Cities across Utah are swearing in new mayors and council members this week. The ceremony is usually informal, wedged between the Pledge of Allegiance and the first item on the council agenda.
In Centerville, the new mayor turned it into a lesson in civics for elementary school students.Mayor Priscilla Todd was sworn in Monday during an assembly at Reading Elementary School, witnessed by more than 100 fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders. She was joined by Steve Mangel, who was re-elected to a new term on the council, and Doug Nielson, who served a previous term.
Other city, county and school district officials also attended the 30-minute ceremony. Most of their remarks were directed at the students, encouraging their own community participation.
Todd compared her upcoming term to being a baby, unable to accomplish much on her own at first but maturing rapidly through intense and focused effort.
She noted that after being elected in November, she received letters from some Centerville young people, expressing fear of gang violence and drugs in the city.
"I didn't make many promises as I campaigned," Todd said. "But I'm making one promise now. I will do my best. And when you do that, miracles can occur," Todd said.
Mangel urged the students to get involved in their community through school elections, the youth city council and other service opportunities, saying each person who is involved can make a difference.
Nielsen, who served on the council previously, said it is the people who work for the city, as employees and volunteers, who make it the fine community that it is.
He also explained to the students how a city council functions, being responsible for such things as streets, garbage pickup, water and police protection.
Outgoing Mayor Michael Kjar also urged the students to take part in the community, saying it is an opportunity as well as a responsibility.
"You can be proud of those who serve and work in your community," Kjar told the students. "Community service is a noble service."