Villicana Enters Race for New Mayoral Post
PASADENA — City Councilwoman Ann-Marie Villicana said she will make a bid to be the city’s first elected mayor in March, giving up her 6th District council seat.
Villicana, an attorney and real estate broker, is the first candidate to declare for the position created by voters last week. She will not seek a second term representing her district, Villicana said.
“I believe I represent the new face of Pasadena,†she said. “I expect to knock on a lot of doors, make plenty of calls and wear out more than few pairs of shoes.â€
Villicana, a moderate Republican who comes from a wealthy family, is hoping to woo a cross-section of voters.
She is expected to face Chris Holden, who holds the currently ceremonial title of mayor. Voters this month approved a measure creating a separate office of mayor. Currently, the title is passed among the council.
Holden and Villicana have clashed over the years. She supported ex-City Manager Phil Hawkey while Holden oversaw his ouster. Villicana opposed the investment of city money in the Fair Oaks Renaissance Plaza while Holden supported it. Villicana led efforts to stop an increase in city-owned utility rates while Holden supported the 11% to 15% increase.
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