Disclaimer: The views I express here are my own and should NOT be construed as speaking for the City of Bangor or the City Council of Bangor.
Bangor’s Council Year always kicks off with our organizational meeting. It’s the formal start where new members are sworn in, and once seated, the entire council selects one of its own to serve as Chairperson for the year.
I vividly remember my own swearing-in last year; I could hardly contain my excitement. There’s a real magic to that moment. Knowing I would now have a seat at the table where the city’s policies and direction are decided… it was simply electrifying. That feeling of serving the community I love and carrying the trust of Bangor’s voters was both powerful and humbling.
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of watching Bangor’s three newest Councilors (Faloon, Carson, and Walker) take their oaths. Because I know that same feeling of pride, that eagerness to start serving, and that deep desire to represent our city well, watching them was almost as exciting as my own swearing-in.
This year, both Councilor Hawes and I were nominated for Chair, and the Council selected Councilor Hawes.
What a tremendous honor it was to even be considered. It made me reflect: four years ago, I was hardly known outside my own circles. Yesterday, I was the runner-up for Chair of the Bangor City Council. That journey wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support I’ve received from people all across the city—especially those who saw my advocacy at the public comment podium and encouraged me to take that leap and run for office. I am endlessly grateful.
Honestly, there’s no real disappointment in an outcome like this. When the Council’s choice is between two people who are both deeply committed to serving Bangor, the city truly can’t lose. Chair Hawes is going to do an excellent job, and I am confident this will be a great year for the Bangor City Council. I’m excited to support her leadership and get to work.
