Anaheim city officials have released a 25-page government claim detailing allegations of misconduct against Mayor Ashleigh Aitken, including the use of a racial slur and public intoxication. The filing, submitted by the mayor’s Chief of Staff Berenice Ballinas, has prompted immediate political fallout as the city moves toward an independent investigation.
In the document made public on October 1, 2024, Ballinas alleges that Mayor Aitken used the slur “dirty Mexican” in her presence and made derogatory remarks regarding her sexual orientation. The claim also asserts that the mayor appeared intoxicated while performing official duties, specifically citing a City Council meeting in April and a conference in Palm Springs in May.
The release of these allegations has jeopardized the mayor’s standing with local political allies. Following the disclosure, the Anaheim Police Association’s political action committee officially suspended its endorsement of Aitken. Councilmember Norma Campos Kurtz stated that she would seek the mayor’s resignation if the allegations in the claim are proven to be true.
Alleged Conduct at Disney and Public Events
The claim includes reports of a June incident at Disney’s exclusive Club 33. According to the filing, Disney sent written correspondence to the city reporting that Aitken made “rude, insensitive, and inappropriate remarks” during a visit to the venue. The incident reportedly resulted in the suspension of a third party’s membership at the club due to the mayor’s alleged behavior.
Ballinas, who has been on leave since late July, further alleges that she faced professional retaliation for reporting the mayor’s conduct. The claim asserts that Ballinas was denied a previously approved pay raise after she raised concerns about workplace harassment and the mayor’s public behavior.
Independent Investigation and Defense
Mayor Aitken has denied the most severe allegations, specifically the use of a racial slur. In a statement addressing the filing, she indicated she welcomes an independent investigation to address the claims and clear her name. The City of Anaheim has already initiated the process of hiring an independent investigator to review the 25-page filing.
The internal discord follows a period of heightened scrutiny for Anaheim’s leadership. While the city has released the claim as part of the public record, it has not yet validated the specific accounts provided by Ballinas.
The timing of the disclosure adds significant pressure to the mayor’s administration, as the city prepares for upcoming electoral cycles and navigates the formal investigative process. For now, Ballinas remains on leave while the city determines the next steps in the legal and administrative review of her allegations.
