WILMINGTON, MA — Longtime Selectmen Mike Newhouse and Lou Cimaglia, who have chosen not to seek re-election, were given an appropriate sendoff at their final board meeting earlier this week.
Both men received high praise from their fellow board members, along with Town Manager Jeff Hull.
“When I first started to gain an interest in public service, I watched you two gentlemen and the way you conducted yourselves,” said Selectman Chair Mike Champoux. “I was inspired by the example that you set and the model for which we follow here — to be able to disagree without being disagreeable and to formulate opinions and offer commentary without fear of repercussions.”
“You are examples of how good work gets done by good people,” continued Champoux. “I admire you both greatly personally. You’ve both been exemplary public servants to Wilmington.”
“The town is in better shape with you two gentlemen having served on this board,” said Selectman Mike McCoy. “You two are familymen. You’re two classy, classy individuals. I think this board are the five best selectmen that have ever served in this community. I really hate to see both of you guys go.”
McCoy handed Newhouse and Cimaglia bags of their favorite candies, noting that Selectmen really get to know each other and their families.
“I think so highly of both of you personally and professionally,” said Selectwoman Judy O’Connell. “Both of you have served this town so very well. You’ll have a legacy in town for years to come. You’re just two great guys who have done great things for Wilmington.”
“You’re one of the best Selectmen to have ever sat in these seats,” O’Connell told Newhouse. “You’re among the elite. If there was an all-star team, you’d be on it.”
“The professionalism you’ve shown on the board has been incredible for me,” said Town Manager Jeff Hull. “One of the things I’ve never taken for granted is the recognition you both have for the roles of the Town Manager and the Board, and you buying into the concept that the board sets policy but doesn’t micromanage the day-to-day affairs.”
“[Mike Newhouse] is a good man and a a great, great selectman,” said Selectman Lou Cimaglia. “He has done more for this town over decades than anyone will ever know. It’s inspiring to see the work, the hours, and the sacrifice that Mike gives and gives and gives. He’s been my mentor on the board and in life.”
Cimaglia thanked the residents who have supported him over the past nine years and, in particular, his wife and children, for making it possible to serve on the Board.
“I’m going to be proud to say I was a member of the Board of Selectmen in the Town of Wilmington,” Cimaglia said.
“I’m not in a position tonight to thank everybody who has been a part of a very special experience over the last 20 years,” said Selectman Mike Newhouse, but he did recognize his colleagues, Town Manager Jeff Hull, former Town Manager Michael Caira, Beverly Dalton, and past and present department heads.
Newhouse said he will properly thank additional folks at the appropriate time.
“When it comes to elected officials, we’re all replaceable,” noted Newhouse. “As soon as you find an elected official that thinks they’re not, that’s exactly the time that they are.”
Cimaglia and Newhouse were then presented with plaques commemorating their nearly 30 combined years of service to the town.
Watch the video below, courtesy of Wilmington Community Television. The farewells begin at 46:15 and last approximately 20 minutes:
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