A transition of leadership is now official in Two Rivers.
Greg Buckley oversaw his last meeting as city manager of the Cool City.
Buckley, who has served in the role for about thirty years, was thanked and congratulated by members of the public and local and state representatives.
Assemblyman Paul Tittl of Manitowoc presented Buckley with a plaque on behalf of the state legislature in recognition of his work.
He then heard from Former City Clerk Kim Graves, who highlighted many things he did for the city.
She said there are, “Too many to list because your unwavering commitment and wisdom has set a high standard. When anyone came through the office doors with an idea, you listened. You very seldom said no. And you treated everyone with the utmost respect.”
Buckley also received a certificate from the Two Rivers Auxiliary and a thank-you speech from State Senator Andre Jacque, who said that Buckley embodies the city.
“In this role, you went far beyond what you need to do to be an effective city manager,” he stated. “And you really embraced giving myself and other opportunities to be engaged. But I think, most of all, you kind of transcended the requirements of the position to really enjoy everything that makes this area so great.”
Council President Scott Stechmesser also gave some thoughts.
“I just want to say thank you,” he declared. “Thank you for everything you’ve done for the city for making it a great place to live. And I’m happy that this is still home for a lot of us, thanks to you. And you’ve done a lot for us.”
Buckley then had the opportunity to say a few words, calling what he did the greatest honor of his life, serving such a special place.
“There’s a sense of history, a sense of heritage, an identity here,” he explained. “We’re in a unique geographic location blessed with these two river corridors that course through the community. Pretty much unfettered access to beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline from throughout the community, six miles up through Point Beach State Forest. Woodland Dunes Nature Center, the Van der Brohe Arboretum, we are truly in a magical place.”
Kyle Kordell Being Sworn In
He also said that the leaders of different departments, as well as everyone elected, seem to genuinely care about Two Rivers, and that’s a great thing to have when he leaves.
After the council worked through their action items, New City Manager Kyle Kordell took his oath of office.
Kordell has been the deputy city clerk and director of management down in Lake Zurich, Illinois, for the last twelve years.
Buckley says he will stay in the Cool City after his official last day on the job.
