Martin Heberling III sworn in as at-large councilman

Martin Heberling III officially was sworn in as Amherst’s new at-large councilman before a Jan. 14 City Council meeting, replacing Joe Miller, who was elected state representative for the 56th District.

Oberlin Municipal Court Judge Tom Januzzi presided over the swearing-in ceremony.

“Once again, I think it’s very appropriate that Martin Heberling the third has asked me to swear him in this evening,” Januzzi said, adding that Heberling’s grandfather, Martin Heberling, had sworn him in as judge in 2002 after a 26 year service.

Both Martin Heberling and his wife, Patricia, as well as Miller, were present at the proceeding.

“We have two people who have dedicated many years to public service who are here to witness this,” Januzzi said.

Additionally, Amherst Mayor Mark Costilow added that Martin Heberling previously served as a law director and city prosecutor for eight years with the city.

During the Council meeting, Costilow further extended a welcome to Heberling III as the newest Council member.

“Good luck with the new position,” the mayor said. “Again, I hope you come in and we talk in (my) office.

“There are some ideas I’d like to share with you and the kind of stuff that we expect to do for the year, to catch you up.”

Heberling said he has plenty of faith when it comes to his grandson’s work ethic and passion for the city of Amherst.

“My wife and I are very happy for him,” the elder Heberling said. “He’s a very fine gentleman, he’s a hard worker and he has Amherst in his heart, and he will work very, very hard.

“I think this is just the beginning of his political career because I think there are more things ahead for him.”