Last night, the city of Twentynine Palms finalized the November 6 election results (which had a 54 percent voter turnout); implemented new positions; and selected its new mayor. Reporter Heather Clisby was there…
The times they are a changin’ in Twentynine Palms, and last night, a new mayor made it real. Steven Bilderain, the former mayor pro tem and the council member representing District 1, took over the gavel from outgoing Mayor McArthur Wright.
The new mayor pro tem is Joel Klink, the council member representing District 2. Assemblyman Chad Mayes swore in newly elected and re-elected council members to a pack house: Daniel Mintz, re-elected to District 3; Karmolette O’Gilvie, who defeated incumbent John Cole by two votes to represent District 4; and McArthur Wright, who was re-elected to represent District 5.
Prior to the mayoral switch, Wright gave a glowing State of the City address, touting many accomplishments over the last year, namely the city’s financial health.
Also, new city employees were introduced and welcomed in Animal Control, Business Development, the Sheriff’s Department, and the Tourism Board. Food for Life Executive Director Kelly Schumacher was honored by Wright as Citizen of the Year, while City Clerk Cindy Villescas was honored as Employee of the Year.
THE CITY OF TWENTYNINE PALMS GETS A NEW MAYOR
