Founded over 20 years ago, Canon Business Properties, Inc. is a privately held firm specializing in property management, real estate development and investment opportunities.
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Commercial Property Management in Huntington Beach, CA
- Commercial Property Management in Huntington Beach, CA
- The Best Commercial Property and Construction Management Company for Elite Clients in California
- Canon Business Properties, Inc.: A Reputation for Excellence
- The Only Partner You'll Need for Commercial Property Management in Huntington Beach, CA
- Full-Service Commercial Construction Management in Huntington Beach, CA
- Close On-Time with Commercial Brokerage Services in Huntington Beach, CA
- Will the Los Angeles Real Estate Market Recover After Recent Wildfires?
- Canon Business Properties, Inc.: The Premier Choice for Commercial Property Management
Experienced commercial property owners know that one of the most important decisions after acquiring an asset is selecting a top-tier property management firm with years of high-level experience. This crucial choice helps ensure the property is well-maintained and appreciates in value over time. Anything less can present owners with a series of challenges that negatively impact their ROI.
Unfortunately, just about anyone can claim to be a property manager these days. However, savvy property owners understand the importance of vetting and securing services from a reputable commercial property management company in Huntington Beach, CA.
We are not talking about unreliable LLCs. We're talking about established firms with a track record of excellence, like Canon Business Properties, Inc., who deliver real results to long-term clients. Unlike less reputable companies, Canon Business Properties, Inc. is a privately held firm with unrivaled expertise that offers custom services to an elite client base.
Whether you own commercial, retail, industrial, or office real estate in The Golden State, our team is ready to show you why we are the best.
Canon Business Properties, Inc.: A Reputation for Excellence
When you want to try Watertable in Huntington Beach, CA, you don't go to a mid-tier chain restaurant and expect to be impressed.. You drive to the BLK Earth Sea Spirits in Huntington Beach, CA. Similarly, when you are in search of the most sought-after property management company on the West Coast, you do not settle for mediocrity. You choose Canon Business Properties.
Founded over 20 years ago by Alexander Radosevic, Canon Business Properties, Inc. is a privately held firm specializing in commercial property management, commercial construction management, real estate development, and investment opportunities. Property owners and managers around the world look to us to provide them with expert advice on commercial and industrial property management. They also look to us to initiate and manage comprehensive commercial building plans and property sales. That is especially important in California, where wildfires have ruined hundreds of commercial properties since January of 2025. With a portfolio valued at over $1.5 billion dollars, owning, investing in, and managing industrial, commercial, office, and retail properties is our bread and butter.
The Canon Business Properties, Inc. Difference
With more than two decades of experience in commercial property management, commercial construction management, and commercial brokerage services, no two companies are quite like Alex Radosevic's Canon Business Properties, Inc. We take pride in cultivating personal, long-term relationships with our clients built on integrity, trust, and mutual respect.
Here are just a few reasons why our clients rely on us to provide real ROI:
Our Expertise
With a diverse portfolio exceeding $1.5 billion in value, we specialize in the management of various property types, including industrial complexes, commercial centers, office buildings, and retail spaces. Our expertise allows us to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities presented by each sector, ensuring optimal performance and value enhancement for all properties under our care. Whether it is overseeing the operations of bustling retail environments or maintaining the efficiency of modern office spaces, our commitment to excellence drives our success
Our Clients
Our clientele is diverse and includes a range of sophisticated groups and individuals. Some of our clients include families seeking to secure their financial future, sovereign wealth funds, seasoned real estate investors looking for commercial property management in Huntington Beach, CA, and high-net-worth individuals who need tailored investment solutions to meet unique goals and family legacies. Each of these clients brings distinct needs and aspirations, allowing us to provide customized strategies that cater to their specific circumstances.
Our Values
It does not take a graduate from Huntington Beach Adult School in Huntington Beach, CA, to know that personal client relationships are most often built on integrity, trust, and mutual respect. That is why we prioritize open communication and transparency. When we work with a new client, we want a deeper understanding of their needs and aspirations. This commitment allows us to build not just professional connections, but meaningful partnerships that stand the test of time.
