Community Corner
Brudie Passes Mayoral Torch
John Watras takes the oath of office during ceremonies April 1.
Don Brudie officially passed the mayoral torch to John Watras April 1 during ceremonies at village hall.
Watras, who officially took the oath as Garden City's 45th mayor, spoke candidly to a packed boardroom filled with family, friends, residents and colleagues.
"I'm here to listen to you and get things done," he told residents. "The message is simple. We're running a business here. It's almost a $54 million business. We have a lot of responsibility."
Together with the board Watras said the gentlemen have two years to accomplish the following:
- protect financial integrity and balance budgets
- continue to help build our local economy
- listen to all the people
- to encourage participation and volunteerism
He encouraged citizens to speak out, much like the village's seniors did regarding an improved center. "The seniors said they wanted a new center and we got them one," he said.
Watras also vowed to better market Garden City's "iconic" facilities, including the pool, tennis courts, racquet ball facilities, St. Paul's fields and the new senior center.
He intends to help local businesses too. "Like all of us they have dealt with unprecedented economic turmoil," he said. "I want to help them as much as we possibly can. Working with the Chamber of Commerce will be imperative. I want to get money into the village in any way, shape or form. I want them to be innovative and help us as well."
He also addressed 'everyone's favorite topic" - St. Paul's. "I know it's been a dividing topic and like all of us on the board we'd all like to see some closure to this dangling participle and move on," he said, adding that he plans on immediately forming a focus group comprised of village volunteers to come up with suggestions. "There's a lot of talent in this village," he said. "Let's bang some skulls and have them come back with suggestions."
Watras, who grew up in Garden City and returned to raise his own family here, added, "Im not idealistic. I expect that we will continue to be challenged by financial woes. But we will prevail. Garden City always does."
He ended his remarks in a way only Watras could.
"Words you'll never ever hear in this room again: Trustee Watras you are out of order," he said to roaring laughter and applause. "
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