Utica City Council honors Ken Sikora for 35 years of dedicated service

Utica City Council held a poignant meeting on April 8, 2025, marking the farewell of Mayor Pro Tem Ken Sikora, who has dedicated 35 years to public service in the city. The council members and community leaders gathered to honor Sikora's significant contributions, reflecting on his long-standing commitment to Utica.

Sikora, who first joined the council in 1990, has been a pivotal figure in the city's growth and budget management. His colleagues praised his integrity, straightforwardness, and dedication to serving the community. Mayor Gus Calandrino expressed gratitude for Sikora's influence, stating, "He is the master of the budget," and emphasized the challenge of filling his shoes.

During the meeting, Sikora was presented with a plaque of recognition from the Macomb County Board of Commissioners, along with a bound book containing the minutes from his very first council meeting. This gesture highlighted the deep respect and appreciation the community holds for his service.

Retired Police Chief Sean Cody and State Representative Ron Robinson also shared their tributes, acknowledging Sikora's unwavering support for the city and its residents. Robinson noted Sikora's careful stewardship of public funds, saying, "Ken spends Utica's money like it's his own."

As Sikora embarks on a new chapter, moving out of the city, the council and community members expressed their best wishes for his future endeavors. The meeting concluded with a sense of gratitude for Sikora's legacy and a commitment to uphold the standards he set during his tenure. The council's next steps will focus on continuing the progress Sikora helped establish, ensuring that Utica remains a thriving community for all its residents.