Now that you know more about what separates Canon Business Properties, Inc. from other companies in Los Angeles, let us take a closer look at a few of our specialties: commercial property management, commercial construction management, and commercial property sales.
The Only Partner you will Need for Commercial Property Management in Huntington Beach, CA
At Canon Business Properties, Inc., we focus on managing commercial properties for owners who demand the best. Most of our new clients come to us as referrals from satisfied business owners, family offices, sovereign funds, and high net-worth individuals who trust us and our long-term relationships.
Canon is a leading firm in managing commercial, office, retail, and industrial properties. We earned our reputation by consistently exceeding expectations and providing returns on investments that perform better than the market average. We currently manage a commercial portfolio worth over $1.5 billion, which includes some of the world's most valuable and prestigious properties. Over our many years in business, this proven track record of success has made Canon the go-to firm for "in the know" clients demanding the best.
Our elite, white-glove property management services cover all the essential needs for managing high-end properties and more. With strong relationships in Silicon Valley and a reputation for cutting-edge technology, we deliver excellent results at prices that others are envious of. Having our own commercial construction management team and extensive local market knowledge does not hurt, either.
Some of the most common commercial property management services we offer include:
Tenant Screening and Selection
It does not take a graduate from Fusion Academy Huntington Beach in Huntington Beach, CA, to know that personal client relationships are most often built on integrity, trust, and mutual respect. That is why we prioritize open communication and transparency. When we work with a new client, we want a deeper understanding of their needs and aspirations. This commitment allows us to build not just professional connections, but meaningful partnerships that stand the test of time.
Capital Improvements
To preserve and increase the value of real estate, it is important to consistently and carefully assess its physical state and all capital upgrades. We offer budget-friendly resources to help assist in this critical step. Our experienced team meticulously oversees every aspect of each project, from negotiating bids to maintaining budgets and schedules. Jump to the commercial construction management section of this page for more information on how Canon improves your property investments in California.
Financial Reporting and Accounting
We provide tailored accounting services using Yardi Voyager, a sophisticated yet user-friendly property management software platform. Clients and their advisors can view accounting, leasing, and maintenance information, as well as every facet of their portfolio, in real time via a highly secure and reliable portal. Our robust internal controls, backed by a system of checks and balances, ensure precision and offer assurance.
Financial reporting and accounting from Canon Business Properties, Inc. can include:
- Collection and Dues
- Expense and Monthly Income Reporting
- Forecasting and Budgeting
- Delinquency Stabilization
- Accounts Payable and Receivable
- Reserve Analysis and Valuation
- Bank Reconciliation
Maintenance and Repairs
We work with the vendors our clients prefer and can provide a trained local maintenance staff for each property if needed. These experts will collaborate to create plans that can anticipate and address maintenance needs. Our maintenance and property management teams offer effective solutions by handling many important tasks that other companies outsource at a higher cost. This leads to better operational efficiency, higher quality tenants, and improved performance.
While other property management firms might cut costs by delaying necessary maintenance, we recognize the long-term problems that can arise from such choices. In worst-case scenarios, maintenance issues can be hazardous, leaving tenants injured in Ivy Park at Huntington Beach in Huntington Beach, CA. That is why we take a proactive approach by managing maintenance contracts and providing monthly service reports.
The above is only a sampling of our comprehensive commercial property management services in Huntington Beach, CA. We also offer:
- 24-Hour Emergency Response
- Unlawful Detainer Actions
- Property Inspections
- Vendor Bid Management
- Code & Regulation Compliance
- Licensing and Permitting
- Commercial Construction Management
- Commercial Brokerage Services
- Much More
Full-Service Commercial Construction Management in Huntington Beach, CA
When you have developed over 1 million square feet of real estate, it is safe to say you know how to source and guide skilled craftsmen for efficient construction management. At Canon Business Properties, Inc., we only work with quality contractors and subcontractors who are highly conscientious, follow building codes, and have the skills and resources to deliver great results. From the first bids to the ribbon-cutting ceremony, we take care of everything for you - which is particularly important for those recently affected by California's wildfires.
