City Attorneys

* After reading “Scramble for Power, Patronage” (Nov. 17), I reflected on my own encounters with H. Francisco Leal and J. Arnoldo Beltran over two years ago. I met with them as they were seeking my support in serving as the city attorneys for Huntington Park. At that time, I could not give them my support. However, despite my position, Leal and Beltran remained acquaintances, were always cordial and quite professional. No threats of a recall of my council seat were ever made by Leal or Beltran.

I eventually voted to retain Beltran and Leal and subsequently the Leal firm when the two separated months ago. I made these decisions quite voluntarily and have been pleased with the magnificent service provided since.

I’d also like to add that state Sen. Richard Polanco hasn’t been knocking on my City Hall door either; not asking for donations nor offering. Oddly enough, he has been showing concerns that many of us non-Angelenos in the southeast county share--concern for our public schools.

RIC LOYA

Councilman, Huntington Park