Kovacic Named Mayor at City Council Meeting

Gary Kovacic was officially announced as the new mayor of Arcadia during Wednesday night’s special session City Council Meeting. The job is not a new one for Kovacic, who has served as mayor three prior terms (1998-99, 2000-01, and 2004-05).

Councilman Bob Harbicht was elected to take over Kovacic’s position as Mayor Pro Tem. Outgoing Mayor Peter Amundson served one term and will remain on City Council as a member.

Amundson was honored last night for his service and dedication to the City of Arcadia this past year. It was a year filled with challenges, and not always pleasant ones.

In December of 2010, . Amundson paid back the city the roughly $30 he spent on the mailing. In January he faced animal activists and residents upset over . In March, the mayor outraged some locals as well as gay and lesbian groups over the choice of . Despite and perhaps even spurred by the controversy, the event was a success, selling out. A protest staged the day of the event drew some unflattering media attention to the city though.

Despite these hardships, Amundson was praised for working through the tough times by Council and was met with a warm reception from residents, colleagues and group leaders. Amundson’s accomplishments as mayor include redevelopment projects such as the groundbreaking for the Gold Line in the Downtown area, parks and recreation improvements and the .  As for the economy and the struggles California is facing, Amundson noted that Arcadia remains in good shape. “I am happy to say that this year, despite the challenging economy, Arcadia remains in a strong financial position with a balanced budget. We have preserved the excellent public services that our residents expect and deserve,” he said.

Amundson's last days in office included weighing in on for Downtown Arcadia and hearing many concerned residents plead their cases over , which is still being debated by Council.

Neighboring Mayors Mary Ann Lutz (Monrovia) and Joe Mosca (Sierra Madre) were on hand to commend Amundson for his efforts in working with surrounding communities. “I am very proud to say that all of our members of City Council worked very well with your City Council and we thank you for all you have done as mayor,” Lutz said.

Mosca thanked Amundson for his "leadership, not only in Arcadia, but the San Gabriel Valley community."

Arcadia Chinese Association (ACA) President Edward Wong presented Amundson with a Certificate of Appreciation for his strong support of the Asian community.

“Peter has always been extremely supportive to the ACA as mayor of Arcadia. He came to all major ACA events and gave his support and encouragement to all its volunteers. He was always forthcoming in letting us know where we can help the city” Wong said.

Amundson was also presented with certificates from the Chamber of Commerce, Board of Education and Senator Dianne Feinstein (not present), among others.

“I am not worthy of all this, but thank you,” Amundson said, a bit overwhelmed. He went on to quote late UCLA basketball coach John Wooden. “When asked by an interviewer ‘are you perfect?’ Wooden replied, ‘no, but that doesn’t stop me from trying.’ This year as mayor, I’ve always tried to do what was right for Arcadia. I leave the mayorship as I came in, honored and humbled at the opportunity to serve my fellow Arcadians."

Newly-minted Mayor Kovacic noted the challenges that lie ahead, especially with the economy, public schools and the Gold Line project. He urged Arcadians to volunteer more of their time to help in the community and looks forward to serving once again as mayor of this “great” town.