Mayor Kris Valstad and Councilman Joe Eddy McDonald’s Last Meeting

Despite the controversy surrounding Tuesday night's council meeting, audience members applauded and thanked outgoing Mayor and Councilmember for their years of service to the community.

Both men have been active in the community for decades, having served on numerous committees and local organization.

"I think that regardless of whether or not you agree or disagree with the decisions of the city council, I think we owe all of them to recognize they put in a lot of time to make this community as good as it is," said Frank Batara, a representative from Hercules Fil-Ams.

"I'm proud of the candidates, each and every one getting out there, interacting with the community, Valstad said. "When you take on a job like this, you take the good with the bad, and the bad with the good. I'm proud to serve this community, and I will continue on."

In his farewell speech, Joe Eddy McDonald said, "I wont say goodbye, I'll just say see you around." McDonald's family also spoke and gave him a special plaque.

Valstad and McDonald were presented with accolades from the California Contract Cities Association, Contra Costa College (McDonald is a distinguished alum), The Hercules Chamber of Commerce and Hercules Fil-Ams.