McConkey Is Forced Into Runoff

Councilman Ted McConkey was forced into a runoff in Burbank’s municipal primary Tuesday while fellow incumbent Bob Kramer coasted to victory in his bid for reelection.

Fewer than 20% of the city’s eligible voters cast ballots in the election.

Kramer, a Vietnam War veteran and painting contractor, racked up 5,613 votes to fend off five challengers and win a second term.

Candidates needed more than 50% of the 8,224 votes cast to win outright and avoid a runoff in the general election April 13.

But McConkey, a City Hall outsider known for his outspoken style, found himself in the fight of his political life Tuesday, finishing nearly 200 votes behind magazine editor David Laurell.

Laurell, considered a political novice although he sat on the city’s parks and recreation board, received 3,282 votes against 3,094 garnered by McConkey.

Kramer rejoins Mayor David Golonski, Vice Mayor Stacey Murphy and Councilman Bill Wiggins on the council.

“I’m real excited about winning,” Kramer said. “We’re going to do a lot of great things in the next four years, and I’m glad I’m going to be part of it.”

Candidates who did not get the votes necessary to qualify for the runoff include Talbert Kanigher with 1,308 votes; Marco Gonzalez with 784 votes; Alan Silvers with 655 votes, and Glenn Gujda with 302 votes.

“I think the people of the city of Burbank have stated by this vote that they are very unhappy with my opponent,” Laurell said. “They are looking for a positive and rational voice of reason. They are looking for someone who is effectively independent.”

McConkey said Laurell’s totals were helped by support from the City Council majority and negative press from a local columnist.

In the Burbank Unified School District board race, five candidates were vying for three spots on the five-member panel. Incumbents Mike McDonald and Elena Hubbell breezed to victory, receiving 5,468 and 5,397 votes, respectively. They will be joined by businessman Richard Raad, who received 4,701 votes in his first run for political office.

Finishing behind the leaders were Glen Forsch with 2,181 votes and Norm Furman with 2,205 votes.