Comments made on 12/3/24 at the Town Council meeting   

I was telling some friends that wrapping up my time as Mayor feels comparable to being in a theater production. Not that public service is a show (though it may seem so at times) but that it is special and finite, like catching lightning in a bottle. 

Elections are similar to auditions: it’s fairly random who will be thrown together to create something good!

Both efforts take time away from family, travel, jobs and other pursuits.   And both are subject to reviews from critics!

But no matter the circumstance, you owe your best. There are always going to be peaks and valleys during the run, as it were. But through many conversations, meetings, shared meals, maybe a happy hour or two, the magic happens. 

I’ve had the privilege of experiencing those collaborative successes with casts and crews, Superintendents and Directors, Principals, Managers, Mayors, even Governors and Congressmembers. Leaders of all stripes.  

So comes the final show: you strike the set, have the cast party and abruptly, people who have been in your life… in this case for years… will never all be together again in the same way.

I was feeling that at several recent regional meetings, too, as Mayors, Council and staff move on to other adventures.   As will we. 

But, like a play that tells an important story, I and many before me hope to leave a meaningful and positive impression, marked by progress and accomplishments that support the entire community. 

We take note of the lessons learned along the way and ultimately provide experiences and memories that will last long after the curtain falls.

I can’t begin to thank all who have helped in countless ways… my whole big, wonderful family; friends; staff and those colleagues who served in good faith. Many are gone, but their visionary presence lives on.

It’s been an honor. 

                                      THANK YOU!