Councilman Gives Heartfelt Goodbye

A person who is compassionate about his community finds ways to serve, to be involved. Last week, Sidney City Councilman Wendall Gaston gave an emotional goodbye, admitting he has one council meeting left in his years of public service.

“After 16 ½ years, it is kind of coming to an end,” Gaston said at the end of the meeting.

Gaston estimated he has attended more than 700 meetings, in addition to regional government meetings.

“It has been pretty rewarding,” he said.

He went on to list the numerous council members he has served with during his time on the city council, commending those who are poised to step up fill open seats. He went on to say in his time in public office, nearly everyone he met was there to do the right thing for their constituents.

“Everybody who served has wanted to do the right thing,” he said. “It gives me hope.”

Gaston recalled major projects he was involved in while seated on the council.

“Not very often do you get to make decisions that affect five to seven generations. Our new water system did that,” he said.

Gaston said the sitting on the city council is not always easy, but it is rewarding.

“It is hard, sometimes. Sometimes it is not hard. It has been a privilege to be here,” he said.

He was commended by other council members, including councilman Bob Olsen.

“We’re going to miss you,” Olsen said.