In the heart of Belvedere, the city council meeting on December 9, 2024, unfolded under the warm glow of city hall lights, where community spirit and recognition took center stage. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as council members prepared to honor local heroes and reflect on the contributions of outgoing officials.

The meeting began with a brief moment for public comment, which yielded no responses, allowing the council to swiftly move to a highlight of the evening: the presentation of the Citizen of the Year awards. Peyton Stein, representing the Citizen of the Year Committee, took the floor to announce the nominations for 2024. With a sense of pride, Stein revealed that the committee had selected Marcia and Michael Lasky as this year’s Citizen of the Year. This dedicated couple has collectively devoted over 80 years to volunteer work in the community, embodying the spirit of service that Belvedere cherishes.

In addition to the Laskys, Marsha Felton was nominated for the 2024 Emeritus Award. Felton has been a steadfast volunteer for the Belvedere Community Foundation since its inception in 1990, tirelessly working behind the scenes to support local initiatives. Stein expressed the committee's unanimous support for these nominations, emphasizing the importance of recognizing such community treasures.

As the council prepared to discuss these nominations further, the mayor exercised a bit of privilege, opting to address the appreciation for outgoing council members before continuing with the agenda. This shift underscored the council's commitment to honoring those who have served the community, highlighting the interconnectedness of leadership and civic engagement.

The meeting encapsulated a moment of gratitude and celebration, reminding residents of the vital role that dedicated individuals play in shaping the fabric of their community. As the council moved forward, the anticipation of recognizing these local champions lingered in the air, leaving attendees eager for the next steps in honoring their contributions.