VILLA PARK
Reelected City Councilman Bob Bell was selected this week to serve in the ceremonial post of mayor. Bell, who won back his seat in November for a third term, was nominated for the post by newly elected Councilman Robert E. McGowan, who was chosen to serve as mayor pro tem.
Councilman Rich Freschi, the outgoing mayor, had nominated Councilwoman Patricia L. Bortle for the posts of both mayor and mayor pro tem. “Pat’s done a good job and deserves to be mayor,” Freschi said, noting her work on the city’s picnic and other civic involvements. Bortle had served as mayor pro tem last year.
Meanwhile, in a special ceremony at the start of the meeting, McGowan and Russell Patterson took the oath of office. The council also recognized outgoing councilmen Joseph S. Barsa and Barry L. Denes.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
