(January 2, 2006) -- LBReport.com has confirmed a key point in a Jan. 2 L.A. Times story by Nancy Wride to the effect that Justin Rudd, the Haute Dogs animal advocate and internet promotion whiz who led a successful campaign to create a Dog Zone on part of Belmont Shore's beachfront, is considering a run for the 3d district City Council seat.

"I'm leaning in that direction but I haven't made a final decision," Mr. Rudd told LBReport.com on Jan. 2. "I'm approaching this seriously. I've met with [potential] campaign consultants and I'll be announcing my decision shortly," he added.

Part of the impetus for Mr. Rudd's possible Council run is the Council's November/December conduct (without prior public hearings or meeting with animal advocates) in moving to reverse long-standing LB policy that currently bans dog breeding and instead permit dog breeding on limited terms with payment of a license fee.

Supporters of the policy reversal say it could help persuade national dog sport groups (which dislike bans on dog breeding) to hold their conventions in Long Beach, producing economic benefits for the city. They add that LB's current breeding-ban ordinance is probably unenforceable as written.

But a number of LB animal advocates (including some prominent members of Friends of LB Animals) say LB's dog breeding ban should be mended, not ended...and they bristle at reversing LB policy to suit those outside LB when City Hall kills unwanted dogs daily at LB's Animal Shelter.

If Mr. Rudd enters the race to succeed two-term Councilman (now Mayoral candidate) Frank Colonna, he'll face utility tax-cut leader (2000, Prop J) Norm Ryan, businessman Gary DeLong, real estate agent Charles Legeman and recently announced candidate Audrey Loftin.