San Gabriel Valley : PIG TALES

Montana, the 80-pound pot-bellied pig that has become a lightning rod for two La Puente recall drives, will be around a bit longer.

The City Council has refused owner Michelle Walker’s second plea to keep her pet--in violation of city codes that ban swine--but agreed to let the Planning Commission review the matter. Meanwhile, Montana will stay with Walker, unaware of his role in city politics.

Sniped Councilwoman Sally Ann Holguin-Fallon, the pig’s sole supporter on the council: “They should be allowed to keep a pet who is cleaner than most of its council critics.”

Councilman Edward L. Chavez has suggested that the pig controversy is the reason a homeowners group is mounting a recall drive against him and fellow council members Louis R. Perez and Joe V. Alderete.

Walker contends that after she signed a notice of intent to recall the three, she received a letter from city inspectors informing her that she would have to get rid of the pig.