If you own an apartment complex or building that has been compromised due to a natural disaster like wildfire, you are probably thinking about what steps to take next. If your goal is to build back better and stronger than ever, look no further than Canon Business Properties, Inc. to help. We have a special place in our hearts for those affected by the recent wildfire tragedies. As such, we will do everything in our power to help you rebuild your apartment complex or commercial property.
Our long-term relationships with contractors help us get competitive bids for high-quality work. Plus, we offer bespoke construction management through our staff and a network of construction professionals. By leaning on Canon, you can focus on caring for your family while we handle the hard work and resurrect your investment.
Construction Management Phases
Typically, a commercial construction project includes three phases and can take years or more to complete, depending on the scope of the project. The three phases of construction include:
Design Phase
The main tasks of this phase include selecting architecture and engineering consultants, developing the engineering scope while coordinating with the building engineer, and preparing the budget and schedule. It also involves issuing drawings for permits stand reporting progress to the property owner.
Bidding Phase
During the bidding phase, we will first prepare a request for proposal and select suitable contractors to bid on the project. Following this, a pre-construction meeting will be held to discuss the project scope and review the relevant building rules, regulations, and requirements.
Once bids are received, we will thoroughly evaluate and qualify them, preparing a bid comparison to facilitate the contractor selection process. After selecting the most qualified contractor, we will report the results and progress to the owner, ensuring transparency and alignment with their expectations.
Construction Phase
The construction process begins with closely monitoring the demolition to ensure compliance with building regulations, followed by the creation of a construction progress meeting schedule. It is essential to resolve any field conflicts that may arise, alongside reviewing change orders to keep everything on track.
Throughout the construction phase, we monitor all ongoing work and maintain effective communication with the tenant regarding their needs. We also help coordinate important aspects like telephone and data services, furniture arrangements, and the tenant's move-in date. Additionally, a thorough review of payment applications and supporting documents, including lien waivers, is necessary to maintain financial transparency. As the project nears completion, preparing a punch list and managing the contract close-out, along with providing onsite supervision, ensuring quality control, and finalizing finishing details, sets the stage for a smooth move-in process
Close On-Time with Commercial Brokerage Services in Huntington Beach, CA
When you need an aggressive marketer and negotiator for commercial real estate, look no further than Alexander Radosevic and Canon Business Properties, Inc. Our expertise in the industry and knowledgeable brokers offer many advantages for investors, developers, landlords, and tenants. In fact, we offer tailored strategic planning for each property and develop personalized solutions to address a range of nuanced client needs. At the end of the day, we work as a team to successfully lease, acquire, and dispose of properties on behalf of our clients - and we do it much better than your average agent with a "big box" brand.
Some of our commercial brokerage services include:
Marketing for Commercial Sale or Lease
Prior to promoting a property for sale or lease, Canon assesses its fair market value using our in-depth expertise and comprehensive market information. After finalizing the value, we establish a multi-faceted marketing plan aimed at potential buyers, tenants, and investors through a range of highly effective methods, including:
- Local and National Media Advertising
- Local and National Broker Cooperation
- Direct Mail
- Brochures
- Signage
- Online Digital Marketing Services
Transaction Services for Commercial Real Estate
To ensure successful transactions, we closely monitor expenses and collaborate with your financial and legal advisors. We provide support with due diligence, escrow services, business permits, construction oversight, and financing options, including take-out and bridge loans, purchase money financing, and refinancing. As skilled and seasoned negotiators, we formulate and present offers and counter offers and are happy to prepare closing transaction documents. Of course, we keep you and your advisors updated throughout each stage of this process. That way, you know exactly what is happening and how your transaction is progressing.
Will the Los Angeles Real Estate Market Recover After Recent Wildfires?
If you just read the headline above, chances are you or someone you know has been affected by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles County. They have left an enduring and depressing mark on our region's commercial real estate scene. In fact, the recent fires obliterated over 16,200 buildings and devastated more than 57,000 acres. This devastation has had a profound effect on commercial real estate in sectors like office, industrial, and multifamily properties.
Let's take a closer look at the short and long-term impacts of these wildfires, as well as recovery resources for those affected and what the future looks like in LA commercial real estate.
