During an evening where some longtime Escalon City Council members were recognized, the oath of office was also taken by newcomers to the panel.

The actions came as part of the Monday night, Dec. 19 regular City Council session, with a large audience packing the council chambers on McHenry Avenue.

After declaring the results of the November election as official, as provided through the San Joaquin County Registrar of Voters Office, the newly elected council members were announced: Andrew Hagan, Jeremy Engle and Malinda Walker for the three available four-year terms; Shawn Strohman for a short term, two-year post.

Then, outgoing councilman Peter Krumeich was the first to be recognized with a proclamation recognizing his four years of service on the council.

“I would just say that it has been an honor … I really appreciate the opportunity to serve the community,” an emotional Krumeich said. He added that he feels the council has made some good decisions over the past few years and has made some strides in terms of programs and services for youth and addressed some pressing needs in the community.

He also noted that, while he did not win re-election, he is confident in those that were elected to office by the voters.

“I’m so happy, so thrilled for the new members that are up here,” he said. “Sad to not be a part of the dais but I am extremely happy for this town for who the voters elected.”

Krumeich went on to say that the new council members, along with current councilman Dave Bellinger, give him hope.

“There’s a bright future ahead for Escalon because of the great people here,” he said.

Mayor Pro Tem Robert Swift, who presided over the Monday night meeting in the absence of outgoing Mayor Ed Alves, was recognized for his 12 years on the council, including serving two as mayor.

Swift congratulated the incoming council members and urged them to attend conferences and training, also telling them to be prepared for “a huge learning curve” as they settle in to council service.

“You’re going to find out how many opinions there are out there,” Swift said. “Be transparent, listen to the public. Treat each other with kindness and professionalism.”

Krumeich, during his comments following the recognition, also gave a shout out to outgoing Mayor Alves.

“He is part of the leadership of this town that we all care about,” Krumeich said, adding that he has “a great amount of respect, a great amount of admiration” for Alves and all the work he has done on behalf of the city.

Alves, though not in attendance, was recognized for 28 years of service, dating back to April of 1994, with four terms as Mayor.

Following the administering of the oath by City Manager Dominique Romo, the newly elected council members took their seats on the dais, with Krumeich and Swift stepping down.

A brief recess followed for photo opportunities and congratulations, with selection of a new Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem next up when the council reconvened.

Councilman Hagan nominated councilman Dave Bellinger to serve as the next mayor, pointing to his experience on the council; Shawn Strohman seconded the nomination and it passed on a 5-0 vote. Bellinger was given a standing ovation from the audience as he moved in to the mayor’s spot on the dais.

“I’m honored by this appointment, very much so,” Bellinger said. “I’m happy to serve and do what I can to help this community.”

Hagan, who has served to fill out an unexpired term on the council, was nominated by Bellinger to serve as Mayor Pro Tem. Strohman also seconded that nomination and it was passed by a 5-0 vote. Hagan thanked his family for their continued support and said he looks forward to working with the council for the betterment of the city as well.

The newly elected council members all had the opportunity to say a few words as they took their seats; Engle indicating he was eager to work with staff and the community and was very appreciative of the support during the campaign.

“It’s a brand new day in Escalon and I feel that the five of us will all work together for the future of Escalon,” Strohman told the audience. “But we need your help so don’t forget to come back … your voice matters.”

Walker stressed that staff and the outgoing council members have been extremely helpful during the transition and she is happy to have the opportunity to make an impact for the city.

“I feel truly blessed to be up here sitting and looking out at so many familiar and friendly faces,” Walker said. “I want to thank my family and all my friends that have supported me in this process … I thank the community for trusting me with this responsibility. My listening ears are on.”

This was the final council meeting of the year for 2022.