COUNCIL OKS CONVENTION.

Byline: Rick Orlov Daily News Staff Writer

With some self-congratulations, the Los Angeles City Council gave final approval on Friday to a contract that will bring the Democratic National Convention to the city next year.

The 13-0 vote committed the city to providing security, the Convention Center and shuttle services for the event in August 2000 as its portion of a $34.5 million contract with the Democratic Party. The costs are estimated at $6 million, with only about $1 million of that in cash.

``I think that's remarkable,'' Councilwoman Jackie Goldberg said. ``To get an event of this magnitude for only $1 million is wonderful for the city of Los Angeles and a precedent is being set that these things can be done privately.''

Most of the expenses are being borne by LA2000, the private group formed by billionaire Eli Broad, food magnate Ron Burkle, Democratic activist Bill Wardlaw and David Geffen of DreamWorks, to bring the convention to the city.

Councilman Joel Wachs said it was the same model the city used to host the 1984 Olympic Games and an example of what could be accomplished through private industry.

``This is progress,'' Wachs said. ``It is a great example for everyone.''

Chief Legislative Analyst Ron Deaton said the highest part of the city bill will be for police and security services outside Staples Center, the main venue for the event.

The city is prepared to budget $3 million for this aspect, but police officials said that figure probably can be reduced.

Councilman Hal Bernson worried the LAPD would not be providing security inside the arena.

``If anything happens, everyone will blame the city,'' Bernson said. ``This is not the time for amateurs. We want professionals in there.''

Deaton said one of the conditions was that the DNC and the Secret Service would determine the security needs inside the facility.

``They control the inside and we control access to determine who will get in the building,'' Deaton said.

Los Angeles was selected over Boston and Denver to be the host for the convention. LA2000 has estimated it could generate $150 million to $200 million in revenue.