McNeal sworn in as mayor

Joe McNeal was sworn in to be the city's new mayor Monday, while his wife, Mildred, holds the family Bible.

Nearly 300 people filled the commons area of Mountain Home Junior High School Monday evening as Joe McNeal took the oath of office as mayor of Mountain Home.

Because of the large turnout expected for the swearing-in ceremonies, McNeal had requested the regular city council session be moved from council chambers to the roomier school location.

Judge Daniel Eismann officiated, swearing in Councilmen Tom Rist and Mark Russell prior to issuing the oath to McNeal.

Mildred McNeal, Joe's wife of 48 years, stood at her husband's side holding the family Bible as Joe placed one hand on the book and raised his right hand for the swearing in ceremony.

As McNeal assumed the mayor's chair for the first time, it was time to get down to business.

The first order of business was to elect a president of the council. Councilman Mark Russell moved to name Richard Urquidi as council president and the motion was quickly seconded in unison by both Alain Isaac and Tom Rist. The new mayor accepted the unanimous vote.

The council also unanimously agreed to accept McNeal's department head appointments as presented: Nina Patterson, city clerk; Leanna Taylor, city treasurer; Jay R. Friedly, city attorney; Robert Ward, deputy city attorney; Tom Berry, police chief; Phil Gridley, fire chief; Stan Franks, parks and recreation department; Luise House, librarian; and Karl Huffaker, city engineer.

Dan Amaruso, who had originally been nominated to become the new building inspector, was not on the final list of nominees. That position remains unfilled at present.

The meeting quickly moved through the items on the agenda.

When the agenda called for "recognizing persons in the audience," McNeal took advantage of the opportunity, asking the entire audience to stand and then to give themselves a round of applause for helping to make the events of the evening possible.

Before adjourning the meeting, McNeal offered a few words, noting he was honored and pleased to be before everyone as Mayor of Mountain Home. He pointed out that 'change' is not an event, but a process, and pledged to continue in the effort to "make all things new. Life has been good, do not let me take credit for more than is due."

He offered his thanks to everyone who had helped him achieve the office and introduced his family and oldest friends, along with his campaign committee and supporters.

The new mayor invited everyone to join him and his family for a "Unity Ball," Friday, Jan. 16, at the Elks Lodge. The event is free and will feature several bands to help celebrate the city's new administration.