Richmond City Council President William J. Pantele is expected to jump into the mayor's race, with a major fundraiser planned for next week.

Pantele, in a blast e-mail message by his campaign committee today, said he will make a "major announcement" about his political plans soon.

He didn't say which office he'll be seeking and was not available for comment today. However, he's asking for contributions up to $1,000 at the fundraiser next Wednesday at the Renaissance, 107 W. Broad St., and he's facing no opposition for re-election in the 2nd District.

The mayoral race already includes Del. Dwight C. Jones, who plans a fundraiser on Tuesday at the Martini Kitchen & Bubble Bar, 1911 W. Main St., and Paul Goldman, a former aide to Mayor L. Douglas Wilder. Corporate lawyer Robert J. Grey Jr. also has announced that he's considering a mayoral bid.