Newcomer Ned Davis joins Westlake City Council; Klessig named mayor
By Sophia Fischer sfischer@theacorn.com

Ned Davis

Westlake Village has a new mayor. Philippa Klessig was appointed to the position by fellow City Council members during the council's reorganization meeting Nov. 28. Bob Slavin was chosen mayor pro-tem.

"I plan to continue to listen to you and respect your varying viewpoints," Klessig told the other members. "It's not so essential that we agree, but what is really important is that we do communicate, that we do listen."

As part of the annual council reorganization, Klessig, who was reelected last month to a second four-year term, was sworn in along with newcomer Ned Davis.

Davis, who earned the most votes of four candidates in the Nov. 6 council election, thanked family and friends and promised to be available to residents.

"Here I am, the new guy on the council," Davis said. "I'm accessible if you need anything. Please get ahold of me."

Outgoing member Jim Bruno, who did not seek reelection, completed his four-year term and was recognized for his contributions to the city. Residents including City Council candidate Carol Kirschbaum thanked him for keeping citizens informed and being a voice for the community.

Philippa Klessig

Robert Azarello presented Bruno a plaque from supporters. He said he hoped the honor, the first "Westlake Village Beacon of Light," would be awarded annually.

"Jim Bruno has meant a lot to us," Azarello said. "You've demonstrated by your deeds that you think and care very deeply about us, and we'll miss you."

Outgoing Mayor Sue McSweeney was the only council member to officially recognize Bruno. She praised his financial insight and long hours of hard work.

"Maybe you were misunderstood at times. I think human beings can be misunderstood often. Everyone in the city knows you did everything you did with a caring heart," McSweeney said. "I know wherever you go, you will be in service to people because that's who you are."

Bruno said he plans to remain involved in the community. He thanked residents for "letting me have the privilege of serving you. I took my oath of office seriously and promised to be a voice of the people," Bruno said.

In accepting the one-year post of mayor, Klessig vowed to work with the community to "build on the feeling of inclusiveness."

"It isn't about what I want. It's about what you want," Klessig said. "Let's work together and not let problems fester."

She said she would like to focus on ideas she heard from residents while campaigning the past few months. Thoughts included creating a community center, increasing arts opportunities, promoting a healthy lifestyle and cutting back on water use. Residents want more services but are also concerned that the city remain "fiscally sound," according to Klessig.

"What was meant was that the more we are able to pay for, the higher we can set our goals," Klessig said.

"These are exciting times, and I am proud to be part of them," the new mayor said.