Actor, Businessman Enters Race for City Council

Actor, businessman and community activist Scott Crawford officially announced his candidacy Monday to replace Eric Garcetti on the City Council as the representative for an area stretching from downtown to Hollywood.

Garcetti is termed out of office in 2013 and is running for mayor.

Crawford, is the first to formally file papers for the Council District 13 seat. He has served on the boards of a range of civic and cultural organizations. He cited his experience with planning and land use, historic preservation, health services, sustainability and housing.

"I have always worked to improve the quality of life in my community," Crawford said in a campaign email. "As I look forward, I've decided the time is now, and I'm going to continue the work, but from within City Hall."

Crawford is a longtime stage actor and has co-owned several acting companies and a catering company. He has served on the boards of a number of civic organizations. He currently sits on the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council Governing Board.

Sen. Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles, is considering entering the race, but is waiting until after the city redistricting process is finished, spokesman John Shallman said.

"Kevin has been encouraged by a lot of folks to consider representing his community on the L.A. City Council. It's an option for him. It's one he's looking at, but it's a little premature,'' Shallman added.

The 13th District stretches from Hollywood to downtown. It's the densest and smallest geographically, including Hollywood, Atwater Village, Silver Lake, Echo Park and Glassell Park.

The election is not until March 5, 2013.