12/16/1997 Meeting Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Council Minutes of 12/16/97 was not at all like I thought it was. But I'm not disappointed. It was a learning ,«~ experience which is still continuing today. I wholeheartedly thank that past Council for their vote of confidence upon my appointment. Over the last six and a half years, many decisions have been made: some easy and some extremely difficult. I am proud of my tenure as Ward II Councilman. Many of the deplorable streets have been repaired and much of the flooding has been stopped since 1990. To do these types of repairs, a great deal of money was required. As such, it was necessary for the city to go into debt, with the resulting debt burden that has scared many of the residents of the city. But throughout the entire infrastructure repair program, careful consideration was given to the city's future ability to repay the debt. I, as Chairman of Council's Finance Committee, would never have recommended any of our note or bond ordinances for passage if I felt our financial solvency was in danger. If anybody thinks that being a Council member is fun or easy, he or she should run for office and experience the fun. Granted, a great sense of satisfaction is derived from a successful outcome to a constituent's problem. But there are also those instances when a resolution cannot be reached to anyone's satisfaction. That is all part of the job. I would not trade my experiences for anything. Since I am actively seeking a home that is wheelchair accessible, I must be free to move to wherever one is found. The time has come for me to leave Council. It will be an adjustment at first--no meetings or telephone calls and more free time. Thank you, fellow Council members. Your help and cooperation made all of our jobs go so much smoother. Special thanks are necessary for members of the Mayor's administration who constantly support the City Council from City Hall. Last but not least, thank you residents of Ward II for placing your faith and trust in me four years ago. I have greatly appreciated the cards and calls I have received since my decision not to seek re-election. I'll never forget the last six and a half years." President Boehmer said that Council would miss Mr. Lind as he had done an excellent job. He wished him the best of luck. Mr. Nashar wished Mayor Boyle, Finance Director Burns, Council President Boehmer, Safety Director Kasler, Ward II Councilman Lind and Personnel & Administrative Director Wilamosky the very best. He has enjoyed working with all of them. He looks forward to sharing the same spirit of cooperation with the newly elected officials of the administration and Council. Mr. Nashar wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Council President Boehmer said he would never forget his tenure on Council--it has been a wonderfu124 years. He first came to Council and 1970 and moved through the chairs as Ward I Councilman, Councilman-at-Large and President of Council. He is sad to leave, but knows that it is time. Mr. Boehmer wished everyone good luck. He asked that the new administration and Council work together as a team as they are all good, dedicated people. He will miss everyone! 11