Marchese elected City Council President; outgoing President Hanlon honored

  The City Council voted to nominate Councillor-at-Large Michael Marchese, 7-3, as Council President during their meeting at City Hall on Tuesday.

  Ward 6 Councillor Al Lattanzi first nominated Ward 2 Councillor Stephanie Martins since she is the longest serving member on this body who has yet to serve as president. “She ensures that every resident has a seat at the table,” Lattanzi said. “Her only agenda is to put people over politics.”

  Lattanzi said she does more than show up to vote monthly – she connects residents to necessary resources.

  Councillor-at-Large Stephanie Smith nominated Michael Marchese to serve as president.

  “I’d like to streamline the meetings and make them more productive,” Marchese said in his acceptance speech. “I’d like people to be involved in all meetings.”

  Also, during the meeting, Ward 1 Councillor Wayne Matewsky presented outgoing City Council President John Hanlon with a plaque and gavel. “You’ve proven to be honest, effective president to this membership as the former mayor and city clerk,” Matewsky said.

  He said Hanlon used the gavel nicely, being fair, honest and hardworking.

  Hanlon joked that collectively they’ve been around since before Columbus. “It’s been a great year,” Hanlon said. “I’ve made some great friends.”