By Tim Schmidt Record Managing Editor For two nights a month for the past 18 years, Fred Flake has been a fixture at the dais at the Warrenton Board of Aldermen meetings.On Tuesday night, the longtime Ward 2 alderman stepped aside. Flake was joined by Ward 1 Alderman John Cornell who were recognized for their service to the city. Both outgoing aldermen decided to not seek re-election to their seats. With Flake’s departure from the board, 18 years of institutional knowledge leaves as well. “I would like to thank all the residents and registered voters in Ward 2 for their support and their cooperation for the past 18 years,” Flake commented. “I have appreciated their support very much. I would also like to thank everyone in the city organization for their support, cooperation and friendship throughout the years. It was greatly appreciated. I hope the team effort continues which will allow the city of Warrenton to prosper and continue to move in a positive direction.” Ward 2 Alderman Gary Auch noted that Flake had missed only one board meeting in his entire career — the night a visitation service was held in 2012 following the passing of his wife. “That is quite a record,” Auch said. Cornell, meanwhile, leaves the board following his first two-year term. He is a Republican candidate for circuit clerk and will face incumbent Brenda Eggering in the Aug. 5 primary. He said he appreciated his time on the board. “It has been an absolute privilege to serve on this board,” Cornell remarked. “It’s humbling to have the public’s trust.” He later added, “I tell everybody I was born in raised in Warrenton; not that it bestows on me any particular privilege but to let them know I have never had a reason to leave Warrenton. It’s a good community to raise a family.” He complimented the city staff for the work they do. “I want the citizens to realize that this city is served by a large staff of very dedicated and capable employees,” Cornell said. “That is one thing when I came on board, I thought the services were lacking. I will tell you, I can be critical as anybody and most department heads will attest to that, but I will tell you that the employees, rank and file, what they do for the money we pay, it is a true value.”
Ward 2 Alderman Fred Flake was recognized at Tuesday's board of alderman meeting for their service to the city. The plaque was presented by Mayor Dyer, right. Tim Schmidt photo.
Outgoing Warrenton Ward 1 Alderman John Cornell was recognized at Tuesday's board of alderman meeting for his service to the city. Tim Schmidt photo.
