George Thomas to run again for city council

By John Loesing Acorn Staff Writer

George Thomas

George Thomas, an unsuccessful candidate for Agoura Hills City Council in 2001, announced he’s running again this November.

"Last time I ran and lost. This time I want to know what it’s like to run and win," said Thomas, 26.

Two seats are up for election on Nov. 4. Incumbent Dan Kuperberg is seeking reelection, but veteran City Councilwoman Louise Rishoff said she isn’t running again.

Thomas works for a San Fernando Valley newspaper establishing new businesses. He honed his political knowledge as a current events radio talk show host for KCLU-FM in Thousand Oaks and also worked as a staff member for U.S. Rep. Brad Sherman from 1997 to 2001.

Unlike the 2001 election, his first foray into politics, Thomas said he plans to the walk precincts and meet as many voters as possible.

"My top priorities are acquiring more open space, reducing traffic and addressing economic development issues," Thomas said. "The rustic and rural atmosphere of Agoura Hills needs to be preserved, and I will seek to find the necessary funding to purchase additional parcels of land."

Thomas said he would support the decision of voters with regards to a proposed change in the redevelopment of Agoura Road south of the 101 Freeway. A ballot measure is being planned that would enable a large retail department store and fashion mall.

"The economic development of Agoura Hills is very important and our city is at a crossroads." Thomas said. "I believe increasing the retail sales tax base will help generate the necessary revenue to pay for fixing the 101-Kanan interchange. The additional revenue could also be used to purchase open space, as well as for a variety of other things."

So far there are four candidates for the two Agoura Hills seats: Kuperberg, Thomas, local attorney Steve Rishoff and Agoura/Oak Park/Las Virgenes Chamber of Commerce President Alex Soteras.

Agoura Hills City Council candidates must file their documents with the city clerk by 5 p.m. Fri., Aug. 14.