The following statement was released to media outlets at Mr. Pressburg's March 20, 2010 traditional "meet and greet" election-cycle brunch (held at his NLB home regularly for many years):
Today it is with deep regret that I must withdraw as a candidate for city council in the 9th council district. The reason for this action is because of health issues. I have a blood clot in my right leg that complicates a birth defect that I was diagnosed with. Although neither are life threatening by themselves, the combination of the two places [puts] me at high risk. I will be under a doctor's care and treatment over the next year and that could affect the performance of duties should I be elected.
The people of North Long Beach should have someone who can hit the ground running and deliver a vision that is in inclusive and protects the taxpayer. That vision must restore public safety by starting the process for a police and fire academy and one that deals with youth and gang violence intervention and prevention. There must be new budget reform that deals with our needs instead of the traditional budget method that rewards overspending and its pension potholes. North Long Beach must prepare to have shovel ready projects that protect RDA dollars so are not an easy target and the piggy bank for projects across the city. We must place people before politics and protect and utilize adaptive reuse and continue to restore our neighborhoods and community.
Currently, I am not supporting or endorsing anyone and am turning my efforts to just getting well and restoring my health. I would like to thank my campaign manager and the many volunteers who have devoted their time and efforts to this campaign. This was not an easy decision. I would also like to thank the media for their fairness and coverage. Thank you all once again.
Sincerely,
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