Apr. 15, 2024 11:55p
(WGTD)---John Antaramian’s last official duty as Kenosha mayor Monday was to gavel to a close the evening’s city council meeting.
Former Ald. Dave Bogdala takes over Tuesday. To end the day, Bogdala will take the oath of office at the city council’s organizational meeting.
For Bogdala, it’s a time of transition in more ways than one. He gave up his city council seat which he held for 16 years to run for mayor. Reflecting on his years on the council, Bogdala Monday night described Antaramian as his ‘public service father’ who convinced him in 2015 to set aside thoughts he had of leaving public service.
In his farewell speech to the council and community, Antaramian praised council members for their service---and the community as a whole for supporting him and his agenda. “A lot of communities don’t get anything done because the public itself has not been involved in anyway,” he said.
The 69-year-old Antaramian served as mayor for a total of 24 years, split over two tenures. Before becoming mayor in 1992, Antaramian served for 10 years in the state legislature.
Antaramian said he’s looking forward to the next phase of his life which he said includes writing a book about childhood experiences and gold mining.
Monday night’s meeting included many accolades.
Speaking during citizens’ comments, former Ald. John Fox gave an emotional tribute to the outgoing mayor. “You made a difference—a big difference,” said Fox, citing lakefront development, various redevelopment projects, moves to strengthen neighborhoods and benefits to the arts community.
Current Alder Holly Kangas echoed Fox’s sentiments. “Our outgoing mayor not only did a lot of good and amazing things for the city and for all of us but he’s a kind human with the patience of a saint—I couldn’t do what you did,” she told him.
Also recognized Monday night were outgoing council members Dan Prozanski and Dave Mau. Prozanski is stepping down after 16 years of service.
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