Dear Editor:

I am honored to serve a second term as your Mayor.  I am humbled by the opportunity to lead the Council and the City into the future.  I have served on the City Council for the past eighteen years and I am confident that the best is yet to come.

Time passes so quickly and there are so many demands for our attention and energy that we often neglect to give recognition and appreciation where warranted.  First, I would like to recognize the hard work of our outgoing City Council members Ted Howze and Kurt Spycher.  In addition, I would like to extend my appreciation to both of these men for the thousands of hours that they each have dedicated to serving our community.  Their perspectives on business and financial matters have reshaped our practices and increased the efficiencies of the City.  We have weathered the most difficult financial times since the Great Depression and their efforts have contributed to the financial health of the City.  So as their terms of service come to a close, I would like to say thank you to Ted Howze, Kurt Spycher, and their families for the sacrifices that you all have made in serving our community. 

Second, I would like to welcome our two newly elected Council members William Dehart and Forrest White.  Thank you for your willingness to serve our community.  We have much to accomplish; however, I am confident that with your participation and support we will achieve our community’s goals. 

And last, but certainly not least, I would like to extend my gratitude to Council members Amy Bublak and Mary Jackson for their dedication, support, and continued cooperation as we move into the future.  You have each made significant individual contributions that have added to the City’s quality of life.  I thank you for your professionalism and I look forward to working with both of you as we welcome our newly elected Council members and tackle the challenges that lie ahead. 

— John Lazar

Mayor, City of Turlock