City welcomes new and old

ONEIDA, N.Y. » The new year welcomed both old and new civil servants to the City of Oneida.

“It’s a thrill,” said Ward 3 councilor James Coulthart, who was one of three newly-elected government officials. He replaces outgoing councilor Erwin Smith. “I think every citizen should have a chance to serve, and I look forward to working through the challenges and positives facing the city.”

Fellow councilors Alan Cohen, Ward 1; Michael Bowe, Ward 2; Helen Acker, Ward 4; and Jim Chamberlain, Ward 5, also took the oath of office Friday evening. Ward 6 councilor Tom Simchik was not present.

Coulthart is joined by newcomers TomBoylan and Mary Cavanagh, who will serve as supervisors at the county.

“I hope to represent the people who voted me in,” said Boylan, who will serve as supervisor for Wards 4-6 alongside incumbent Joe Magliocca. “I want them to be heard.”

“I am so excited to finally have a seat at the table in the county I live,” said Cavanagh, who will represent Wards 1-3 alongside incumbent John Reinhardt. “I’m thankful to finally be on the board.

Mayor Leo Matzke, who was sworn in after winning re-election, said the next two years “are going to be some of the best in terms of growth” so long as the city continues on its current trajectory. “I know we will do it right, and I think

within a year you’re go- ing to be very proud of the things going on in the city. But I need you to know that you are the key.”

Others sworn in included Public Safety Commissioner Mike West; Lt. Steve Lowell; Sgt. Matt Colella; juvenile aid officer Christopher “Kip” Bailey; attorney Nadine Bell; . City Chamberlain Nancy Andrews was not present.

“This city is truly fortunate and truly blessed to have such a hard-working, professional police force who are not only diligent with their work, but compassionate, thoughtful, and generous as well,” said City Clerk Sue Pulverenti, commending the city police force for its recent Christmas raid on the Froelick family to bring them presents and holiday cheer while they dealt with the loss of a loved one.