City Council Swears in New Officials

Aside from the city business at hand, at Tuesday’s Hermosa Beach City Council meeting, there was the matter of reaffirming just who would take a part in leading those meetings for the next four years.

City councilmen Peter Tucker and Michael DiVirgilio, after both emerged victorious in their reelection campaigns, were sworn into their positions once again Tuesday night, as was the new city treasurer, David Cohn.

Elaine Doerfling was also sworn in as the city clerk.

“I would like to thank the Hermosa Beach residents that voted for giving me this terrific honor of serving another four years,” said DiVirgilio, after saying his oath. “The last four years have been incredible. I feel very privileged.”

Two city council seats were open for the 2011 election, and according to the County of Los Angeles Election Results website, DiVirgilio received 1,521 votes, equaling 29.28 percent of the vote.

“It’s become clear over the last few months that people are focused on taking care of their lives and they hire us to take care of the community,” DiVirgilio said. “With that said, I’m ready to get back to work.”

Coming in second was Tucker, who received 1,450 votes, totaling 27.92 percent of the vote.

Tucker beat out environmental engineer H.S. Fangary, who received 1,223 votes, and business consultant Steve Powers, who garnered 1,000 votes.

“Thank you to the residents who voted for putting me back in office,” Tucker said. “I know you believe in me and the passion I have for this community.”

“I know Hermosa Beach prides itself on family values and living a casual lifestyle, and I’m here to continue making that possible,” Tucker added.

Cohn, who was sworn in as the new city treasurer, will replace former city treasurer of 18 years, John Workman.

Three days after losing a tight battle to Cohn for reelection, Workman died of an apparent heart attack.

“I want to pay respects to my predecessor, the late John Workman,” Cohn said. “I’m sure he will be missed for his warm personality and his deep sense of dedication to the community. That is what keeps the community strong.”