PoliticsPA has learned that State Representative Kenyatta Johnson will announce his candidacy to replace Anna Verna in Philadelphia City Council at an event on South Broad Street tomorrow. 

Verna, who has represented Philadelphia’s second councilmanic district for almost four decades and became the body’s first female council president eleven years ago, announced last month that she would not seek re-election in 2011.

From Rep. Johnson’s press advisory (which was sent by Mark Nevins, who served as Pennsylvania communications director for Hillary Clinton in 2008 and Kerry-Edwards in 2004):

Representative Johnson, whose state legislative district covers a large portion of the 2nd Council District, has already established a well-deserved reputation for first-rate constituent service as he begins his second term in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

He will announce his interest in running for city council in order to better serve the people and communities he represents.

“Municipal government is where you can really make a difference,” said Rep. Johnson of his decision.  “It’s where the rubber meets the road.  I’ve loved serving my constituents in the legislature, but I know I can do even more for them as a member of city council.”

WHAT:

State Rep. Kenyatta Johnson announces his campaign for the 2nd Council District in Philadelphia’s City Council.

WHO:

State Rep. Kenyatta Johnson

State Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams

Community Leaders

WHERE:

Tindley Temple

750 S. Broad Street

WHEN:

12:00 pm

Saturday, February 5, 2011