It’s that time of year, the Mayor’s luncheon this week celebrated Mayor Andrew Weissman’s completion of a year as mayor, with community support, including current and former elected city officials, staff and community members.
This was Mayor Andy’s second time serving in the center seat, one in each of his two terms. The changing of the guard will occur at the next council meeting this month, when vice-mayor Jeff Cooper is anticipated to take the role of mayor.
Until the 1990s, there were no term limits, so several councilmembers served on the council more than two consecutive terms.
Cases in point include Richard Alexander (1974-1990), A. Ronald Perkins (1974-1986), Richard Ross Brundo (1974-1986). Others like Dr. James Boulgarides and Albert Vera, served more than two terms, but not consecutively.
This photo, pulled from historic files, serves as a reminder of how things have changed. This was taken in the former City Hall (built in 1928).
Because of the councilmembers named, it can be dated back to the 1950s. The council chambers at that time were small, as you can see, with doors to the closed session room behind.
The raised dais barely had room for all five councilmembers, with Mayor Curtis J. Davis in the traditional center seat.
Below, seats were reserved for staff members like the city attorney, city treasurer and city clerk. At that time, the clerk and treasurer were elected, but served as full time staff.
The police department and the council chambers entries were located on Duquesne. This photo was taken prior to the police department moving into its current police station on Duquesne.
