Outgoing mayor Carla Brown and Councilmember Valerie Arkin honored; new mayor and councilmembers sworn in

Pleasanton's Dec. 17 council meeting opened with tributes to outgoing Mayor Carla Brown and Councilmember Valerie Arkin, who together have more than two decades of local public service. Regional representatives from state and county offices read proclamations and presented plaques recognizing their contributions, including work on public safety initiatives, alternative response services and preservation of local hillside character.

Donna Brown, representing Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, recited highlights of Brown's public service and noted a prepared resolution from Senator Steven Glazer's office commending the mayor. Residents and local stakeholders from a broad cross-section of civic groups then offered personal remarks praising initiatives such as the alternative response unit for behavioral-health calls, library and school work, volunteer support and local environmental efforts.

Later in the meeting, newly elected officials took the oath of office. Jack Balch was sworn in as mayor by the city clerk; Craig Eicher and Matthew Gaydos were sworn in as councilmembers by family members. Each made brief remarks. Balch said the mayor's chair "belongs to you, the people," and emphasized civic engagement and fiscal challenges ahead. Craig Eicher and Matthew Gaydos thanked supporters and pledged collaboration.

Outgoing Mayor Brown and Councilmember Arkin offered remarks of gratitude. Brown highlighted staff and regional partners and noted key milestones including water safety steps (PFAS well closures), downtown initiatives and infrastructure grants. Arkin reflected on years of education and library work and partnerships with regional agencies.

The council then recessed briefly before returning to its regular agenda.