By Gina Cuclis

This is a follow up to a Nov. 18, 2009 post about the recall of former Cotati City Councilman George Barich.



Barich Says He'll Run Again

In November 2009, less than one year after taking office, George Barich was recalled by 65% of Cotati voters casting ballots in a special election. Barich became the subject of a recall drive after posting a photo of himself in blackface on his website. He also caused controversy for using City letterhead to send a personal letter to President Obama criticizing the economic stimulus package, and for using Cotati's logo on his personal website.

But that isn't stopping Barich from trying again. He recently announced he will mount a campaign to reclaim a position on the Cotati City Council. There are two seats on the five member council up for grabs this November. The two incumbents, Pat Gilardi and Mark Landman, are also planning to run.

The 52-year-old Barich told the Santa Rosa Press Democrat that response to his campaign "has been overwhelming in support of me representing a voice in the community that is currently missing on the City Council."

Trying to Be the Comeback Kid

You can give Barich credit for his tenacity. It would be surprising if he wins, considering his history. His political views also tend to be more conservative than the majority of progressive leaning Cotati voters. Like the rest of Sonoma County, registered Democrats out number registered Republicans in Cotati roughly two to one.

What is your opinion of Barich's latest campaign? Do you think he has a chance of getting back on the Cotati City Council?