New Merchants Association Held First Meeting

The La Jolla Village Merchants Association met Thursday at La Jolla public library to swear in 15 board members into the newly created organization. In its first official meeting the merchants association adopted its by-laws.

San Diego Councilwoman Sherri Lightner swore in the business leaders that will now manage the Business Improvement District funds from 1,200 businesses.

"You will now have the opportunity to set the tone for the businesses in this district... You have already put much energy and passion into this process. It is astounding. I just want to thank each and every one of you," said Lightner.

The city was temporarily managing the BID after deciding last year not to renew the contract of Promote La Jolla. An audit revealed that funds had been mismanaged. Promote La Jolla's insurance carrier agreed late last year to pay the city nearly $90,000 as part of a settlement agreement.

The new board will focus on beautification, special events, and outreach and promotions that benefit all La Jolla merchants.

In addition, Phil Coller of Everett Stunz was appointed president; Nancy Warwick of Warwick's was approinted vice president; Tom Brady of La Jolla Cottage Rentals  was appointed treasurer and Sheila Fortune of Aquamoreé was appointed secretary.

The La Jolla Village Merchants Association's next meeting will be March 9.

The New Board of Directors:

Term ending October 2013

• Tom Brady of La Jolla Cottage Rentals
• Egon Kafka of
• Robert Lane of
• Kevin Smith of
• Nancy Warwick of

Term ending October 2012

• Phil Coller of 
• Sheila Fortune of Aquamoreé
• Byran King of
• Michelle Lerach of
• Scott Levin of Blue Book Publishers

Term ending October 2011

• Claudette Berwin of
• Kate Brainard of
• Glidia Holland of Glidia Salon
• Tal O’Farrell of Endless Summer Enterprises/
• Leon Chow of