Hennigan Dynasty Continues?

West Roxbury insurance businessman Jim Hennigan tells the Boston Phoenix that he will run for the 6th District seat on the Boston City Council, being vacated by John Tobin. He is the second announced candidates; Matt O'Malley has already told the Phoenix he is running.

Hennigan, 56, is the brother of former city councilor Maura Hennigan, who is now Suffolk County Criminal Clerk. Their father was a Jamaica Plain state representative, and their grandfather was also in politics (and has a school named after him in JP).

Although he has not run for office before, [Correction: Hennigan previously ran at least once, for state senator; my error]Hennigan, who grew up in Jamaica Plain and has lived in West Roxbury for more than 20 years, feels he is well positioned to run. "I feel greatly attached to both parts of the district," he says.

His family name and popular sister should help. In addition, Hennigan says that at-large councilor Felix Arroyo encouraged him to enter the race. Arroyo tells the Phoenix that he has not made a decision about backing any candidate in the race, but said that he believes Hennigan would be a very credible candidate who knows the district well.