc. they can not all be done at the same time because Fullerton doesn’t have the funds to buy it all outright.
How will it get to Hunt? BNSF isn’t selling. And how will it get over the the triple track mainline to the rest of the UP right of way? But please address the issue of Phase 1 and 2 not even lining up. Have you actually been there?
I did walk from downtown to Hunt on the proposed trail. From Phase I at UP park across Highland, past Rancho Fullerton mobile home park, past Independence and the DMV, past the school district warehouse, past the pooch park, and into the Hunt Library. Took 25 minutes walking. Did you walk the wrong direction?
Then you trespassed. Good for you. A real rebel. Now address my comment whose facts you ignored. And yes, you can make your way to the east end from DTF if you cut behind the Ice House or trespass through Bushala’s property. But it can’t be a bike trail. If you were honest you’d admit that.
Honestly, it can be a bike trail if we want to make it one. And thank you for confirming that the property there belongs to Bushala. As you are a trusted friend of Bushala, I believe you. I wish you would give reasons as to why it can not be a bike trail other than it goes no where and is dark and dangerous. Because those arguments make me think you do not understand how building a trail and putting in lighting works. I know there are flyers and rumors around town that the proposed trail and parks are more dangerous than any other place in Fullerton. I checked with the Police Department and there is no data to support those claims.
Downtown still remains the most dangerous area in Fullerton (probably because it has the most people and we all know that people are the most dangerous animal in the world).
Zenger – A little fact check: The abandoned railroad trail property belongs to the City of Fullerton not to Bushala. Several people – including Bushala – own property bordering the trail.
Even if that were true (it’s not), why not simply build the trail, which the public has so desperately made clear that it wants? It will not cause any harm or problems for Fullerton, and rather will enhance the lives of those who live near it. I would even argue that the trail would be even more well-loved and well-utilized since the public has had to fight so hard for it.
Why not simply build this beneficial trail that would not cause any problems for the city?
The argument of “no one uses it now” is not valid, because the built trail would be totally different from the existing site.
It is true. Why don’t you go take a first hand look instead of just talking. I challenge you.
I already have, and I did not see the problems you describe.
Then I respectfully suggest you consult with an ophthalmologist.
I agree that preventative health maintenance is a very important, but what does that have to do with the topic at hand?
He’s trying to distract you by getting you flustered. I think your vision is fine.
I am suggesting you have serious ophthalmological issues if you can’t see the obvious.
I have examined the proposal, and I don’t see the problems you describe.
What a petty, and silly display from the teeny weeny dictatorship of three (Jung, Whitaker and Dunlap) in once again preventing anyone except themselves the honorary position of mayor and mayor protem (Definitely no honor there).
And with their continued green space trail opposition (in spite of huge community support ) – all three are looking forward to continued generous campaign donations and especially nasty and false campaign postcards and signs opposing anyone who dares run against them.
Good to keep in mind that those dirty campaign tactics did not work out for the hand-picked Bushala (Fullerton Taxpayers for Reform PAC) candidates in last election.
Zahra and Charles were elected in spite of the huge money spent on false advertising against them.
The public is getting smarter and less willing to put up with self-serving bull.
Please elaborate on the “false advertising” and “dirty campaign tactics” against Zahra. And of course specifics would help support your statement.
That’s nice, David, but it’s a little too late to be making demands for “specifics,” as WHEN has ANYONE given “specifics” when attacking CMZahra?! She owes you NOTHING.
So does this mean you DIDN’T receive at least one of the NUMEROUS false and erroneous mailers? You didn’t see at least one of the NUMEROUS false and erroneous signs (emphasis on: False and erroneous)? …because :that’s: not “dirty campaign tactics,” right?
What’s with this refusal to accept the importance of: Chronological Order?! Fred has bellyached “Why are you so mean to me?” …again, chronological order. His bellyaching is preceded by my comments. My comments (are a result of and) are preceded by HIS MISBEHAVIOR. So, again…if my comments hurt his feelings, then he should STOP MISBEHAVING. It’s pretty simple.
David is simply trolling… of course he knows he is asking Sharon to spread Bushala’s political messaging for him, for free.
In Fred’s words, that’s being “fiscal responsible.” …like getting additional years/usage out of business cards for: The Mayor’s Committee of Economic and Cultural Development Counsel.
“The Mayor’s Committee of Economic and Cultural Development Counsel”
That sounds made up 😉
What shady things has he done?
