Lorenz, Ankeny Council Members Speak on Why Mayoral Appointment was Best Option

Following his swearing in Monday night, new Ankeny Mayor Gary Lorenz spoke to council members before taking an opportunity to say a few words to community members in attendance.

While he acknowledged conversation among community residents regarding whether or not appointment was the best idea, Lorenz said he encourages Ankeny citizens to have faith in the city council and what they were elected to do.

“The sole purpose of this body is to do the work of the citizens of Ankeny,” Lorenz said at the conclusion of Monday night’s meeting. “I know you didn’t vote for me; however, you did vote for these people to represent you and I think they practiced common sense in their decision to go with an appointment over a special election.”

In a 5-0 vote, Lorenz was appointed mayor of Ankeny at a special council meeting. Lorenz was one of seven applicants who applied for council consideration.

Lorenz said he appreciated the confidence council members have in him. Lorenz told each council member he plans to make the remainder of this mayoral term “enjoyable.”

“I’ve sat in your seat. I’ve felt the pressure and the frustration, but I’ve also felt a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment from the work that I did,” Lorenz said. “You can’t operate at your best if you’re not deriving some level enjoyment from it.”

Prior to the vote, council members offered comments on the appointment process.

Councilman Wade Steenhoek said each applicant had their strengths.

“We had a chance to talk with several of the candidates who were interested,” Steenhoek said. “I gave it a lot of thought, but at the end of the day the one that surfaced to me was the (candidate) who had the highest level of trust with the sitting council, the city manager and the community.”

Councilman Jim McKenna echoed Steenhoek’s sentiments.

“It was reassuring to see that much interest and energy from those who live here,” McKenna said. “It’s great because sometimes we don’t find enough of that, and I appreciate those seven for their time and effort.”

Rick Hermann, a member of Ankeny Taxpayers for Responsible Government, also commented on behalf of the group prior to the vote. He commended the council on their decision to appoint a new mayor.

“Due to the projected expense of a special election, we encourage an appointment,” Hermann said. “We think our elected officials can make a fair and impartial appointment, and Ankeny will have the opportunity to elect a mayor to a full term in November 2013.”