Mosca's City Council Seat Up For Grabs

Tuesday marked the final Sierra Madre City Council meeting for Councilmember Joe Mosca. He officially resigned from his position last month during the October 11 meeting.

“It seems odd and weird to say goodbye,” said Mosca last night. Mosca has been on the city council since 2006. 2010 marked the beginning of his second term, and he would have served until 2014 had he not resigned.

Mosca contributed to the discussion on all agenda items except one- the discussion over whether to appoint a new councilmember to his seat or open up the decision to voters at the April 2012 polls.

By law, the council can either appoint a new member or allow the public to vote. The council heard from several community members at the meeting asking for the chance to elect a new councilmember.

The new councilmember will serve out the remainder of Mosca’s term. Afterwards, they will be allowed to seek re-election for two more consecutive terms.

The council has not yet made a decision regarding the open seat.

Mosca will be moving to England with his partner Matt Bosse, an HIV physician and researcher. Bosse recently received a promotion and job opportunity in London. The couple has two children.

During his resignation speech, Mosca said that the relocation is temporary and that he plans on returning to Sierra Madre.

“It’s been an honor to serve as your elected representative. I will cherish the moments I’ve spent on the city council,” said Mosca.

“When I come back I will definitely… get involved and serve on some other board or commission. I thank you for your support.”

Mosca received a Certificate of Recognition from Tim Donnelly’s office, a Certificate of Commendation from Supervisor Michael Antonovich and a Certificate of Commendation from the Pasadena Unified School District. He also received a Sierra Madre tile from the City Council.

The council and meeting attendees applauded Mosca after his speech. Mayor John Buchanan said he could not articulate his words.

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