California second-graders visit city hall

California second grade students learn about the workings of the city government. The four students in front are in the seats normally occupied by the fire chief, police chief, park supervisor and street supervisor.
California second grade students learn about the workings of the city government. The four students in front are in the seats normally occupied by the fire chief, police chief, park supervisor and street supervisor.

The California Elementary second grade students were informed about the working of the city government Tuesday, Sept. 20, during a visit to California City Hall and a mock city council meeting in the Council Chamber.
Mayor Norris Gerhart told the students about the role played by the mayor, the six members of the board of aldermen and the eight department heads. He showed the students the book which holds all of the city ordinances. He then said that the City Clerk has to check for any ordinances that may address problems which come up in the city, and if necessary, check with the City Attorney.
Gerhart explained that the mayor and six city council members volunteer their time. He also explained that the mayor is not a voting member unless a 3-3 vote by the council requires him to break a tie. He also said that those decisions are really tough.
The mayor is elected every two years, Gerhart explained, as are the council members. Three of the six council members are elected at the same time. That way, there are always three who have served a term.
He said the job of those elected officials is to be helpful and do the best that they can in doing what the constituents prefer. He then explained the work of each of the eight department heads - Electric Supervisor, Water and Wastewater Supervisor, Wastewater Operator, Recreation Supervisor, Fire Chief, Police Chief, Park Supervisor and Street Supervisor. The department heads are approved and hired by the council.
Several of the students went to the podium and asked questions which Gerhart answered. There are 110 second grade students. The second grade teachers are Amy Howard, Kristen Runyon, Nancy Abernathy, Randee Hall, Ashley Byrd.