On January 1, the first day of the new year, supporters, family members, and citizens of Valparaiso gathered at city hall to watch as their newest elected officials were sworn-in.
An optimistic atmosphere filled the hall as spectators chattered before the ceremony began. For the first time in over 20 years, the city government will be bipartisan - with a Republican mayor and Democratic majority council. It is also the first time the City of Valparaiso has seen a women-majority council.
“I feel so fortunate to have this opportunity to continue serving in this capacity of representing the people of District 1 and Valparaiso as a whole,” said Diana Reed, who will serve her third term in the District 1 Council Seat. “This is an incredible and eye-opening opportunity to see how the city government works and how we can do whatever we can to serve our community members.”
Jon Costas, the city's new mayor-elect, is similarly eager to embrace the new opportunity presented by the city’s voters.
“The voters have decided that this is the best arrangement for the next four years, and our charge is to find the opportunities and benefits that are unique, even exclusive, to this new reality,” Costas said. “In other words, how do we find the gold in this new and unfamiliar goldmine? We must strive for what I call refined unity, a unity that is not simply agreeable convenience but one that is born from robust discussions and diverse perspectives. A consensus that is forged on the far side of the debate. That is our charge and golden opportunity.”
Emilie Hunt, newly elected one of two Council At Large seats, reflected on how the path to such a dynamic setup was forged.
“I’m so proud to be standing here today, trusted to represent those that have called Valparaiso home their whole life as well as those who, like me, chose Valparaiso as their home,” Hunt said. “I’m even more proud to be standing here among women who, like my sisters and my mom, have blazed the pathway here, and, of course, to the residents of Valparaiso - none of us got to these seats alone. I stand here because of you and will stand here for you.”
The other Council At Large seat is now filled by Ellen Kapitan, who is already eager to make an impact on the community she loves.
“I was taught to be the change you want to see in the world,” Kapitan said. “You voted that you’re ready for that change. Our community is ready for thoughtful change that puts residents first. It’s ready for balanced leadership, ready for leaders who will listen and collaborate. We’re ready for the next four years. All voices are powerful, you just have to use them.”
Costas closed the swearing-in ceremony by highlighting that positive conversations between his office and the new council are already well underway.
“It is readily apparent by the conversations and meetings that have taken place since the election - we know it’s time to take off our political glasses and strap on lenses of cooperation,” he said. “Today, we begin this journey together - one that will result in brighter tomorrows for all of us who call the Vale of Paradise home.”
To learn more about the City of Valparaiso, visit www.ci.valparaiso.in.us.