The Aftermath
The fires caused significant damage, with property losses estimated between $30 billion and $45 billion, affecting crucial commercial hubs like office parks and retail spaces. Insurance premiums in high-risk areas have surged, prompting many property owners to seek limited coverage through the California FAIR Plan after insurers decline renewals. This disaster has led businesses to reconsider leasing in high-risk locations - a trend that could disrupt the existing commercial property market.
Long-Term Impact
Some of the long-term impacts of the recent California wildfires may include:
Revival of the Industrial Market
The rebuilding process is anticipated to create substantial demand for industrial space, especially for industrial outdoor storage (IOS) properties. This could help fill current vacancies and encourage new development, although it may not immediately reduce decade-high vacancy rates.
Construction Costs and Regulatory Challenges
Tighter fire safety regulations and escalating construction expenses will make the rebuilding process more challenging. These elements could postpone projects and raise costs for both property owners and developers.
Small Business Recovery Resources
The California government has mobilized resources to support businesses and individuals affected by the Los Angeles wildfires. The California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) has created a list of recovery resources on the Outsmart Disaster website, including Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) and Business Recovery Centers (BRCs) for federal and state assistance. There are also grant programs available, like the LA Region Small Business and Worker Relief Funds and tax relief from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. These initiatives aim to facilitate the recovery process for those impacted by the wildfires.
The Road Ahead
The path ahead will be complicated and will include regulatory obstacles, rising construction expenses, and changes in investor confidence. In spite of these difficulties, rebuilding initiatives present an opportunity to rejuvenate the industrial sector and tackle current market disparities. That's where Canon Business Properties, Inc. comes in. If your commercial or industrial property has been compromised by the LA wildfires, know that our commercial construction management services in Huntington Beach, CA, can help. As property owners in LA recover, we'll be there by their side to help rebuild and navigate the nuanced interplay of economic, regulatory, and environmental factors affecting our market's future.
Canon Business Properties, Inc.: The Premier Choice for Commercial Property Management
At Canon, we have learned over time that having an intimate knowledge of virtually every specific investment product - and the resources to bring those products to the table for our clients - allows us to be full service in every conceivable way. And that, in a nutshell, is what separates Canon from all the others: handling just about every aspect of your commercial property management, construction, and brokerage needs.
After all, caring for real estate requires complete transparency and honesty on all fronts. That's exactly what you will get from Alexander Radosevic and Canon Business Properties, Inc. Contact us today to schedule your discovery call and to learn more about why so many business owners, families, real estate investors, sovereign wealth funds, and high-net-worth individuals choose our firm.
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Latest News in Huntington Beach, CA
Limo-sized dead grey whale washes ashore in Huntington Beach, cause of death a mystery
Hindustan Timeshttps://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/dead-grey-whale-washes-ashore-in-huntington-beach-cause-of-death-a-mystery-101744478573582.html
A dead 25-foot grey whale washed ashore near the Huntington Beach pier on Friday, April 11. The Orange County Register cited the CEO of the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, Glenn Gray, to report that the Laguna Beach-based program responded to the situation early Saturday and a necropsy is underway.Photos of the dead mammal, as long as a stretch version of SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade, surfaced on social media.Read More: ...
A dead 25-foot grey whale washed ashore near the Huntington Beach pier on Friday, April 11. The Orange County Register cited the CEO of the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, Glenn Gray, to report that the Laguna Beach-based program responded to the situation early Saturday and a necropsy is underway.
Photos of the dead mammal, as long as a stretch version of SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade, surfaced on social media.
“Sad to see a large gray whale beached itself this morning in Huntington Beach……supposedly weighed 60,000 lbs which I understand is about average for an adult whale…..now this is the extent of my expertise on gray whales,” a local real estate broker, Lytle G. Warren, wrote on X, platform formerly known as Twitter.
They also posted a photo of the dead grey whale. The cause of death of the female whale is unknown at this time, Gray confirmed to The Orange County Register. The publication further quoted city spokesperson Jennifer Carey saying that the whale washed up Friday near Tower 7. The area has been cordoned off by Huntington Beach Marine Safety.
Read More: Man on solo ocean row surrounded by dozens of whales for hours in surreal encounter
The local media outlet reported that Huntington Beach's Public Works Department has received authorization from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and PMMC to bury the whale on Sunday morning.
