Dozens of people packed Los Gatos Town Hall for the swearing-in ceremony of Rob Moore as mayor of Los Gatos on Tuesday, with Maria Ristow elected as vice mayor by the Town Council.
Los Gatos holds its mayoral reorganization in December, recognizing the achievements of the outgoing mayor and electing a new mayor and vice mayor from the council.
“I didn’t think we could ever live here, let alone own a home, become part of a community, and eventually serve as mayor,” outgoing mayor Matthew Hudes said. “What a privilege all of that is.”
Hudes, who still has three years on his town council term, was recognized for his work caring for seniors, working with neighboring governments on wildfire and emergency preparedness and preserving the character of the town. Councilmembers praised Hudes for his commitment to his role as mayor, knowledge of business and local government and prioritization of financial stability and disaster preparedness.
“With deep analysis, he navigated uncharted waters of new housing laws, wildfire initiatives to mitigate loss of life and property and a path for an inclusive community in which all residents can thrive,” Councilmember Mary Bedame said of Hudes. “With integrity, passion and acumen, focused on prudent financial management and preservation of our small town charm, his stewardship has truly been dedicated to protecting the character of our town.”
Several prominent politicians were in attendance Tuesday, including Santa Clara County Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga, Saratoga Vice Mayor Tina Walia and Councilmember Belal Aftab, state Assemblymember Patrick Aherns, Monte Sereno Councilmember Ken Toren and Campbell Councilmember Terry Hines.
Abe-Koga presented Hudes with a certificate of commendation. A representative of Congressman Sam Liccardo’s office also presented a certificate to Hudes. Town staff shared a presentation recognizing Hudes’ achievements, and town manager Chris Constantin gave Hudes a ceremonial gavel in honor of his year as mayor.
“Your work is tireless, you’re very meticulous and we’ve made tremendous movement on some of our largest top strategic priorities with regard to wildfire preparation and disaster preparedness, fiscal management and fighting to retain our choice in terms of how buildings occur and to retain our small town charm,” Constantin said.
Hudes then nominated Moore as mayor, which was unanimously approved by the other councilmembers.
“He is someone who will bring fresh ideas to the challenges that we face, and it is more than time for a young person to step forward and have a go at it,” Hudes said of Moore’s nomination.
In his acceptance speech, Moore highlighted his priorities regarding housing; youth, seniors and families; street safety and traffic; emergency preparedness and community vitality. He emphasized that he would work to retain the character of the town and bolster its self-determination in the face of strict state housing law while also creating affordable housing and publicizing renter protections. He said he would continue to support the creation of the Los Gatos Community Center and programming there for children and seniors.
“Becoming the mayor of Los Gatos is, without a doubt, the greatest honor of my professional life,” Moore said. “I promise to be a mayor for all of Los Gatos; for every resident, every neighborhood and every perspective.”
Councilmember Rob Rennie was up next for vice mayor, but he declined the opportunity in favor of traveling with his wife. He said that he felt he was unable to fully support a first-time mayor and nominated Ristow as vice mayor. The Town Council also unanimously approved her appointment.
“What I feel now is that I absolutely will dedicate myself to supporting this council but also supporting our new mayor, who, although it’s his first time being mayor, I think has a strong sense of leadership and understanding.”
In addition to providing support, Ristow told Moore, “I will attempt to match half of your energy.”