Local real estate broker and longtime Burbank Planning Commission member Christopher Rizzotti announced this week his campaign for the Burbank City Council election in November.
Rizzotti seeks one of two soon-to-be expired seats on the dais; those currently held by Mayor Nick Schultz and Councilman Konstantine Anthony. The two incumbents are seeking office in the 44th Assembly District and the Los Angeles County 5th Supervisorial District respectively but could seek reelection on Council if unsuccessful in the upcoming March election.
“I’m reaching out with excitement and a heart full of passion for our hometown: Burbank,” wrote Rizzotti in a letter announcing his run. “It’s a place I’ve called home all my life. It has been an honor to serve on the city of Burbank Planning Board for the past 12 years and for the past several years, our city’s Charter Review Committee. It’s a privilege to now step forward and run for the Burbank City Council.”
On the planning commission, Rizzotti is tasked with making policy recommendations to the Council regarding the long-term growth of the community and guiding development through the permit review process to implement the city’s adopted land use plans.
He’s overseen hundreds of projects during his time on the panel, including the Hollywood Burbank Airport’s new replacement passenger terminal, the Warner Bros. Second Century and Ranch Lot studio developments and Providence Saint Joseph’s new emergency room wing.
Rizzotti’s main gig, though, is selling homes, and he prides himself on being a top seller in the community, having been named in Real Trends American’s best top 1.5% producers in the nation.
“This city, with its vibrant spirit and close-knit community, has given me so much. Now, it’s my turn to give back. I’m eager to bring a wave of fresh ideas and energy to the Council, to tackle the challenges we face with creativity and critical thinking,” said Rizzotti.
Rizzotti gave a glimpse into the issues he will run his campaign on over the next nine months: safeguarding Burbank neighborhoods, advancing sustainable practices, and addressing homelessness, he wrote.
“Burbank is a community where everyone belongs, and I’m committed to ensuring it stays that way. … These are not just policies to me, they’re personal commitments,” he stated.
Rizzotti ran in 2014 and told the Leader then that it is fundamental to have on Council a member who brings business experience and acumen to the table.
He was unsuccessful in his bid, losing to former Council members Emily Gabel-Luddy and Will Rogers, who took their seats in 2015. He received 3,558 votes to their respective 5,135 and 5,305 votes.
Still, Rizzotti said that this campaign is a dream come true for him and that he is looking forward to connecting with as many Burbank voters as possible before the 2024 California General Election in November.
“With your support, I believe we can achieve incredible things for our community,” Rizzotti stated at the conclusion of his letter. “I promise to be a listener first and foremost, always prioritizing your voices and your vision for our city. Working together, we can ensure Burbank continues to be a place we’re all proud to call home. … Thank you for considering my candidacy. Let’s make the future of Burbank as bright as its people.”
First published in the February 24 print issue of the Burbank Leader.
