(May 12, 2005) -- Veteran LB City Attorney Bob Shannon has formally announced his intention to seek re-election in 2006.

"Since my election in 1998 and re-election in 2002, I have worked to provide the citizens of Long Beach with the first rate, independent legal services they deserve and rightfully expect. With a staff of 67, including 22 attorneys, the Long Beach City Attorney's office is widely respected throughout California for its aggressiveness, efficiency, experience, and municipal legal expertise. If re-elected, I pledge to continue my efforts to maintain and enhance that tradition of excellence," City Attorney Shannon said in a release on his campaign [non-City Hall] letterhead.

The letterhead lists as the Shannon campaign's honorary co-chairs two prominent LB lawyers: Samuel A. Keesal, Jr. and Edward P. George.

The LB City Charter designates the City Attorney as "the sole and exclusive legal advisor of the City, the City Council and all City commissions, committees, officers and employees with reference to all of their functions, powers and duties under...State and Federal law."