A New Beginning

The swearing-in ceremony of the new Greeley City Council was an exciting beginning for some, “I am excited to serve the city of Greeley at this capacity,” said new council member Sandy Elder, but an emotional end for others.

Don Feldhaus of Ward III began the transitional meeting by reminiscing of his years as a member of the council. “I have spent eight years as a council member. In that time, I have seen three mayors, eleven council members, two city managers, and numerous Tribune reporters,” said Feldhaus. On a more serious note, he thanked the city workers and commended the growth that has happened in the community. His fond memories of the council touched the hearts of many people there, including me, and I have no association with the council at all. When City Manager, Roy Otto, recognized Feldhaus, he said he could not have asked to work with a better person and that Feldhaus is a much respected man. This was proven when he received a standing ovation after accepting his plaque. The room filled with a rush of gratitude for a man that has put so much hard work into this city.

Carrol Martin was next to take the floor. He gave advice for the next council including giving the city staff pay raises and lowering taxes. Otto may have said it best when he said Martin takes a no non-sense, businessman approach to issues. Martin ended by saying, “It has been a real privilege to serve this city.”

Ed Phillipsen added that it was also a privilege for him to serve the city of Greeley. He said he could not have asked for a better, more professional or more dedicated group of people. Phillipsen extended an offer to help the new council members in any way.

While all the council members were sad to leave, they certainly left a legacy. “I don’t want to draw an end to these eight years,” Feldhaus said when asked to motion the adjournment.

Once the new council members were seating, Mayor Ed Clark welcomed them and asked for their remarks. Clark will remain mayor until the votes for the mayoral race can be recounted. It is said to be done by this Friday. The new mayor will be sworn in at a special city council meeting on Monday, Nov. 16 in order to resume regular city council meetings by Tuesday.“I support the new mayor, whoever he is,” said Elder. She is the new At-Large representative.

John Gates is the new Ward III representative. He is also a Greeley City Council legacy; his dad served on the council from 1971 until 1975. “I am honored to be elected,” said Gates.

Mike Finn was appointed to the position of Ward IV representative this summer when Pam Shaddock resigned to work for Senator Mike Udall. He ran for the position this term and won by a slight margin. “I encourage everyone to get involved in the city because we’re doing this together,” said Finn.