OXNARD : Council Veteran Plisky Given a Spirited Goodby

Outgoing Oxnard Councilman Michael A. Plisky received a spirited, emotional and often humorous farewell Tuesday as second-term Mayor Manuel Lopez, incumbent Councilman Tom Holden and newcomer Dean L. Maulhardt took the oath of office.

“Because of your quiet demeanor and low-key management style we felt you would need this,” said Oxnard Police Chief Harold Hurtt, handing Plisky, known for his brash demeanor, a nightstick as the crowd of about 150 laughed heartily.

Representatives of Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-Simi Valley), state Sen. Cathy Wright (R-Simi Valley), Assemblyman Nao Takasugi (R-Oxnard), Supervisor John K. Flynn and the Oxnard Chamber of Commerce, Greater Oxnard Harbors and Tourism Bureau and others commended Plisky for his financial acumen and desire to run the city more efficiently.

“We appreciate the candor with which you made your views known,” said Steven Kinney of the Oxnard Economic Development Corp., which Plisky successfully fought to privatize. “No one has ever said, ‘C’mon Mike, tell us what you are really thinking.’ ”

Plisky did not seek reelection to the council, opting to run instead for the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Commissioners. He was elected to the harbor board, which governs the deep-water Port of Hueneme, and will begin his new position in January, he said.

In his final remarks as councilman, Plisky praised the other council members--including Lopez, with whom he traded countless political barbs over the years--as well as City Manager Tom Frutchey and City Atty. Gary Gillig.

And after receiving a cigar from Holden and a book from Lopez on the trains of North America--apparently a hobby of his--Plisky took the opportunity to honor his wife, former Oxnard City Clerk Mabi Covarrubias-Plisky, who is now deputy clerk for the city of Ventura.

“I’ve had many proud moments in my eight years on the Oxnard City Council,” Plisky said, his voice cracking, “but meeting Mabi has been my proudest moment. I love you, sweetheart.”

Plisky also said that if he had to thank one person it would be longtime Oxnard political consultant Don Gunn, who managed some of his campaigns.

“Don is kind of a behind-the-scenes person,” Plisky said of Gunn, who as usual was not present at the council meeting. “. . . He has helped me many times in my decision-making process.”

Plisky was first elected to the Oxnard City Council in 1984. He lost a campaign for mayor to Takasugi in 1988, returning to the council in 1990. He also lost a second bid for mayor in 1992 to Lopez.

After Plisky stepped down, Lopez, Holden and Maulhardt were sworn in as their friends, supporters and relatives applauded. Lopez then appointed Councilman Andres Herrera as mayor pro tem, replacing Plisky.