…well for starters, he arranged to become mayor, behind his colleagues and even went as far as to bring his wife and kids. No, no…you meant CMZahra.
Well, CMZahra has engaged and empowered an entire district, which has historically been disenfranchised and forgotten. He doesn’t just have the “willingness to respond,” like Bruce, but he actually responds. He’s always willing to have a discussion, and he actually :LISTENS:.
Wait… you said, “shady.” Yeah, then I have nothing for any “shady” behavior.
You like attacking people who won’t hit you back. The very definition of a bully.
Stop shouting. It’s a bad look.
I saw all the signs and mailers, I think. Nothing I saw was “false and erroneous.”
As for Sharon Kennedy, she owes readers of the blog the truth, having made a positive assertion. I know it’s not forthcoming, but that’s not my problem.
The flyers and the blog are full of lies. Zenger please write your memoir so you can do something other than Troll this website.
How are they lies? He was charged!!
Please stop believing Zahara is victim in all this.. he isn’t!!
You’re right, Jeff. “Zahara” ISN’T a “victim in all this.” CMZahra, however, is.
You and all his fans are victims of his lies and games!! Sad to believe a criminal!!
What are some examples of his criminal behavior?
You are seriously asking?!? If you have to ask then you seriously are blinded by his lies!!!
Your reply below cannot be replied to. It’s interesting that you won’t cite any examples. The only logical conclusion, then, is that there are none.
The major criminal behavior that everyone seems to forget are his charges for vandalism and battery, which he plead guilty so he can have his record expunged.
Making false accusations against colleagues to the police. the list can go on and on.
Ever think maybe that is why he is Mayor???
Battery is a serious allegation, but the case brought by someone unknown to him and was dismissed. I’m not sure what is meant by false allegations. I’m not trying to downplay important accusations, but these seem to me like weak arguments against suitability for public office.
Amy – You are right.. It is a very serious crime! It was not unknown to him and yes he was still charged. As i keep repeating myself and hoping one day it will get through to all the Zahra minions, the DA does not charge unless there is no evidence… In the case he was charged because there was evidence!!
But You are downplaying serious accusations by saying they are weak arguments. Excusing his criminal behavior as an elected official. WOW!!
Jeff, it is clear that you feel very strongly possibly obsessive about Zahra, but you seem to be basing your accusations on the whispers of the wildly conspiratorial Bushala Blog instead of verified information. There are two tools that can help you demystify the story. The first is the internet where you can ask what the reasons for expunging a case are, what it means when the DA drops a case, etc to your hearts content. The other is the telephone or cell phone. You can call the DA’s office and ask all the questions you want. Of course you can also email them and have it in writing.
I hope that you are able to find the truth that will satisfy you and stop gaslighting people with your Bush conspiracy. Thank you.
@Jeff –Attorney / client privilege would prevent her from speaking to you, so that “evidence” is an obviously lie.
I thought it was “innocent until proven guilty in a court of law”? Anyone can be charged with anything, that doesn’t mean they are guilty of it.
when you plead guilty and take a plea deal so your record can be expunged like Zahra did.
Which is what exactly Zahra did!!
The case was dismissed, not expunged. There was no guilty plea.
Healthy discussion is good, but it should be based on fact.
He clearly says at a council meeting that his record was expunged. He pled guilty and took a plea deal of those charges, which is why is case was expunged.
Where are your facts? Clearly you do not know what you are talking about.
@Jeff you can get your record expunged for other reasons than a guilty plea, so you are jumping to conclusion based on information our society has decided you have no right to. Lawfully expunged = none of your business.
I read the story in various sources – OC Register, Voice of OC, and the Observer. Zahra maintained his innocence, and there was no report of a guilty plea. The case was dismissed. I’d be glad to watch the Council meeting video you referenced if you’d share the date.
-Amy and John—
Yes, he did pled guilty. Again the DA does not charge unless there is no evidence!!! I am not sure you know how this works.
How do you know the case was dismissed? Either way he committed the crime and took the plea deal!!
@Jeff
“I am not sure you know how this works.”
I am absolutely certain that you don’t. You’re speculating. You don’t know. You choose to believe things that you cannot prove, and then spread them as if they were facts.
They’re not.
-John-
Show me the facts!
You choose to believe that they are not facts when they certainly are 100% facts!! Ask Zahra’s attorney that defended him with his charges.
