ENERGY ON BUSH ITINERARY PRESIDENT TO MEET DAVIS IN L.A. OR FRESNO, AFTER FUND-RAISER LUNCHEON.

Byline: Bill Hillburg Washington Bureau

California's energy crisis will top the agenda Tuesday when President George W. Bush makes his first official visit to Los Angeles and meets with Gov. Gray Davis.

Davis has become increasingly critical of the president's hands-off approach to California's power woes.

Bush, who favors a long-term strategy designed to ease the nation's dependence on foreign oil and raise power generation capacity, has repeatedly rejected pleas from Davis to impose temporary federal price caps on electricity.

``The president looks forward to meeting with Gov. Davis,'' said White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer.

Davis, who sought the meeting in a phone call and a follow-up letter issued late Wednesday, told Bush: ``I offer you an open mind.''

He also suggested that the president meet with California business owners and consumers who have felt the impact of rolling power blackouts and rising energy prices.

Aides to Davis and Bush said Thursday that the time and place for the private meeting had not been set. A Davis aide indicated it will be scheduled either following a Tuesday luncheon appearance in Los Angeles or as part of a later visit to Fresno.

In his only Los Angeles public appearance, Bush will deliver a speech on the economy at 12:15 p.m. Tuesday at the Century Plaza Hotel, 2055 Avenue of the Stars. The $75-a-plate luncheon ($85 for nonmembers) is being hosted by the Los Angeles World Affairs Council.

Bush will arrive at Los Angeles International Airport late Monday, following Memorial Day observances at Arlington National Cemetery and a stop in Mesa, Ariz.

Before appearing in Century City, Bush will make an appearance early Tuesday at the Marine Corps' Camp Pendleton in San Diego County to highlight his energy conservation plan for the military.