By Jorge Casuso

August 5, 2010 – Ending more than a week of speculation, Councilman Bob Holbrook said he will file papers Thursday to run for a sixth four-year term.

“I’m going to go for four years,” Holbrook said. “I’m looking forward to the battle. I’ve been around for a long time. I’m not going to back down from a fight.”

Holbrook -- who for two decades has led the opposition to Santa Monicans for Renters’ Rights (SMRR) -- would go head-to-head with a full SMRR slate if incumbent Pam O’Conner wins the group’s endorsement Friday.

O'Connor -- who is seeking a fifth four-year term -- needs eight votes cast by the 12-member committee to join incumbent Kevin McKeown and Planning Commissioner Ted Winterer on the SMRR ticket in the race for three four-year seats.

The group already has endorsed incumbents Gleam Davis and Terry O'Day -- who were appointed by the council after the deaths of Ken Genser and Herb Katz -- in the race for two two-year council seats.

Holbrook was considering running against Davis and O’Day, who he beat soundly four years ago. Winning in the race for a tow year seat would allow him to run with Mayor Bobby Shriver if the Kennedy family member decides to seek a third term in 2012.

Holbrook, who has been on the council since 1990, is confident he will win another four-year term.

“I manage to win every time,” said Holbrook, “and I’ll win this time.”

"I'm going to go for four years. I'm looking forward to the battle. I've been around for a long time. I'm not going to back down from a fight."
   Bob Holbrook