After newly elected Chris Clark and John McAlister assumed their seats on the Mountain View City Council Jan. 8, the council unanimously voted to appoint John Inks as mayor and Clark as vice mayor as its first item of business.

Clark and McAlister, former planning commissioners who won in a close race Nov. 6, replace termed-out Councilmembers Laura Macias and Tom Means. Running as incumbents, Inks and Mike Kasperzak retained their seats on the seven-member council.

“This will be the first time in four years we will have a change on the council, and it will make Clark the youngest vice mayor in our history,” Kasperzak said.

Clark, 29, thanked the former councilmembers who supported his candidacy.

“I will do my best, since our city is the envy of many and I want to make it stronger as I serve,” he said.

McAlister, owner of a Baskin-Robbins franchise in town, described the opportunity to serve as a “privilege” and “very humbling.” He said his goal is to put the community first and to give them a voice.

“We are a service organization and need to take care of our citizens,” he said. “Come give us your input, since we are here to listen to you and learn from you.”

The council honored Macias and Means for their service, reading a list of their accomplishments.

“I don’t know whether to burst into tears or be relieved after 16 years in public service, but I want to thank the residents, city staff and councilmembers for the protection of Mountain View’s resources,” Macias said.

“I enjoy bragging about the city and its services,” Means said. “This council worked because (members) are all independent.”

Caption: Mountain View City Councilmembers take the oath of office for the new term. Pictured, from left, are Chris Clark, John McAlister, new mayor John Inks and Mike Kasperzak.

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