Hours after City Council colleague Tim Burgess dropped in on the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, new Councilmember Mike O’Brien spoke last night with the 34th District Democrats at their monthly meeting in Fauntleroy. His opening remarks focused on the 520 bridge battle and city energy audits, but a few sparks flew during questions from the floor, about the South Park Bridge and its scheduled June shutdown. O’Brien said he was “given false credit” for defeating the 2007 ballot measure that included $110 million to replace the bridge; he was the local Sierra Club president at the time, and while he said he’s always supported the SP bridge, the overall package was opposed because “the conversation has to be about preserving and maintaining infrastructure, and not expanding.” (More on the South Park Bridge coming up later this morning, in our story about another SP meeting last night.) O’Brien also was asked about White Center annexation – since Mayor McGinn has asked the council to consider a November ballot measure in northern North Highline; he said he’d met with local supporters of Seattle annexation and will meet with opponents too, but right now he’s in favor of going ahead and asking local residents to make their choice by voting; he also acknowledged the council must consider the costs involved (right now, a financial analysis is in the works).

Also last night, the 34th DDs heard from the second Democrat to join the race for State House, Position 2, Sabra Schneider (photo at left is by Dina Johnson); her campaign announcement was published here last month … There was a panel discussion with four speakers discussing job creation – not just in the region, but specifically, in this district, with suggestions including making sure that major local projects employ West Seattle workers. The overview consensus was that job growth will be slow in the short term; “green jobs” are a growth industry, and public policy requiring more energy-efficient buildings will help create jobs. … This Sunday’s 34th Legislative District Democratic Caucus (announcement here) will also feature a food drive, those in attendance were reminded, so bring nonperishable food if you’re going to the caucus at Mount View Elementary in White Center (signups start at 12:15).