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Newscast: Former Willits Mayor Bruce Burton to Fill Vacancy on Willits City Council

Willits City Councilmembers: Tom Allman, "Gerry" Gonzalez, Larry Stranske, and Matthew Alaniz in a council meeting Jan. 22, 2025
KZYX News
The Willits City Council met on January 22, 2025 to fill a vacancy left by the resignation of Greta Kanne

The Willits City Council on Wednesday appointed Bruce Burton, a former mayor and councilmember and owner of the Willits Redwood Company, to fill a vacancy left by the resignation of Councilwoman Greta Kanne. Burton will serve the remaining two years of Kanne's term.

The council considered seven candidates during a public interview process: Robin Leler, Raghda Zacharia, Sherrie Ebyam, Bruce Burton, Daniel Samson, Ithaca Moore, and Garrett Moore. Burton, a seasoned politician who served on the council for two decades, emphasized his extensive experience and commitment to addressing core city services, including water, sewer, police, and road maintenance.

Burton's nomination initially failed. Mayor Larry Stranske supported Sherrie Ebyam, while Councilmember Matthew Alaniz backed Robin Leler. Ultimately, Stranske shifted his support to Burton, enabling the nomination to pass.

City Attorney James Lance explained that the council chose to fill the vacancy by appointment to avoid the costs and delays of a special election. City Manager Brian Bender outlined a streamlined process for candidate interviews, limiting each session to approximately 20 minutes.

During his interview, Burton highlighted his dedication to the community and his readiness to return to public service after an eight-year hiatus. "I’ve been a Willits resident for a long time and have spent time in those chairs," he said. "I have a business here, grandchildren being raised here, and a vested interest in the town’s future."

Robin Leler, a former candidate for council, focused on community engagement, fiscal responsibility, and enhancing mental health services. She advocated for projects like bringing the farmers’ market back to City Park and redeveloping the old Howard Hospital site.

Sherry Ebyam emphasized her financial expertise, referencing her tenure as a school district chief financial officer and her involvement with local boards, including the Measure B Mental Health Treatment Act.

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Elise Cox worked as an editor and reporter for the San Jose Mercury News, Knight Ridder, U.S. News & World Report and other publications prior to moving to the Mendocino coast in 2022. She began reporting stories for KZYX in August 2024 and became news director in December 2024.