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Singer and communications professional Charlotte Reed conceded to Laura Melahn on Nov. 6 after updated election results showed Melahn leading the race for Menlo Park City Council District 4 with 1,199 votes, 61.6% of the vote. Reed had 749 votes in the latest tally.
“I am so grateful to everyone who stepped up to support our campaign. Trust in our elected leaders and city government in Menlo Park is at an all time low,” Reed, 31, said in her public statement. “From day one, we were committed to mending that broken trust by always showing up, putting people first, and leading with honesty and transparency.”
Both candidates sought to fill the seat that will be vacated by Mayor Betsy Nash, who decided not to seek reelection after two terms representing the district, which includes downtown, Allied Arts and parts of central Menlo Park.
Melahn, a venture capitalist and co-founder of the Downtown Menlo Fund, said Reed had not contacted her but thanked her opponent for her campaign.
“Charlotte knocked on 4,000 doors in our district, which is massive. That’s real work and it was good for Menlo Park no matter who won,” Melahn, 41, said. “I also want to thank Mayor Nash who congratulated me yesterday. She’s represented District 4 for eight years. That’s a long time to give to your neighbors.”
The candidates offered different visions for the city-owned parking lots in downtown Menlo Park. Reed supported the city’s controversial plan to build affordable housing on three lots. Melahn said the plan was not financially feasible and proposed an alternative to meet state housing mandates.
Citywide, voters appeared to be rejecting Measure P, which would require voter approval to repurpose any of the eight downtown parking lots. The measure aimed to block the housing development. Reed opposed Measure P, while Melahn did not publicly take a position.
In her statement, Reed wished Melahn luck on council, but not without a final jab.
“Laura Melahn has a long road ahead, but my supporters and I wish her well and sincerely hope she is committed to creating a better Menlo Park for all residents, versus that select few,” Reed said.
