The Brooklyn Eagle ran this story at the end of last week...

In what could prove to be one of Brooklyn’s most closely watched city council contests and a test of the rebound muscles of the Republican Party re-grouping for victory after defeats, Bob Capano formally announced his candidacy to the applause of top political, business and civic leaders.

The Bay Ridge born and bred politician topped a Democratic incumbent in last year’s local assembly contest in election districts here but was soundly beaten overall by Assemblyman Alec Brook-Krasny. Capano, a former government aide to both Democrat and Republican elected officials, formally announced his campaign at an American Legion hall here.

Among political leaders in the audience were Craig Eaton, the Brooklyn Republican Party leader; Mike Long and Jerry Kassar, NYS and Brooklyn Conservative Party leader; and at least one Democrat, Harriet Rosenberg, a former Community Board 10 member whose presence Capano remarked upon.

Calling for “new ideas and fresh voices” on community boards and honor and respect for those who have served their communities long and well, Capano cited the long experience of Rosenberg. She was not re-chosen as a Board 10 member a year ago by Gentile when he chose new members to give others a chance to serve. Rosenberg publicly protested Gentile’s decision, getting Republican and former board member Rosemarie O’Keefe’s vocal support.

“It is unfortunate that our councilman chose to remove her from the board and it is not something I certainly would not have done,” Capano said to applause.

...this race should be a close one, if Capano get create enough momentum to raise and spend the maximum allowed under Campaign Finance Program rules...