STATEMENT BY MAYOR VILLARAIGOSA REGARDING LYDIA KENNARD STEPPING DOWN AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF LOS ANGELES WORLD AIRPORTS

(Los Angeles, California – January 2, 2007) Los Angeles Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa today made the following statement regarding the resignation of Lydia Kennard as executive director of Los Angeles World Airports.

"Lydia Kennard is a consummate leader. With her capable hand and clear-sighted vision, she piloted L.A. World Airports to new heights, keeping operations running safely and smoothly while bringing us closer to our ultimate destination -- creating a truly regional approach to air travel.

"Her invaluable leadership and consensus building skills set a course for our airports for this generation and beyond.

"I am delighted that Lydia intends to stay on board as an advisor to the Board of Airport Commissioners, where she will assist in the global search for a successor and continue to provide expert advice on the LAX Master Plan. I want to thank this superb public servant for her continuing contribution to Los Angeles.

"I have asked the Airport Commission to conduct an international search to recruit and hire a world-class leader who will keep L.A. World Airports on its current trajectory. That search is already underway."