SAN DIEGO -- Oceanside City Councilwoman Esther Sanchez was appointed to the California Coastal Commission Friday by Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, D-Los Angeles.

Also appointed to the 12-member Coastal Commission, which regulates development activities along the coast, was Santa Cruz County Supervisor Mark Stone.

"I have appointed Oceanside City Councilmember Esther Sanchez and Santa Cruz County Supervisor Mark Stone to the Coastal Commission because, as elected leaders of their own coastal communities, they have shown a deep appreciation of how maintaining the health, safety and beauty of the coast can be a catalyst for tourism, fishing, recreation and sustainable economic growth," Bass said.

Sanchez has been on the Oceanside City Council since 2000.

"In ensuring developing projects are consistent with the vision Californians have for their beloved coastline, the Coastal Commission should listen closely to, and be reflective of, the communities it serves," Sanchez said. "As a first generation Latina, born and raised in Oceanside by working class parents, I will do my best to be a voice for all Californians in guiding responsible planning of our coast."

Sanchez and Stone will serve four-year terms. Sanchez is taking the San Diego region's spot for elected officials on the Commission which up to now has been occupied by San Diego City Council President Ben Hueso. Hueso, who has announced his intention to run for state Assembly, was nominated for the position again.

Also vying for the seat were San Diego City Councilwoman Donna Frye, Carlsbad City Council members Keith Blackburn and Ann Kulchin, Chula Vista Councilman Steve Castaneda and Coronado Councilwoman Carrie Downey.