Incumbents Ralph Fernandez and Bob Gonzales were defeated in their bids for a third council term and Mayor Rick Cook stepped down after one term; Cook had served on the council from 1998 to 2006, when he was defeated for reelection, but voters returned him to the panel in 2010.

Each councilman received a plaque from City Clerk Judy Rice before making remarks as elected officials for the last time. 

“My mom said if you can’t say something nice then don’t say anything,” joked Gonzales, so, “I won’t say anything about Rick now... “

He thanked Fernandez, noting, “It was an honor and a pleasure to work with you; we did not agree on everything but I appreciate,” Fernandez’s analysis of issues.

Gonzales also congratulated the new council: “I appreciate your commitment to the community and I know you will do well... “

Family, his companion Nicole and the community also were thanked by Gonzales for their support during his long political career encompassing various school and college boards before his election to City Council.

“I have been fortunate to run eight campaigns,” and Gonzales said he was also fortunate to “do a lot of things... and I really appreciate the friendships and people I’ve met,” who appreciated his help.

“It’s a better community because of that... “

Gonzales addressed “open dialogue,” and transparency, which became a campaign issue, but he said he believed the council conducted the “public’s business in public... 

“I’ve had the pleasure of working well with and knowing Rick Cook for many years... it’s no secret we haven’t always agreed,” but Gonzales noted the two grew up together and served together as Santa Paula Police Officers; Gonzales later retired as chief.

In spite of occasional disagreements, Gonzales said he was “always amazed” at Cook’s commitment to the community. 

“It’s been an honor to serve the city of Santa Paula,” said Fernandez. “Hopefully, we did as good as we could in tough economic times,” when the city was faced with many financial challenges.

“Yeah, I took things apart too much,” but only when he had questions or concerns.

Fernandez said, “We’ve done a lot for this community and hopefully,” the newly seated council would do the same.

He noted the council and the community must stay engaged and be aware of what the others expect; issues such as saving the Steckel Park Aviary - which Fernandez led - and YMCA pool program at the high school were only successful because of community involvement. 

He thanked former City Councilman Ray Luna for being “quite an inspiration” and giving him “The best advice I ever received... “ 

He also noted the presence of his wife Cathy Fernandez and three of their four daughters - the oldest is attending the university - and noted how important their support was to his council service.

Fernandez also thanked city staff, his mother and supporters, including “Many who helped me with city business and running for council... sometimes you need other eyes and ears to bounce things off,” and to help govern.

“But working with Bob has been a great experience... we came onto the council at a very traumatic time, a lot of turmoil and I think we calmed the community,” and worked hard, including on “lots of things on the backburner,” that Fernandez said the public is not aware of.

He also thanked Councilmen Martin Hernandez and Jim Tovias and the outgoing Cook, noting of the latter, “He studies things and then says the things that should be said... “

“It’s been fun, up and down,” said Cook, who noted he ran four years ago “for the same reason some ran this time,” spiraling sewer bills.

“Now, there’s a drought,” that must be dealt with.

Cook said he believes he brought stronger attention and action on wastewater treatment plant issues, and acknowledged at times he seemed gruff.

“I’m sure I offended people unintentionally over the 12 years total I’ve served on the council,” but in spite of his demeanor, “My representation usually comes from the heart and is very straightforward.”

Cook said there were some council accomplishments over the past four years including not having to lay off employees and even providing raises after a long dry spell including salary cuts.

“I thank my family first,” noting his wife Sally was sitting in a row of relatives including “my oldest granddaughter and the youngest, but we’re still missing a couple... my family put up with a lot, I missed a lot of stuff that was on Monday night but I took an oath to represent the city.”

He noted his long friendship with Gonzales and said, “When I was a police officer every officer had a piece of the city and were obligated to it,” and they continue to do their best.

Cook welcomed the new council and noted they will be “surprised” in January when they start the budget process and seek better compensation for staff. 

All the departing councilmen said Tovias, had “What is best for the city in their heart... all kept their eye on the target to move the city forward.”

Although “looking forward to the new council” Tovias cautioned they must realize that at times the body, “can’t be as transparent as they want because of legal issues,” that prevents public discussion. 

“I was proud to work with the three gentlemen,” now leaving the council although Tovias admitted to being “a little envious” as they know can enjoy Monday night football. 

Hernandez said he wished all council meetings would be as crowded as the December 1 session.

“It was a privilege and honor to serve with you... I learned something form each one of you, each has his own perspective,” of governing and issues.

Hernandez said he always admired Fernandez for his “community spirit” and ability to rally people; Gonzales, he joked in the manner of the departing councilman, “Has been serving the community since the horse and buggy days,” and he complimented his connection to the community.

“Rick, I’m going to miss you the most,” and Hernandez said he came to admire what he first perceived as stubbornness but that actually stemmed from fierce dedication to family and community.

“I really admired that about you, and you never forgot where the employees came from, you never forgot about the men in uniform or pubic works and we appreciate,” Cook’s dedication.

Hernandez wished Cook, Fernandez and Gonzales “God’s speed in all endeavors... take time to be with your families and get to those ‘honey-do’ lists as soon as possible.”