Krekorian may run for L.A. council

BURBANK — Democratic Assemblyman Paul Krekorian is “strongly considering” a new job.

The Burbank resident, who now has an apartment in Valley Glen, said in a statement that he is contemplating a move to the Los Angeles City Council to replace Councilwoman Wendy Greuel, who was elected earlier this year to be L.A.’s city controller effective July 1. Greuel’s seat represents Council District 2, which covers a portion of the San Fernando Valley that overlaps with Krekorian’s constituency, the 43rd Assembly District.

Krekorian has not entered the race for Greuel’s seat and has simply announced that he is considering the switch to city government, but he has positioned himself to officially declare his candidacy by taking up residence within the district before the June 6 deadline.

“I’ve been approached by many supporters who have suggested that I consider serving the people of the San Fernando Valley in a new capacity, and building on the successes I’ve achieved in the Assembly by running for the Los Angeles City Council,” Krekorian said in a statement. “I am exploring this opportunity to serve, and I am discussing that option with friends and supporters whose outlooks I value to inform what will be a forthcoming decision and announcement.”

If Krekorian chooses to run for the council, he must submit a candidate intention form between July 6 and 11 in advance of a special election that Los Angeles City Clerk June Lagmay has scheduled for Sept. 22.

Rumors of a potential Krekorian move have already stirred interest in his Assembly seat.

“There are lots of conversations going on,” said Lee Wochner, founding president of the Burbank Democratic Club and a delegate for the California Democratic Party’s executive board.

Krekorian has established himself as a popular assemblyman who has made important strides, particularly related to helping the entertainment industry, Wochner said.

One of Krekorian’s bills aimed at preventing runaway film productions was successfully signed into law and earned him widespread praise because it will support local businesses, Wochner said.

But if Krekorian decides to leave the Assembly, his state efforts could end sooner than expected, although Krekorian will continue to represent local residents if he is elected to Greuel’s seat, Wochner said.