Ex-Fire Chief Decides Not to Run for Council
Retired Long Beach Fire Chief Harold Omel, who had earlier announced he would run for the City Council, has changed his mind.
Omel, 55, who retired Dec. 31 after four years as chief and 30 years with the Fire Department, said in August he would run for the seat being vacated by Les Robbins.
Omel said he and his wife decided that a council seat is a possible eight-year commitment, and they wanted to travel and enjoy their retirement.
The former chief said he plans to remain active in the community but not politics. In June, Omel will become chairman of the Long Beach-area Red Cross.
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