New borough assembly members sworn in, departing members praised

The Mat-Su Borough Assembly has certified the results of the November 5^th election.

Following a report by the borough’s canvas board, the assembly certified the results of the election without objection.  Tim Hale and Stephanie Nowers were then sworn in to represent District 1 and District 2, respectively.

After election night, Hale was trailing fellow candidate Brian Endle by two votes.  After the canvas board counted the absentee and questioned votes, however, Hale moved ahead with a lead of twenty-five votes.

On November 25^th, Hale will take the seat currently occupied by Jim Sykes, and Stephanie Nowers will take the seat currently held by Matthew Beck.  Both assembly members have reached the two-term limit for borough assembly.

After a break that included cake to celebrate the incoming and outgoing members, the assembly re-convened for its regular meeting.  In addition to conducting regular business, many who spoke took the opportunity to thank Assembly Members Sykes and Beck.

There were some common threads in the comments at the end of the meeting by staff and assembly members.  Assembly Member Sykes was praised for attention to detail and tenacity for figuring out details of any given issue.  Assembly Member Beck was praised for carrying himself with compassion and dignity.

Tim Hale and Stephanie Nowers will attend their first regular meeting as assembly members on December 3^rd.