Matanuska-Susitna Borough

Dan Mayfield and Ted Leonard Say Goodbye

Mat-Su | Stefan Hinman | Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Tonight was the last Regular Assembly Meeting for Assembly Members, Dan Mayfield and Ted Leonard. They were both highly regarded by their peers who expressed many kind thoughts and memories of the two dedicated elected officials.

Dan Mayfield is a two-term Assembly Member who exits having seen as much change in the borough over his time as any Assembly Member before him. He's been a part of numerous groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings on Mat-Su Borough roads, parks, schools, trails and more. As a Mat-Su Fish and Wildlife Commissioner, he fought to bring more fish to the Mat-Su, seeing massive success in the 2020 Board of Fisheries Meeting. HIs focused, measured approach to challenging issues, such as the 2018 Cyber Attack and Earthquake, showed why he was selected as the deputy Mayor in his final term. Always present, always active and always engaged. The issues mattered to Dan and the results show it.

Ted Leonard served one-term in Assembly District 4. He will be remembered fondly by his peers and Borough staff for his quiet wisdom and thoughtful questions on issues. One of his most notable achievements resulted from a drive through of the troubled Williwaw subdivision, located just outside of Wasilla City limits. Residents had reached a breaking point there and had asked the Assembly for help. They probably didn't believe anything would actually happen but Ted was listening. He requested a tour of Williwaw by MSB Code Compliance; he had to see for himself. His shock at seeing open drug dealing taking place right in front of him, in the middle of the day and around children stirred him to action. Working closely with the community, MSB Code Compliance and others, a massive clean-up of the neighborhood commenced. The result was less crime, less trash, safer bus stops and a renewed sense of pride by long-time residents; they won't soon forget Ted Leonard in Williwaw.

 

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