LONG BEACH -- Vice Mayor Val Lerch plans to formally launch his bid for third term in early August, according to a candidate statement released Wednesday.
Due to the city's term limit laws, Lerch, who represents the 9th District on the City Council, is running a write-in bid.
Pencil-me-in campaigns can be difficult to win. Former Mayor Beverly O'Neill succeeded, whereas former 5th District Councilwoman Jackie Kell did not.
Since his 2002 election, Lerch has played a part in constructing a new North Long Beach Police Substation, paving dirt alleys, opening the skate park at Houghton Park and attracting a Target store.
As for his reelection bud, Lerch plans to focus on public safety, balancing the city budget and attracting more business to the 9th District.
His opponents have also focused on public safety and economic development as key campaign issues.
Lerch, so far, faces three challengers in the 2010 contest: Brad Shore, who is active in North Long Beach community groups and issues; Dan Pressburg, a financial consultant and former Lerch staff member; and Steve Neal, a social worker who lost to Lerch by 132 votes in 2006.
Lerch plans to kick off his campaign from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 3 at El Ranchito, 5345 Long Beach Blvd.
