California second graders visit mayor at city hall

<p>California Mayor Norris Gerhart, left in the photo, explains how the city government works to the second graders of California Elementary School. (Democrat photo / David A. Wilson)</p>

California Mayor Norris Gerhart, left in the photo, explains how the city government works to the second graders of California Elementary School. (Democrat photo / David A. Wilson)

The California Elementary second grade students were informed about the working of the city government Sept. 26, during a visit to California City Hall and a mock city council meeting in the Council Chamber.

Oak Street was blocked off in front of the California City Hall by the police department, to allow the students and their teachers to cross safely. Once in the second floor council chamber room, 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, 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.

The job of the elected officials is to be helpful and do the best that they can in doing what the constituents prefer. He 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 students asked questions which Gerhart answered.

There are 121 second grade students. The second grade teachers are Corey Blackburn, Ashley Byrd, Dana Gerke, Amy Howard, Danielle Moreau and Nancy Abernathy.