A 'dogged' mayor heading into final year

Heading in to his final full year in office, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said he refuses to let the soft economy stop him from pushing for bold initiatives as the city continues to fight its way out of the recession next year. | Spotlight cools on mayor's personal life Daily News,

"I am dogged," Villaraigosa said in an interview in his City Hall offices after his return from a trade mission to China. "When I say I'm dogged, I'm like a Chihuahua. I don't give up. I keep after it until I get something done."

Villaraigosa said he is now focusing only on what can be accomplished in his final 18 months in office, and is not motivated by anything that would position himself for a future political office. He will continue to push for development and tax reform, seek to finalize funds for the 30/10 plan, and continue work on green reforms for the city.