Rare minke whale in Long Beach’s Rainbow Harbor
Only last week a rare minke whale had washed up in Long Beach’s Rainbow Harbor. The mammal had to be euthanized on Tuesday, April 8, after getting stuck in shallow waters near the Emeryville Marina in California's San Francisco Bay.
Marine Mammal Center posted on X that the whale had been swimming in the bay when it was ‘temporarily immersed in mud in shallow water at low tide, but remained calm before moving to deeper water on its own’.
The minkewhale was then trapped and was unable to be freed from the mudflat. The organization further stated that because of this ‘the animal was suffering and had little chance of survival’.
Energy company seeks to convert Huntington Beach oil and gas complex to large-scale oceanfront housing
Matt Szabohttps://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/news/story/2025-04-09/energy-company-seeks-to-convert-huntington-beach-oil-parcel-to-large-scale-oceanfront-housing
Staff WriterA desirable stretch of oceanfront land in Huntington Beach could switch from an oil and gas production complex to housing, a hotel and more.Energy company California Resources Corp. (formerly Occidental Petroleum’s California operations) has announced it has applied to rezone its 92-acre property, which runs from Goldenwest Street to Seapoint Street on the inland side of Pacific Coast Highway.C.R.C.’s proposal seeks to transform th...
Staff Writer
A desirable stretch of oceanfront land in Huntington Beach could switch from an oil and gas production complex to housing, a hotel and more.
Energy company California Resources Corp. (formerly Occidental Petroleum’s California operations) has announced it has applied to rezone its 92-acre property, which runs from Goldenwest Street to Seapoint Street on the inland side of Pacific Coast Highway.
C.R.C.’s proposal seeks to transform the 1.2-mile long site from industrial use into space featuring up to 800 residential units, a hotel and open space.
“The goal of this project is to shape the future of the property with the evolving needs of the local community,” said Bob Grundstrom, C.R.C.’s senior vice president of business development, in a statement. “We recognize the importance of thoughtful growth and understand the community’s concerns about high-density housing — and that’s not what this is. By transitioning the property from an industrial site to a mixed-use community, we’re not only creating housing and economic opportunities but also ensuring that this coastal asset serves residents and visitors for generations to come.”
Nital Patel, C.R.C.’s external relations manager, said the company wants to build up to 800 residential units on about 53 acres of the property, or slightly more than half of it. They would be a mixture of single-family detached homes, townhouses and condos, with 10% complying with affordable housing policies.
The space would also include up to 350 hotel rooms on approximately 16 acres, which would also feature retail and dining options. The remaining 23 acres would be open space, including a 1-mile linear park along PCH.
C.R.C.’s application, submitted to the city on March 28, proposes to amend the city’s Palm/Goldenwest specific plan, which currently designates 94% of the property for commercial uses. The Long Beach-based company’s application also includes updates to Huntington Beach’s general plan and local coastal program, since the property is in the coastal zone. The California Coastal Commission would have to approve any change of the local coastal program.
The Huntington Beach Planning Commission and City Council also need to sign off on the rezoning.
“Following the required approvals, existing oil and gas facilities would be removed and the site would be restored for future development,” Patel said in an email. “We will work closely with the city of Huntington Beach and other relevant agencies to ensure that all environmental and regulatory standards are met throughout the remediation and redevelopment process.”
Patel added that development is not expected to begin for several years, and C.R.C. will continue to provide energy resources at the site in the meantime.
The development news comes months after the previous council unanimously approved the Magnolia Tank Farm Project, which would also be on the site of a former oil pumping and storage facility in southeast Huntington Beach.
National High School Invitational: No. 1 Corona, Huntington Beach win in walk-off fashion
Tarek Fattalhttps://www.si.com/high-school/baseball/national-high-school-invitational-no-1-corona-huntington-beach-win-in-walk-off-fashion-01jrek581y7m
The National High School Invitational is the most heralded high school baseball event in the country. The tournament puts all the best prep baseball programs in America into one bracket, which brings the MLB scouts out in droves with radar guns ... and saliva.The lede for Day 1 of the tournament came from No. 1-ranked Corona (Calif.) vs. Casteel (Ariz.). The Panthers, who ...
