Why We Started Encinitas Action
There’s an exhaustion that settles in when the news never stops. It’s not just anger or worry; it’s the feeling that the world is being decided somewhere far away, by people you’ll never meet, in rooms you’ll never enter, while the rest of us are left to react.
But the front line isn’t Washington. It’s local.
It’s the city council agenda that determines whether a neighborhood gets safer crosswalks or faster traffic. Or the commission meeting that shapes how trees are protected, how parks are maintained, how development is reviewed, how public safety programs are structured. And it’s also the tone and conduct of a dais that either invites residents into democracy or teaches them to stay home.
Encinitas Action started because we saw too many good people checking out.
Civic engagement can be treated like a niche hobby for policy wonks, retirees, insiders, or the unusually brave. That’s a mistake. Civic life is not a club for the loudest voices, and it’s not a contest to see who can survive the longest meeting.
Our goal isn’t to tell people what to think. It’s to help people know what’s happening and how to engage effectively. Encinitas Action is not about creating noise. It’s about creating clarity.
Because informed participation is the difference between a public meeting that is representative and one that is performative.
If you’ve ever thought:
- “I care, but I don’t know where to start,”
- “I don’t want to be attacked online,”
- “I’m not political,”
- “My voice won’t matter,”
Then we invite you to join us! And follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and here on our website, where we’ll keep you informed!
Who we are
Bob Ayers, Theresa Beauchamp, Inge Bisconer, Allison Blackwell, Barb Bolton, Scott Chatfield, Stephanie Chatfield, Thea Farber, Fabian Gonell, Marco Gonzalez, Kellie Hinze, Blaire Holtby, Beth Jarosz, Bob Kent, Tony Kranz, Elaine Lewinnek, Kim Piker, Kris Powell, Marlon Taylor
What we are (and aren’t)
Encinitas Action is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit social welfare organization made up of concerned neighbors who care deeply about this community. We are dedicated to civic education, public engagement, and local advocacy, with a mission to help more residents understand local government, follow public issues, and participate in community life. We work to protect the inclusive character of our city and to continue building a community where everyone can thrive. Encinitas Action is a community group, not a PAC, and our goal is to provide honest, transparent information so you can make up your own mind about the future of Encinitas. We love this community, and we believe civic engagement is a form of caring. Contributions to Encinitas Action are not tax-deductible.