ST. PETERSBURG - It still isn't clear whether City Council Chairman Jamie Bennett's District 5 seat will be up for election in November, but that hasn't stopped political hopefuls from eyeing the position.

Will Michaels, vice president of the Council of Neighborhood Associations, has already met with Bennett to discuss the mechanics of the job and whether he should run.

Now, social worker Steve Kornell has announced he is considering entering the race. Kornell also met with Bennett and earlier this week he held an informal gathering with supporters.

"I'm not 100 percent sure that I'm doing it," said Kornell, 42, who works for Pinellas County schools. "But it's likely that I will run."

Kornell said he worked for the city's recreation department for 20 years. He said he is interested in improving public safety, education and economic development.

Cristina Silva, Times staff writer

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