By JIMMY LAWTON

OGDENSBURG – Family, friends and city staff gathered Monday to celebrate the career of Mayor William Nelson who led his last city council meeting.

Nelson had been mayor of Ogdensburg 16 years, and had previously served as a city councilor.

Nelson received accolades from Assemblywoman Addie Russell and Sen. Patty Ritchie, both who worked closely with the mayor during his terms. James Regan gave a proclamation to the mayor on behalf of Ritchie, while Judy Aldrich spoke on behalf of Russell.

Neither Ritchie, nor Russell was in attendance.

Nelson took the opportunity to offer his thanks and read the names of all current city staff members and every councilor he had served with during his time on the council.

“It takes a team effort to make things happen. I wanted to recognize each of you for your service,” he said.

Monday was also the last meeting for outgoing City Manager John Pinkerton and councilor William Hosmer.

Nelson thanked both men for the service and presented William Hosmer with a plaque, which has done for all councilors he has served with as mayor. Nelson said running for office takes a lot of courage and all who serve are deserving of recognition.

Nelson also pointed out that it takes a strong family to allow the sacrifice it takes for a public servant to fulfill one’s duties.

“It’s the families that suffer most,” he said.

Friends, family, city staff and the council joined Mayor Nelson as he gave his farewell speech.

Nelson also thanked the citizens for putting their faith in him for multiple terms as the city’s leader.

“I’m humbled,” he said.

Nelson said he would be closing one chapter in his life and beginning another and that his new found time would be focused on his family.