Irvine Could Consider it own Utility

Despite a decision to stick with Southern California Edison, a new City Council in the Orange County City of Irvine would re-open the discussion to bring public power to the town:

"We will wait until the new council is seated, and if there is an inclination [to reconsider the issue], we will do it," said Mayor Larry Agran, who voted with Councilwoman Beth Krom to keep the proposal alive. The Irvine City Council is made up of the mayor and four members elected citywide.

The municipal utility issue was at the center of a political clash before the November elections. Outgoing Councilman Chris Mears accused Agran of promoting the utility in order to benefit a political ally who had a financial stake in the outcome.

Agran denied the accusations and called them politically motivated. Agran, who has served his allotted term as mayor but won election to the City Council this month, said his victory was vindication.