It's official: Anthony Coghill has made his widely-anticipated entrance into the race to replace Jim Motznik in City Council District 4. He joins Natalia Rudiak and Patrick Reilly as a declared candidate in this race, which is wide-open now that Motznik is running for district justice instead.

Coghill is likely the most familiar name in the race so far. He lost to Motznik in a squeaker back in 2005. The owner of a roofing business, he has also been a liasion for state Senator Wayne Fontana. Highlights from his press release follow below:

"I was born and raised in the Shadycrest area of Beechview," Coghill said. "I bought a home here, started my business here, and have lived in this community for over forty years. The concerns of my neighbors are mine as well – we all live here and want what's best for our community. This district has been neglected for far too long. I am confident that I can be a proactive force for Carrick, Overbrook, Bon Air, Brookline, Beechview and the areas of Mt. Washington that are represented by District 4 on City Council."

Upon his election, Coghill intends to focus upon what he sees as the main issues in the community – public safety, economic development, City services, efficient government and will build upon his existing relationships with other elected officials to improve District 4.