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Tributes roll in at mayor's farewell meeting
(by Sue Reid - November 18, 2009)
Tributes roll in at mayor's farewell meeting
By SUE REID
A warmth exuded from the walls of Solon City Hall Monday as staff members and colleagues bid farewell to Mayor Kevin C. Patton, who was recognized for his quiet leadership style and lasting legacy to the community.
Mr. Patton, who served 12 years as mayor and did not seek re-election in November, presided over his last City Council meeting.
He will be succeeded by Councilwoman Susan A. Drucker, who will take office Dec. 1. She presented Mr. Patton with a gift, stating that the moment was a bittersweet one for her personally.
"I'm walking into office being left by an absolute gentleman," Mrs. Drucker said. A gracious and giving individual, Mr. Patton always has been there to lend a helping hand, she said.
"He brought honesty and integrity to this office, and I want to maintain that," Mrs. Drucker said. "He has ultimate class."
"The city is better off for having you in office for 12 years," Councilman Robert N. Pelunis said to Mr. Patton.
"You are definitely leaving a legacy," Councilman John T. Scott said. That includes putting together a top-notch staff to run the city and make it thrive, he said.
"The future of the community is only as bright because of the work and effort you put into it," Councilman Edward H. Kraus said.
Councilman Edward K. Suit said Mr. Patton took the city from a surplus of $7 million to one now of over $19 million. "Thank you for a job really well done," Mr. Suit said. He said he cherishes the friendship he has made with Mr. Patton.
Councilman Lon D. Stolarsky said Mr. Patton always has been most generous with his time and advice.
Fire Chief William J. Shaw told Mr. Patton that his guidance has enabled him to grow both personally and professionally.
City Planning Director Robert S. Frankland said Mr. Patton presided over the city during its most prosperous period in history. That was a direct result of his leadership and direction, Mr. Frankland said.
"Thank you for your support, guidance patience and integrity," Mr. Frankland said. "You are truly the most decent person I've ever met, and it's been an honor to work in your administration."
Human Resource Director Thomas Cornhoff said, "You have taught me how to have integrity, how to be a problem solver and most importantly a leader. I will always appreciate that."
Service Director Thomas Bandiera said, "You are an example to me and everyone in the city."
Public Works Director James S. Stanek said, "I've always been proud to call you boss. You make us able to come to work and be proud of what we do for a living." Allowing people the ability to figure out things for themselves is how you made people grow, Mr. Stanek said. "You were excellent at that."
Mr. Patton's assistant, Sally Deitrick, said she found in Mr. Patton a "dear friend," one who she has a great deal of admiration for.
"It's been a wonderful ride, and I thank you, boss," Mrs. Deitrick said.
Mr. Patton said it has been his honor and privilege to serve as the city's 11th mayor. "It has been a rewarding, challenging and downright difficult experience in 12 years," he said, "but Solon stands strong."
Mr. Patton cited milestones over his years in office, where, along with City Council, department directors, employees and involved citizens, he achieved a number of significant accomplishments. Some of those included the widening of SOM Center Road (Route 91), the establishment of the Solon Center for the Arts, the service department building expansion, the return of the Home Days celebration, as well as the major expansion and recent upgrades of the city's water-reclamation plant.
"My philosophy has always been to hire the best people and cut them loose and let them do their job," Mr. Patton said. Working alongside all of these individuals, Mr. Patton said, Solon has evolved into a "premiere community."
Mr. Patton thanked a number of individuals, including his wife, Linda, and his family. "Last but not least, I thank God for staying close to me" and helping me stay focused during tough times. He said not returning to office is a decision he has struggled with greatly.
"I don't know if I made the right decision, but I have to go with it," he said. "It is important to have an end to journey toward, but in the end, it's the journey that counts."
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