Burkhalter opens London realty office

Associated Press

State Rep. Mark Burkhalter — speaker of the Georgia House for 11 days — said he's opening a London-based realty firm.

Burkhalter had said in December he'd serve as House speaker, replacing Glenn Richardson in one of the most powerful political posts in the state. But three days later the Johns Creek Republican changed his mind, citing unnamed business opportunities. He has served as speaker since Richardson resigned Jan. 1. David Ralston is expected to be elected to the job on Monday.

Burkhalter International will focus on commercial and real estate acquisition and marketing throughout Europe. The London office will open in the first quarter of 2010.

Burkhalter said he hasn't decided whether he will need to give up his House seat, which he's held since 1993.