Sevald takes Oath of Office

With the help of Town Attorney Fred Johnson, Mayor Nicholas Sevald took the Oath of Office Friday, Jan. 16, inside Town Hall. Sevald's speech included expressions of appreciation for his family "for their love and support throughout the campaign" and "for allowing his continued test of that love and support" while he fulfills his duties of office. "Wayn, Theo, Lyla, and Davers, you are the reason I do anything at all," said Sevald. "I am so proud of each of you and am excited to see you grow and flourish in this wonderful town. Mom and Dad, your love is immeasurable, and I am the man I am today because of your love and guidance. Stefi, you are my best friend and my closest ally. Thank you for everything you do. You have made me a stronger person and have given me the confidence to do things like this."

Continuing, Sevald said, "I can't believe how fortunate I am to have found myself among such wonderful humans. A sampling of what we have here in Wahkiakum County, and in the town of Cathlamet. Thank you all for your support and for placing your trust in me. I will strive to be worthy and to build on that trust in the coming years. I am excited to bring a new perspective to the town's government, and am also excited to work with our current council."

Sevald also congratulated new Councilmember Mike Severson. "I know each member of the council has a deep love for the town and will always have it's best interests at heart," said Sevald. "I am excited to rise to the challenge of chairing the town meetings and being able to help provide the tools necessary for them to make the best-informed decisions possible. I am also grateful to be able to work with such a talented group of individuals employed by the town itself. I am very excited to work with Sarah, Michelle, and Tory, as well as Vicki and Dan of the Library. They are all excellent at their respective positions and undoubtedly will rise to any challenge the future holds."

Further expressing his desire to work with both Council and Town staff, Sevald said, "During these challenging times, we must all remember that we are in the same boat and that it will take all of us together to navigate these unfamiliar waters. Through teamwork, critical thinking, and a positive outlook, Cathlamet can weather any storm that comes our way. It should not be our differences that keep us apart, but an opportunity to come together and explore new ideas. As my father always says, 'Many hands make the work light.' Right now, we need all hands on deck. Thank you again, and sorry for all the nautical references. Go Mules!"