But what are the lies, Kennedy? Let’s talk about them. You can describe some of them and I’ll rebut you. Better yet let’s have a public debate, you and I. We can see how it turns out. What about it?
BTW, “troll” shouldn’t be capitalized.
Settle down, David. There’s a WHOLE lot of “My-dad-can-beat-up-your-dad” energy coming from you, right now. Take a breath.
It’s fine to disagree, and almost to be expected. However, adults have discussions using: FACTS. NOT conjecture, NOT far-fetched conspiracies, but with: FACTS.
David, I will gladly have a discussion with you. You know where to find me. You see, the ONE gripe that you have, is a stretch…and that’s being generous. However, as I have repeatedly said at the lectern, ALL of the CouncilMajority’s misbehavior can be found on PublicRecord…as in on the CityWebsite.
You claim that he “lies/lied” (Re: PleaDeal). Again, the proof that he lied can NOT be found on PublicRecord. The CouncilMajority?! Out of their OWN mouths, they say conflicting things and refuse to take accountability; and again, this can ALL be found on the CityWebsite.
…but never mind all that, right?
You, gaslighting trolls, are exhausting. But I guess that’s your intent. Again, disagreement is one thing; but HOW do you have a discussion with someone who cites absolute nonsense and refuses to accept facts?!
Ya it is exhausting to read all your nonsense and how you and all of Zahra minions refuse to accept the fact that Zahra lies/lied.
You should take a breath Bernard before you start shaking!!
ALL of your tantrums are also on public record!
I believe you are speaking of Zahra not taking responsibility for any of his shady tactics he has done towards the colleagues and behind their backs. But of course you believe your “innocent victim” Zahra’s lies! As your words “SHAME ON YOU!”
Chronological order, Jeff. Please, go gaslight/troll elsewhere.
Yes, I refuse to blindly accept things for which I cannot find actual proof. How is that a bad thing?
Amy, that’s a “bad thing,” because you can’t gaslight/troll with actual proof. It’s MUCH easier to just fling blind, nonsensical accusations with no proof.
Bruce likes to tout how Fullerton is the “City of Education.” Because you know, blind accusations, with less than zero proof, are entirely acceptable in Academia, right, Jeff? And yes, I should most definitely know about (and am “good” at): Academia; seeing as how I’m Asian, right Whitaker?
-Bernard
Where is your proof of when Jung put his hands on you before the meeting? Show me!
You’re easily exhausted then. There are no facts coming from you, just emotion. You really are a pathetic little bully.
No kinda troll like a Concern Troll.
Repeated lies of omission are a bad look. Why didn’t Bushala signs say “Citizen Arrested and Charges Dropped”?
We know why. The truth is of no concern in their politics.
The truth is no concern for you Zahra fans and his shady antics.
And yes Zahra is a bad look for Fullerton to be Mayor.
@Jeff –I believe that Zahra would make a very good Mayor. He knows procedure, he is diligent in reading all the back up material, and District 5 residents would feel that they are being heard for the first time.
That does not make him qualify to become Mayor. Trust within the Council members can make him qualified. But his lies and shady antics disqualify him on becoming Mayor.
Also he knows how to commit crimes which is not suitable for a Mayor.
“That does not make him qualify to become Mayor”
Of course it does. He’s the duly elected, qualified representative of District 5 and lawfully eligible in every way to be mayor.
Everyone knows what is happening here. District 5 is more liberal than the council majority, and so it is being excluded from the mayorship. The council majority will not “trust” anyone less conservative than Fred Jung.
Oh wow!! Such lies and accusations!!
Again, maybe there is a good reason why they do not want him as Mayor. Maybe you do not see what Zahra does behind closed doors to the Council majority or maybe they do not want a criminal to be mayor of Fullerton.
Zahra people needs to see the bigger picture and honestly stop thinking that the council majority have their own agendas and which I am sure Zahra has placed in the whole District 5 heads. (its starting to look pathetic)
For a “movie producer” he is a great actor that can cry on hand! Oscar goes to Zahra!!!
One of the more vocal critics of the council even saw Freddy attempt to physically remove Bernard from the council chambers before a meeting. That’s assault.
HAHAHA He did, and he put his hands on me. That’s why I said what I did (Re: Pressing full charges the next time he touches me).
