Calabasas Elects A New Mayor; Bozajian Gives Parting Remarks

CALABASAS, CA — Mary Sue Maurer was elected mayor of Calabasas unanimously Wednesday evening, with David Shapiro taking her place as mayor pro tem.

Maurer will take over for James Bozajian, who is finishing his sixth term as mayor of Calabasas.

As Maurer and Shapiro addressed the city and set their goals, Bozajian offered his closing remarks during Wednesday's council meeting.

Members of the community welcomed the incoming team and honored Bozajian's work with the city, including Senator Henry Stern, who represents Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Malibu, Thousand Oaks and more.

Say Hello To Mary Sue Maurer, Mayor of Calabasas

Maurer, sworn in by her son Derek Villadolid, is returning to the position of mayor for her fourth term. She was first elected to the council in 2005 and served as mayor in 2008, 2012 and 2016, according to the city's website.

"I am humbled, and frankly somewhat daunted, by the upcoming year and the continued uncertainties of COVID. And yet I'm also feeling extremely confident because this council works so well together, and we share the commitment to do what is in the best interest of the city and its residents," Maurer said.

Maurer said she is looking to set explicit, measurable goals for the city with public participation. She will also prioritize sustainability efforts, she said, like water conservation, food waste, green house gas emissions by local businesses and residents and more.

Maurer applauded the city's recent move to 100 percent clean renewable energy with the Clean Power Alliance, Calabasas' electricity provider. Maurer is on the Clean Power Alliance's board.

See Also: Calabasas Votes For 100% Renewable Energy

Shapiro doubled down on Maurer's commitment to environmental causes and sustainability, and emphasized his interest in involving the community in municipal decisions.

"The past years have brought, in my opinion and I think everyone's, too much division in all of our lives. I'd like to work this year to find common ground, common goals, as have been mentioned, going forward. [I want] a much more unified world that we all can live in, and I think if we start locally, we can lead by example for the rest of the city, the state and the world," Shapiro said.

A Bittersweet Goodbye To James Bozajian

After six terms as mayor, Bozajian will move into a role as a city council member.

"In the past two years we've been confronted with unprecedented difficulties, unlike any the city has ever endured," Bozajian said. He added: "I'm often asked whether the pandemic has made my job easier, what with the reduced level of standard activities. In truth it's actually very much harder to work effectively in such an environment in order to engage with the community."

He shared a handwritten letter from a long-time Calabasas resident thanking him for his time as mayor, saying moments like that have kept him going through this difficult time.

Bozajian thanked his council members, staff and the residents of Calabasas for their time and work.

Many members of the community took the podium to thank Bozajian for his time as mayor. Stern expressed admiration for Bozajian's dedication.

"[This was] about as tough a year as I can recall in public service. You've been at the helm of Calabasas through very tough times for our people, for our land ... literally putting all your heart into this job. I appreciate having a partner like that," Stern said.

Many others, including representatives from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, the Valley Economic Alliance and The Calabasas Coalition came down to city hall to gift Bozajian proclamations, certificates and even framed photos.

His fellow council members applauded Bozajian for dealing with the pandemic and all its logistical challenges and for his constant attentiveness.

"The frustration you carry with you when things dont work the right way is exactly what this community feels, and its that kind of diligence that we need in government. We will dearly at the helm but I congratulate you on getting a breather here for a minute," Stern said.