ESCONDIDO - The city's firefighter and police unions announced this week they are endorsing incumbent Councilwoman Marie Waldron and candidate Dick Daniels for City Council, and Mayor Lori Holt Pfeiler in the mayoral race.

The 185-member Escondido Police Officer Association and 90-member Escondido Firefighters Association each chose the three candidates, who are among nine community members seeking office this Nov. 7.

Waldron, 46, is seeking a third term. Daniels, 64, is a public relations specialist who has been active in the community for several years.

Waldron and Daniels are among seven candidates vying for two open seats on the council. The other candidates are Darol Caster, a planning commissioner; Olga Diaz, owner of Blue Mug Coffee & Tea; Elizabeth Gabrych, a member of the housing advisory committee; Carmen Miranda, a teacher assistant; and Erik Richard, chief executive of Lake San Marcos Resort & Country Club.

Pfeiler, who is seeking her third term as mayor and fifth on the council, is being challenged by former Councilman Tom D'Agosta.

In recent weeks, Waldron, Daniels and Pfeiler have also received endorsements from the Escondido Chamber of Commerce and the Republican Party of San Diego.