The Centralia City Council reorganized Monday night, with two new councilmen being sworn into office along with Mayor Bryan Kuder who begins a new four-year term.
Both incoming Councilman Isreal ‘Izzy’ Fontanez and Councilwoman Barri Allen come into the position optimistic about the future.
Fontanez says he looks forward to serving, which is what he does.
“Plan on being a bridge and soundboard for people. And I plan on being a voice so here’s to the next four years, let’s see how it goes.”
Allen also looking forward to her tenure.
“Feel like our city is going in such a good direction right now. I love this city. It has supported me and my family my whole life. I think everybody is on a good trajectory right now and I’m looking forward to joining them and keeping that up.”
Both also expressed appreciation for a warm welcome.
Before the swearing-in and the seating of the new city council members, outgoing council members Blake Griffin and Robert ‘Spanky’ Smith said their goodbyes.
Griffin says it has been an honor to serve and he truly loves Centralia.
“This is definitely been the most interesting and active 2 years of my professional life. To say the least. We’ve accomplished so much in just a few short years together and I look forward to seeing how things continue to play out. I’ve taken a lot out of this process but it’s the friendships I’ve made that I cherish the most.”
Griffin had special words for Mayor Kuder, noting the city has had some great mayors but can’t think of a mayor who has done as much as he has in the past two years. Griffin added Kuder had the traits to get things done and is thankful he will serve another four years. Griffin called City Clerk Kim Enke the ‘glue that holds the city together’ and commended her for her leadership when there was not a city manager. Griffin expressed his pleasure with City Manager Kory Smith, saying they had a city manager with honesty, integrity, and skill who they were fortunate to have.
Smith says he shared the same thoughts as Griffin.
“It’s been a humbling 4 years, to say the least. I know the Izzy and Barri will continue to do a good job and lead the city forward along with the rest of the staff here. Kim Enke has definitely been that piece that has kept everything running smoothly. I want to thank her again.”
Smith says he’s proud to be from Centralia and serving. He promised to keep an eye out and help out where he can.
Mayor Kuder thanked the two outgoing councilmen and thanked Griffin for taking the open position on the city council two years ago and stepping forward when the city really needed him.
Mayor Bryan Kuder is sworn into office for a four year term as granddaughters McKinley and Audrey Hartin hold the Bible as wife Christy Kuder looks on as City Clerk Kim Enke administers the oath of office.
Isreal ‘Izzy’ Fontanez is sworn into office as his wife Heather holds the Bible and City Clerk Kim Enke administers the oath of office.
New councilperson Barri Allen is sworn in by City Clerk Kim Enke as Allen’s daughter Dimi Resch holds the Bible along with her son Landon Resch.
Outgoing City Councilmen Robert ‘Spanky’ Smith (left) and Blake Griffin (right) with re-elected Mayor Bryan Kuder in the middle.
