Walter and his wife and granddaughter in Civic Center Park
Photo by Lissa Schairer
Dear Newport Neighbor,
As a longtime Newport Beach resident, I am deeply concerned about the behavior of a city council that operates behind closed doors, refuses to heed community concerns, and presents city residents with unacceptable ‘back-room deals’ on important issues that impact our quality of life.
That’s why I respectfully ask for your vote for City Council in District 3.
I have a long history of commitment and involvement in our city, including leading the successful campaign to defeat the Measure B politicians’ power grab in 2022. I also led the effort to save St. James Episcopal Church from plans to sell and develop the property.
My public involvement includes service as an active board member of both the Pacific Symphony and the Library Foundation of Newport Beach. I’m proud to carry on a family tradition of civic engagement. My late parents, John and Elizabeth Stahr, were honored in 2016 as Citizens of the Year, for their many contributions to Newport Beach, most particularly for their role in raising the funding to build the Central Library.
By contrast, incumbent District 3 Councilman Erik Weigand has repeatedly ignored the best interests of our community. Whether defending his unpopular support for the surf park or his decision to ignore the city’s past promises to preserve Civic Center Park, Councilman Weigand has shown he is out of touch with his constituents.
Weigand’s negative comments about residents at the March 10 council study session on the proposal to tear up Civic Center Park to build a police headquarters illustrated his complete disdain for the people of Newport Beach.
It’s time for a change at City Hall. That’s why so many respected Newport Beach leaders have endorsed my candidacy for City Council, including: former Newport Beach mayors Keith Curry, Nancy Gardner, Clarence Turner, and Don Webb; and dedicated community leaders, including Karen Clark, Debbie Stevens, and Paul Watkins.
With your support, we can ensure that residents’ voices are heard once again on the City Council.
I would be honored to represent you.
Walter Stahr
Donate to Help
Walter Stahr
Meet Walter
The Stahr family has lived in Newport Beach since 1972 and established a family legacy of civic service and community leadership. Walter has served on local boards, led successful efforts to protect cherished community institutions, and built a distinguished career in law, public policy, and as an author of American history.
Walter and his wife Masami live in Newport Beach. They have two adult children living nearby and one new grandchild.
On the Issues
Walter Stahr is committed to protecting Newport Beach’s quality of life by preserving open spaces, strengthening local control over development, and ensuring major decisions are approved by voters. He will prioritize public safety with strong support for police and fire services while advancing real solutions to address homelessness and addiction.
Above all, Walter will restore accountability at City Hall — ending backroom deals and making sure every resident’s voice is heard.
Join the Team