The National High School Invitational is the most heralded high school baseball event in the country. The tournament puts all the best prep baseball programs in America into one bracket, which brings the MLB scouts out in droves with radar guns ... and saliva.
The lede for Day 1 of the tournament came from No. 1-ranked Corona (Calif.) vs. Casteel (Ariz.). The Panthers, who won the Boras Classic in Southern California two weekends ago, rolled into the first-round matchup 11-0.
The unbeaten streak was in jeopardy when Corona was trailing by two runs in the bottom of the seventh inning before Ethin Bingaman hit a walk-off single to clinch a dramatic 8-7 victory Wednesday afternoon in Cary, North Carolina.
Bingaman's clutch moment came with two outs on a 2-and-2 count.
Corona started Mason Sims on the bump, the team's No. 4 pitcher, to preserve standouts like Seth Hernandez and Jason Gerfers the rest of the way.
Corona will play Columbus (Fla.) in the quarterfinal Thursday. Corona is the defending NHSI champion after defeating Huntington Beach in the 2024 final.
HUNTINGTON BEACH WALKS OFF
Huntington Beach, another marquee Southern California program, needed some magic in Wednesday's 5-4 victory in eight innings over Poly Prep Country Day (N.Y.).
The Oilers overcame a three-run deficit before Cole Clark delivered a walk-off hit in extras to advance Huntington Beach to the quarterfinals against Collierville (Tenn.).
WEDNESDAY'S 1ST ROUND SCORES
Christopher Columbus 5, Edwardsville 3
Huntington Beach 5, Poly Prep 4
Trinity Christian Academy 8, The Stony Brook School 2
Regis Jesuit 3, Wesleyan Christian 1
Collierville 8, Holly Springs 1
THURSDAY'S QUARTERFINALS SCHEDULE
Regis Jesuit vs. Trinity Christian Academy
Christopher Columbus vs. Corona
Collierville vs. Huntington Beach
Corona del Sol vs. Venice
Bookmark High School on SI for all of the latest high school sports news.
To get live updates on your phone — as well as follow your favorite teams and top games — you can download the SBLive Sports app:
Judge sides with Huntington Beach on voter ID ordinance
Joe Taglierihttps://heysocal.com/2025/04/08/judge-sides-with-huntington-beach-on-voter-id-ordinance/
A judge on Monday decided in favor of Huntington Beach in the city’s legal battle with the state over an ordinance requiring voters to show identification when casting a ballot.City officials contend that as a charter city it has special authority to approve an ordinance that conflicts with state law. State officials claim that California law takes precedence.“There is no showing that a voter identification requirement compromises the integrity of a municipal election,” Orange County Superior Court Judge Nick ...
A judge on Monday decided in favor of Huntington Beach in the city’s legal battle with the state over an ordinance requiring voters to show identification when casting a ballot.
City officials contend that as a charter city it has special authority to approve an ordinance that conflicts with state law. State officials claim that California law takes precedence.
“There is no showing that a voter identification requirement compromises the integrity of a municipal election,” Orange County Superior Court Judge Nick Dourbetas wrote in his ruling Monday. “Municipal election results do not lack integrity because only residents of a municipality who are eligible to vote participated in the election.”
Huntington Beach voters approved Measure A by more than 53% of ballots cast in March 2024. The measure’s passage and subsequent City Council adoption prompted a lawsuit filed by California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley Weber, along with Huntington Beach resident Mark Bixby. They asked the court to strike down Measure A because “the Huntington Beach City Charter is preempted by and violates California law,” Bonta argued.
Mayor Pat Burns said the ruling “is a huge victory not only for our city but charter cities throughout the state. … We have not only successfully defended our city’s voter ID law, but also the constitutional authority of charter cities rights from attacks by the attorney general and the state of California,” he said in a statement. “We will not back down in our efforts to secure local control over our local issues and will continue to fight for the city.”
City Attorney Mike Vigliotta said he was “pleased that Superior Court carefully analyzed the law and came to the correct conclusion” based on the state Constitution giving charter cities the authority to govern their own affairs.
