Gillette Replaces Parks as Mayor

The City Council has unanimously elected Dennis Gillette as mayor. He takes over from outgoing Mayor Linda Parks.

Councilman Dan Del Campo was unanimously elected mayor pro tem during the Tuesday meeting.

Gillette said he is looking forward to the job.

“My feelings are all extremely positive, optimistic and I’m looking forward to the future,” said Gillette.

Gillette, who was elected to the council a year ago, has served as vice president for administrative services at Cal Lutheran University since 1988. Before that, Gillette spent 25 years with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department. He also served 11 years on the board of the Conejo Park and Recreation Department.

“I think this is the highlight of a wonderful career,” Parks said to Gillette on Tuesday.

On Tuesday evening, residents, and city and county officials thanked Parks for her service as mayor and showered her with flowers and gifts. Gillette also received recognition and gifts, but when the night ended, he realized the party was over.

“Now it is back to the business of helping to run and manage this multimillion-dollar municipal corporation,” said Gillette.

His fellow council members are optimistic about the next year.

“I think Dennis will do a very good job,” Councilman Mike Markey said. “He’ll be open, and he works with all his colleagues. He’ll be effective because I think he’ll represent the policies of the council and the city.”