A New Mayor: Gavel Passed to Joanne Sanders

There's a new mayor in town. At Monday night's meeting current Mayor Pro Tem Joanne Sanders was appointed to the Mayor position in a unanimous vote. "I knew [Sanders] first as a mom, as a friend and kind of as a mentor. And I think that the city is going to be astounded at what she’s going to do for Sonoma," Jennifer Irving said. Ken Brown, a 13-year member of city council and former mayor, was appointed to the Mayor Pro Tem position. Sanders, a working mother with small children said she plans to rely on the Mayor Pro Tem as an extension of her position to enhance her reach for ceremonies "as I believe the position is intended," she said. Sanders, who previously served as mayor, said residents should expect more polish and efficiency with her increased experience during this term. Community members gave kudos to outgoing mayor Laurie Gallian for her energy and persistence – attending numerous events during her term. “She has demonstrated qualities that are the perfect qualities for a mayor – sincerity, dignity, respect and the willingness to listen to diverse voices,” Lynn-Marie Devincent said. Still, Gallian said she intended to make the most of her remaining year on council. “I intend to be bigger and bolder on projects – which should be interesting to the other council members,” she said. “It is not over it is just beginning again.”