Former Councilman Won’t Work for Holden

After days of controversy, former Los Angeles City Councilman Rudy Svorinich Jr. said he has decided to turn down a $3,800-a-month job as a transportation consultant for Councilman Nate Holden.

Svorinich, who left office in June, said Monday that he is preparing to start his own consulting firm, after a summer of vacationing with his family.

He told Holden in a letter that he appreciated the “very kind opportunity” to join his staff.

“Knowing that my knowledge and expertise may be of assistance, I remain available to advise you personally whenever the need arises on an informal basis,” Svorinich wrote.

Holden touched off a controversy last week when he confirmed that he was placing Svorinich and former Councilman Mike Hernandez on his staff as paid consultants until they could find employment elsewhere. Hernandez has been unavailable for comment since the issue arose.