“The U.S. Supreme Court has already determined that voter ID does not violate the right to vote,” Vigliotta said in a statement. “While we anticipate this fight isn’t over, we are pleased with the court’s fair and just evaluation of the weakness of the state and Bixby’s legal case.”
State officials blasted the judge’s decision.
“Yet again, we believe the Orange County Superior Court got it wrong,” Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement. “Earlier this year, the California Fourth District Court of Appeal wrote that Huntington Beach’s argument that ‘it had a constitutional right to regulate its own municipal elections free from state interference … is … problematic.’ We agree.”
Bonta’s office intends to appeal the ruling and is “confident that Measure A will ultimately be struck down,” he said.
“The court got it wrong. Access to the ballot box is a key component of our democracy,” Secretary of State Shirley Weber said in a statement. “The court’s order is in direct conflict with California election laws and will result in disenfranchising California voters.”
If courts OK the ordinance, it would go into effect in 2026.
OC Judge Greenlights Huntington Beach Voter ID Rules for Local Elections
Noah Biesiadahttps://voiceofoc.org/2025/04/oc-judge-greenlights-huntington-beach-voter-id-rules-for-local-elections/
Huntington Beach officials got approval from an Orange County Superior Court judge to move ahead with implementing voter ID rules.Judge Nico Dourbetas’s Monday ruling could mean Surf City will be the first California city to mandate voter ID for in-person voting, despite state Attorney General Rob Bonta’s objections.The lawsuit from Bonta focuses on a ballot measure approved by Huntington Beach voters last year, allowing city leaders to require IDs for in-person voting in Surf City.The ordinance was quickly c...
Huntington Beach officials got approval from an Orange County Superior Court judge to move ahead with implementing voter ID rules.
Judge Nico Dourbetas’s Monday ruling could mean Surf City will be the first California city to mandate voter ID for in-person voting, despite state Attorney General Rob Bonta’s objections.
The lawsuit from Bonta focuses on a ballot measure approved by Huntington Beach voters last year, allowing city leaders to require IDs for in-person voting in Surf City.
The ordinance was quickly challenged by both Bonta and California Secretary of State Shirley Weber, who argued cities can’t override the state law banning voter ID.
[Read: CA Attorney General Sues Huntington Beach Over Voter ID Law]
Dourbetas ruled that they can, so long as the voter IDs are only required to vote in local elections and not statewide races.
That means if the city moves ahead with voter ID, officials could have to send voters two separate ballots – one for statewide races that require no voter IDs, and a second for local races that do.
“There is no showing that a voter identification requirement compromises the integrity of a municipal Election,” wrote Dourbetas in his ruling. “Municipal election results do not lack integrity because only residents of a municipality who are eligible to vote participated in the election.”
In a statement issued Monday afternoon, Attorney General Rob Bonta said they would be appealing the decision.
“Yet again, we believe the Orange County Superior Court got it wrong,” Bonta wrote. “We remain confident that Measure A will ultimately be struck down.”
In a statement last February, the appellate court also raised concerns about Huntington Beach’s elections being consolidated with the state’s if they implement voter ID.
“Municipal elections, including those in the City, are typically held in conjunction with statewide elections, and involve the same ballot, personnel, infrastructure, polling places, and voter registration,” the judges wrote. “Consolidation with the statewide elections takes the City’s municipal elections outside the home rule doctrine.”
Huntington Beach Mayor Pat Burns and City Attorney Mike Vigliotta said the city would continue the fight in court to ensure voter ID moves ahead.
“We will not back down in our efforts to secure local control over our local issues and will continue to fight for the City,” Burns wrote in a Monday statement.
It’s one of the few issues where the city has won in court against the state of California over a series of lawsuits regarding voter ID and housing, with the city’s legal team arguing that as a charter city, Huntington Beach has the power to write its own local rules.
Monday’s ruling came after Dourbetas previously said he couldn’t rule on the issue because the city hadn’t written its specific rules on how voter ID would be rolled out yet, but an appellate court ordered him to make a decision in February.
Noah Biesiada is a Voice of OC reporter and corps member with Report for America, a GroundTruth initiative. Contact him at nbiesiada@voiceofoc.org.
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