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BY CAROL ARNETT

Florissant’s two new council members are eager to serve the city. John Grib and Andrew Podleski were sworn in Monday night, along with returning councilmen Keith English and Mark Schmidt.

John Grib, who represents Ward 2, said he has worked with the city in various capacities for several years. “I’ve lived in the city since 1970,” he said. “I’ve been a public servant all my life.” Grib was on the city Planning and Zoning Commission for 20 years. “I’ve got a lot of time and sweat equity in the city,” he said.

Gribs said he calls the city “fabulous, affordable Florissant,” and sees that as one of the city’s strengths. “It’s a place where a young person or young couple can buy a nice house at a reasonable price,” he said.

“I see young people, like my own three children, deciding to buy houses in Florissant, and that’s very positive.”

Grib said the city’s sports leagues and parks were great for young people. “I’d like to keep moving forward and keep young people living here.”

Andrew Podleski, who represents Ward 6, said the residents of Florissant were its greatest asset. “There’s a lot of energy in this town,” Podleski said. “People are open to change, and to evolving and growing.” Podleski said he would like to get more people involved in the city.

“The best part of campaigning was talking to people and walking the neighborhoods,” Podleski said. He said he plans on scheduling regular ward meetings to meet with residents. His first Ward 6 meeting is set for Thursday, May 22 from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Florissant Valley Library, 195 New Florissant Road.

Podleski also said that he admired what Councilman Keith English was doing in Ward 4. English has been working to match teenagers who may need service hours with residents who could use some help. He said he plans to learn more about what English is doing. “I’d like to see more involvement, more people helping people,” Podleski said.

“A lot of people want to help. It can bring a sense of belonging to neighborhoods to have neighbors working together.”

In other matters, the council:

o Approved a request by Ruiz Mexican restaurant to allow a face change and new video sign for the restaurant.

o Approved a bill authorizing $418,792 to pay for renovations to the ice rink at the Eagan Center. The funds will be reimbursed through grant money.
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