5 File Initial Papers to Challenge Flores

City Councilwoman Joan Milke Flores, who lost her bid for a seat in the U.S. House last week, could face five challengers next April when she is up for reelection.

Spokeswoman Niki Tennant said Flores, who was unavailable for comment, is undecided on whether to seek a fourth term; a decision is expected within the next two weeks. Flores’ 15th Council District stretches from Watts and South-Central to San Pedro and Wilmington.

Five possible contenders have filed papers with the city Ethics Commission declaring their intent to raise funds for campaigns. The papers represent the first step toward declaring candidacy. The five are Los Angeles school board member Warren Furutani; Latino community leader Xavier Hermosillo; Janice K. Hahn, daughter of retiring Supervisor Kenneth Hahn; San Pedro attorney Diane Middleton, and Wilmington businessman Rudolph Svorinich Jr. Flores also has registered with the commission.

Each of those who decide to run will have to file another declaration with the commission between Jan. 20-25, indicating their intent to become a candidate. Between Jan. 30 and Feb. 13, each will have to file a nominating petition with the city clerk’s office.

Although Hermosillo said his decision will hinge on whether Flores runs, Middleton and Svorinich said they will run in any case.

“I want to bring a message of hope and vision to the people of this district,” said Svorinich, a lifelong San Pedro resident.

Hahn and Furutani could not be reached for comment.