Pasadena Councilman Censured a Second Time : Government: In a rancorous session, his colleagues urge Isaac Richard to resign, and they weigh suspending some of his privileges. He makes a scathing reply and storms out.

June 10, 1993|EDMUND NEWTON | TIMES STAFF WRITER

The council, meeting in closed session, rejected both of Richard's complaints but sustained Stewart's complaint. Then council members gathered again in the council chambers to censure Richard publicly. By then, however, the council had lost most of its audience and the cable television channel, which broadcasts council meetings, had shut down for the night.

Under the terms of an amendment to the city Charter last year, twice-censured council members could, for a year, be deprived of many of the privileges of council membership--such as travel expenses, free tickets to Rose Bowl events and the use of a city personal computer. The council will consider such action next week.

"We're dealing with a person who has admitted having a serious medical problem and a serious drug problem," Cole said. "There's no evidence that either has been dealt with."

In an interview, Richard said he has no intention of resigning. He termed the censure action as irrelevant, saying his power on the council stems from the support of his constituents. "Every time they try to disempower my people, I will stand up to them," he said.

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