The Riverside Press-Enterprise
Meet the candidates for City Council District 4
For the first time since his appointment to the Loma Linda City Council in 2012, Councilmember John Lenart faces a direct competitor in the March 5 election.
Lenart is challenged by Rhonda Spencer-hwang, a professor and author, as Loma Linda switches to district-based voting in 2024.
Lenart was the top votegetter in the 2020 election that sent only the top three candidates to the dais. Since then, the City Council approved new district maps after agreeing to end at-large elections. Before the 2024 election, all candidates competed against one another for open council seats. Now, candidates are grouped by districts.
On the March ballot, voters will choose new representatives in Districts 1, 4 and 5. Districts 2 and 3 will be up for election in 2026.
Lenart and Spencerhwang face off in District 4.
We reached the candidates and asked them all the same questions. Below are the responses for the District 4 candidates, edited for length to conform to required word limits.
John Lenart
Age: 65
Occupation: Physician/ educator
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Theology/history, Pacific Union College. Master of Divinity, Andrews University. Doctor of Medicine, Loma Linda University School of Medicine. Postdoctoral training in anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center.
What is the top issue facing the city of Loma Linda?
There is rising crime and lawlessness. Although many other cities have it worse than we do, it has been increasing recently, endangering our citizens and reducing both the quality of life and the feeling of safety. Another critical issue is overcrowding due to growth of both LLU and residential space. Also, cities including Loma Linda are dealing with increasing state ordered mandates, taking away more of our ability to self-govern.
How would you help solve this issue?
Increase the number of law enforcement personnel on duty at any given time, including more patrols. Find and use other available resources to deal with the homeless populations and get them the help they need. Protect and continue support of Measure V, which limits growth to reasonable amounts and helps to mitigate excess traffic. Band together with other cities and fight back against overreaching state mandates. As an experienced member of City Council, I am well qualified to help with this battle.
What makes you the best choice for your district, rather than your opponent?
I have lived in this city for 44 years and have experienced all that Loma Linda has to offer! I attended university as a medical student and continued on as an anesthesiology resident, and now work for LLU Faculty Medical Group as a teaching anesthesiologist. I have academic appointments with both the School of Medicine and the School of Nursing … so I am well aware of the needs and special concerns of various educational and healthcare entities in the city.
Top three community activities:
I facilitate mission trips to other countries for health care and other needs by helping to coordinate Residents and Attending Physicians through LLU Global Health Institute. I enjoy visiting with elderly people in extended care facilities such as Linda Valley. I also am a mentor to young resident physicians, helping them to navigate their new found challenges and they evaluate job offers, places to live, and other issues as they transition out of education and into the workforce.
Campaign information: jlenart@adelphia.net
Dr. Rhonda Spencer-hwang
Age: N/A
Occupation: Professor Education: Doctorate and master’s in public health from Loma Linda University
What is the top issue facing the city of Loma Linda?
1) Securing funding and smart growth. We need to help the city bring in revenue by securing grants and attracting new businesses. 2) Resident safety and wellness, important focus points for our city and go hand in hand with our unique identity. 3) Community voiced concerns. I am already hearing about major priorities for our city to address and include three big ones: crime, homelessness and traffic.
How would you help solve this issue?
Loma Linda is a “city of health and prosperity” and we need to develop a unified vision around our own motto when it comes to our economic growth and development. For almost 10 years and as a Loma Linda University professor, I have been researching our centenarians and have strategies for how we can translate these findings and help develop a sense of cohesiveness … as well as attract and grow outstanding businesses and organizations that support our unique community.
What makes you the best choice for your district, rather than your opponents?
I have a unique perspective studying centenarians and can leverage my work to help our city thrive. You can find more information about my research through my published book, “Raising Resilient Kids.” I also have a track record of bringing in millions of dollars in funding to the university and I’m excited about collaborating and bringing my experience and know-how to support our city. Also, I’m endorsed by the San Bernardino County Professional Firefighters Association. Additionally, I have a unique perspective as a parent. Top three community activities: My favorite three activities in the city of Loma Linda are mountain biking, mountain biking and did I mention mountain biking! I also enjoy hiking in the hills and picnicking at Hulda Crooks Park with my husband, kids and Bernedoodle.