City Officials Cheer April 21 Presidential Visit

When news broke earlier this week that President Barack Obama would be coming to Culver City on April 21 for a re-election fundraiser at Sony Pictures Studio, city officials were delighted.

"I'm very excited," said Mayor Christopher Armenta. "Anything that puts Culver City on the map, such as the president's visit, is something that I look forward to."

City Councilman D. Scott Malsin said much the same.

"I'm very proud," he said, then added about the studio, "It's a great place to have an event."

When asked what resources the Culver City Police Department would have to provide in terms of security, police spokesperson Lt. Ron Iizuka said that he didn't know yet.

"Normally, the Secret Service handles that part of it," he said. As for traffic control and other potential issues, "That depends on what the Secret Service wants."

Both Armenta and Malsin agreed that the visit would probably have costs associated with it, but didn't think they would strain the city's already very tight budget too badly.

"Not for a one-night event," Malsin said about the potential impact. "There are costs involved and benefits. I think the costs are slight compared to the benefits. It's a great opportunity."

"The logistics will have to be worked out with our own city manager," Armenta said. "I'm sure something can be worked out. We want the president to come to our city."

Malsin added that Sony will also probably be involved in planning the visit and providing some of the security.

"Sony is a good partner to work on these things," Malsin said.

Executives at Sony declined to comment.