2005 was some year for San Diego politics, eh? From the series of indictments to a slew of mayoral races, 2005 will go down as one of the most turbulent years in San Diego’s history.

But not all was lost. Our own Toni Atkins made her mark on San Diego history, becoming the city’s first openly lesbian mayor following the resignations of Mayor Dick Murphy and Deputy Mayor Michael Zucchet. And despite the loss of community favorite Donna Frye for mayor, victor Jerry Sanders is proving to be an ally to our community early on in his term.

Out of the gate, Sanders was at a disadvantages with GLBT voters due to his stances on marriage equality and the Boy Scouts preferential land lease in Balboa Park, but a portion of the community believed Sanders would rise to the occasion, and that his gay-friendly persona and commitment to equal rights was more than just lip service. They may prove to be right.

Four members of the GLBT community have recently been elected or appointed to prominent positions – three of which were appointed by Sanders himself. This is an indication that the doors of City Hall will not be closed to our community, but, in fact, will be open and welcoming.

These four leaders, especially those working closely with our new mayor, now have a responsibility to lead on our issues and work with Sanders to advance the rights of our community.

The Fantastic Four are:

Jeff Gattas, former chief of staff to Councilmember Toni Atkins, has been appointed as the director of council liaison. As Jan. 1 rings in the new strong mayor form of government, Gattas will act as the liaison for the mayor’s office and City Council.

Fred Sainz, former Center board treasurer and two-year chair of San Diego AIDS Walk, is the communications director and press secretary for the mayor’s office. He will act as the chief spokesperson for both the mayor and Ronnie Froman, Sander’s appointed CEO.

Jennifer LeSar, senior vice president with Bank of America, past Center board chair and Deputy Mayor Toni Atkins’ significant other, has been elected board chair to the San Diego Centre City Development Corporation. Sanders personally lobbied to have LeSar elected to the seat.

The last member of this foursome was not appointed by Sanders but should be recognized as a GLBT dynamo nonetheless. Kevin Tilden, director of communications for American Water and a Center board member, was elected board chair of the San Diego Convention Center Corporation, which manages, markets and operates the San Diego Convention Center and the San Diego Civic Theatre.

These are no token appointments. All four are strong, qualified community leaders with a history of professional experience and service to our community.

Beyond the duties that come with these appointments, they have the unique opportunity to bring GLBT issues forward and shape public opinion in favor of our community. Their presence in these roles will help debunk myths about gays and lesbians, and further educate people about who we are and what we stand for.

Congratulations to all four.

In addition to these appointments, 2006 shows promise for our community. Sanders has already voiced his intention to spearhead a new clean-needle exchange program in San Diego. Reintroducing this legislation to the council is an encouraging start to the New Year.

Without a doubt, San Diego has plenty of challenges to add to its own list of New Year’s resolutions. These early signs from Sanders give us hope that our community will be part of the solution.