George Pappas sworn in as Atlantic Beach mayor

Village to replace 150 trees that died after Sandy

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In the June 17 election for mayor of Atlantic Beach, 391 village residents voted for George Pappas, and it seemed like every one of them was crammed into Village Hall for Monday’s board meeting to see Pappas take the oath of office.
For the first time since 1996, Atlantic Beach has a new mayor — Pappas is the village’s fifth (chart, page 15) — after Stephen Mahler’s 18-year tenure. Incumbent Trustees Linda Baessler and Edward Sullivan, who ran unopposed, were also sworn in. All terms are two years.
“I am excited, honored and privileged to serve the village as your mayor,” said Pappas. He thanked Mahler, who was not in attendance, for his years of service.
Pappas, the superintendent of Sanitary District 1, admitted to being somewhat nervous prior to the meeting, but said that the feeling quickly evaporated. “Almost immediately and way gone,” he said afterward. “I’ve chaired public meetings before.” S.D. 1 collects the trash and recyclables in the Five Towns and portions of surrounding communities.
It was standing room only in Village Hall, which was abuzz with the anticipation of having a new mayor. Residents burst into applause when Pappas was sworn in. The energy fueled a meeting that had Beautification Committee member Justine Zimmerman saying, “This crowd and enthusiasm is just what we need, and all of you to participate. With all of you we can do more.”
Pappas, a resident of Atlantic Beach for nearly 14 years, reached out to several village officials before taking office, including Beach Manager Steve Lassoff. “I took George on the back of my quad to see all the beaches,” Lassoff said. “My staff really appreciated the visit.”
In several exchanges with residents, Pappas made it clear that, though new to the position, he knows how to handle a discussion. “You can have open and transparent government as long as you have reasonable dialogue,” he said.

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