Call him Councilman-elect

With his opponent finally conceding last month's runoff election, former Assemblyman Paul Koretz on Saturday said he finally feels comfortable with the title of councilman-elect for the 5th City Council District.
"I guess that makes it somewhat semi-official," Koretz said after being told that opponent David Vahedi was conceding the election. "It gives me a chance to complete some interviews and begin to hire a staff."
Vahedi, on Friday, told the Daily News he was conceding the close-fought election as returns continue to come in and widening the gap between the two.
The most recent figures show Vahedi trailing 17,825 to 19,547 for Koretz.The final returns are expected June 19.
Koretz said he also has begun to think about committee assignments he would like to see once he takes office officially on July 1.
"Transportation is one of the top issues for the district," Koretz said. "On the west side, we have severe problems and in the Valley, I would like to see us expand the Orange Line."
He also is interested in government efficiency and environmental issues, areas in which he has worked as a member of the state Assembly.
Koretz is succeeding Councilman Jack Weiss, who gave up the seat to run for City Attorney.
Since the election, Koretz said he has been trying to deal with calls from constituents who are urging him to try to influence city decisions.
"I'm not in the office yet and I tell them to wait just a bit longer," Koretz said.