The voters’ decision in the June 5 primary cast two incumbents — long-time councilmember Doug Sayers and newcomer Joe Franco — from office.

The newly elected members — Brian Wilson and Nicholas McBride — succeeded them, perhaps expressing the voters’ desire for some new blood and some new ideas for the direction the city must follow.

Another veteran — Mayor Lino Callegari — also won election with the three top vote getters keeping his seat with the other incumbents — Cheryl McDonald and Rod DeBoer

At a special meeting Tuesday, June 19, the two departing councilmembers were recognized for their service, and the two new councilmembers took the oath of office.

A motion to elect Mayor Lino Callegari to another term as mayor then failed for the lack of a second. Then De Boer was elected mayor and Wilson will serve as mayor pro tem.

Then, following the council’s Wednesday, June 20 closed session meeting, the city announced the appointment of Jared Hancock, the city’s senior planner, as the new city administrator, succeeding City Administrator and City Finance Director Robert Porfiri who recently announced his retirement.

We also would like to thank those leaving the council and the city government for their service and welcome the new councilmembers and Hancock on his promotion.

Change, as the old saw goes, is life’s only constant. We encourage everyone in city government to remember they work for the citizens of Susanville and are elected to serve their interests.

We hope those who have a role in administering the public’s trust will move the city in a positive direction rather than cast blame and bicker among themselves.

Now’s the time to roll up your sleeves and get busy conducting the people’s business.