THOUSAND OAKS : Candidate Will Hold Voter Open House

Mark Boos Benhard, who plans to announce his candidacy for the congressional seat representing Thousand Oaks next week, will hold a voter open-house meeting on Wednesday.

Residents are invited to attend the 8 p.m. meeting at the home of Dr. Paul and Teri Reisser at 1885 Montgomery Road. Those interested should call (805) 379-4520 or (818) 707-0264.

Benhard, 29, of Agoura, is one of three Republicans expected to battle for the nomination to oppose Democratic Rep. Anthony C. Beilenson, whose 24th District includes Malibu and part of the San Fernando Valley. Benhard, who has already opened a campaign office in Woodland Hills, said he plans to formally announce his candidacy within the next two weeks.

Robert Hammer, a Newbury Park banking consultant, is the only officially declared Republican candidate in the congressional race. Richard Sybert, a former aide to Gov. Pete Wilson, is also expected to enter the race.

So far, no Democratic candidates have stepped forward to challenge Beilenson, who is seeking his 10th term in Congress.

Benhard said he plans to hold a series of open house meetings over the next several months to discuss his campaign to fight crime and reduce taxes.

“We’ve already set up 50 house meetings,” he said. “We hope to hold 100. It’s a way of taking our message directly to the public.”