But Kittlen, never mind that; or ALL their misbehaviors that are on PublicRecord (HOW do y’all just conveniently disregard all of this?!)… Focus on snapping out of the trance that CMZahra has on you and jump on the conspiracy-train with these trolls. Right, Jeff?
Trance that Zahra has on me? Wow. Whatever it is you’re smoking, I want a kilo of it on my doorstep, right now.
Ask your buddy Zahra to give you some since he was for having marijuana shops near your kids schools!!! Oh what a great councilmen!! Looks after the kids!! (Sarcasm)
Actually, Jeff: If you just take a second to properly parse information, rather than knee-jerk-rage-typing it’ll be clearer.
CMZahra is NOT “for having marijuana shops near your kids schools.”
You see, Jeff, just like the UPTrailGrant$, California legislation has VERY specific language. Meaning, proximity to schools, youth centers, etc. is already limited. Unlike the CouncilMajority, CMZahra actually cited real evidence and explained his rational. The CouncilMajority, however, has yet to explain ANYTHING.
Please, Jeff. Stop gaslighting/trolling. Your unwillingness to accept FACT is absurd. Again, HOW are you supposed to have an adult discussion with someone who refuses to accept FACTS and is adamant that the sky is green?! (that is NOT sarcasm)
…speaking of, doesn’t your dear Bushala run an ILLEGALLY (not by State, but due to absurd ordinances) operating dispensary?! What was that about the “pot calling the kettle black?!” HAHAHA (Not as in HAHA-funny…HAHA-infurating, like banging your head against a wall.)
Where is it? Show me where it’s at!
@Jeff, Zahra was correct that the City needed to make an ordinance to regulate the marijuana dispensaries in Fullerton so that there was better and easier enforcement regulations. Now the dispensaries pop up, it takes code enforcement tons of time and effort, tax payer dollars, law enforcement, and lawyers to get them to stop. Then they just close up and move to a new location and the process begins again. As Jung said, “It is like playing wack-a-mole.” Interestingly the Bushala family are so interested in marijuana that they spent millions getting into the industry.
“Interestingly the Bushala family are so interested in marijuana that they spent millions getting into the industry.”
That’s just a ridiculous lie. You should be ashamed of yourself. But shame is not something you people do.
@Zenger –It is possible to disagree and if you intent on winning the argument then please present some supporting evidence.
Oh! You maybe you mean ALBERT Bushala. He and Tony haven’t spoken in years. They have no common financial interests. There is no “family.” So you’re just throwing crap on the wall. Nice “news” outlet ya got here.
Haaaaaa! You are so funny. Even if he and Al did get in a little dispute – everyone in town knows Tony’s habits and nothing wrong with it – perfectly legal.
Zahra was for the marijuana dispensaries in Fullerton. He did not care that they are near kids schools. Regardless he APPROVED of the dispensaries!! Where are the Bushala dispensaries located at? no one can seem to answer me that.
Zahra was for an ordinance for marijuana dispensaries, so that code enforcement and the police could be more effective in closing down illegal dispensaries.
He was for having marijuana dispensaries in Fullerton so that it can bring revenue to the city. Bottom line, he still has not done anything about the illegal ones in District 5. What is he doing about that? Hmmm something does not sound right.
Same team, Kittlen. Same team… 😉
…and yay TeamMetric!
Ask Zahra since he was all for the dispensaries!! He might be able to hook you up!
Show public record that this happened.. this sounds familiar when Zahra falsely accused an “altercation” happened after council meeting and witnesses said never happened!!
…you obviously neither understand what: PublicRecords means, nor how it works. HOW is this the “City of Education,” when y’all refuse to open a book?!
Actually, therein lies the problem. Semantics. It’s not about “opening” the book. It’s about READING the book and properly parsing the pertinent information.
Show the proof where he put his hands on you!? Exactly how Zahra said a colleague did “altercation “ which was false.. police had nothing to investigate.
I don’t know what y’all are complain’ ’bout. It’s called, “ManifestDestiny” and we are graced by God’s :CHOSEN: gifts-to-Fullerton to “lead” us into the “future.” You know, the “future” that FFFFers are SOOO concerned ’bout, it’s in their name (HEAVY sarcasm)?!
Welcome to 1985, folks! The only thing that would top this off would be an “automall.” To hell with pedestrians/bicyclists/non-car-users and PublicSafety! (Again, HEAVY sarcasm)