City Council reorganizes
By Nancy Needham nancy@theacorn.com

Andy Fox was appointed as the new mayor of Thousand Oaks during the City Council’s annual reorganization meeting on Tues., Dec. 12. Jacqui Irwin is now mayor pro tem.

Reelected councilmembers Fox, Claudia Bill-de la Peña and Dennis Gillette were given the oath of office by city clerk Linda Lawrence and city clerk emeritus Nancy Dillon, who retired last year.

“We have a world class community and it didn’t happen by accident,” said Fox, mayor for the third time.

During his acceptance comments he paid tribute to former city manager Grant Brimhall and late city leader Alex Fiore. Fox invited residents to come to the City Council’s meetings on Tuesdays to share their concerns with the council.

About 100 people, many of them dignitaries who participated in presentations during the evening event, attended. Among those present were former mayors Linda Parks, Frances Prince, Ray Garcia and Judy Lazar.

There were handshakes, kisses and a standing ovation as speakers took turns at the lectern to honor outgoing Mayor Dennis Gillette.

Councilmember Tom Glancy presented a California state resolution from state Sen. Tom McClintock (R-Thousand Oaks), and Irwin read one from Assemblymember Audrey Strickland (R-Moorpark).

Along with proclamations, Gillette received gifts, flowers, a marble trophy and a clock. Many guests commented on his attendance record––he has exceeded any other mayor in representing the city at community events.

“He’s the ultimate cheerleader for the city,” said Alliance for the Arts director Patricia Jones.

Fox noted Gillette has served the city for the better part of four decades.

“As a deputy, he put his life on the line for the city of Thousand Oaks, literally,” Fox said. “He is the real deal—he serves because he cares.”

Gillette, his voice nearly silenced by a cold, kept his remarks brief as he spoke of the City Council as a partnership that brings together five different people who are supported by a superb staff.

“I’ve had a lot of fun,” he said.

Bill-de la Peña, whose twin sons attended the meeting in a stroller, said the last four years have been quite a ride.

She also said she hoped the respect the council exhibits in public could extend behind the scenes.

Forum Theater seats were dedicated to honor Tex Ward, retired Conejo Recreation and Parks general manager, and Bob Rickards, a local artist, for their years of dedication to the city.