W. Hollywood : Marketing Chief to Resign

Rick Cole, executive director of the West Hollywood Marketing Corp. since its inception in 1986, has announced that he will leave his post in November to set up a nonprofit group aimed at involving colleges and universities in solving urban problems.

“I’ve managed to keep several balls in the air for a long time now, and I think it is time for a change,” said Cole, 36, who, as a member of Pasadena’s Board of Directors, is to become vice mayor next May. The board is the equivalent of a city council.

He said that he will stay on at the marketing corporation until Nov. 26, or until a successor can be appointed.

Cole is largely credited with having shaped the nonprofit corporation since its creation by the City Council to promote West Hollywood as a tourist and business destination. The corporation’s budget is about $1 million this year.