Brandenburg picks up reins

The obvious distress of Pine Haven's council as they convened their regular Tuesday night meeting last week represented their respect for and friendship with Mayor John Cook, for whom all present grieved.

As the meeting convened, each council member answered as their name was called – all but Cook, for whom Mayor Pro-Tem Karla Brandenburg spoke, "Excused."

She officially informed those present that the mayor had passed away, stating, "It is with great regret and respect for his family that I inform the public of the passing of our mayor, John Cook, this past weekend. John served on the council from 2014-2020 and served as mayor from June 2020 until his passing. In my opinion, he's one of the best mayors we've had. I've only served under three, but he's done a very good job."

"Since John was a sitting mayor," she continued, "We were able to obtain permission from the governor to fly our state flag at half mast in John's honor for this week."

A moment of reflection for Cook was observed before the next step of seating an appointed mayor was taken. Brandenburg was unanimously approved to be sworn into the office of Mayor of Pine Haven by her fellows.

Councilwoman Emily Smith said of the Pro-Tem, "She has served as Pro-Tem mayor [and] been on the council. She seems like a strong and very ready prepared person." Brandenburg was immediately sworn into office.

As Cook's health deteriorated since August, Brandenburg had been conducting the duties of mayor so was able to pick up the reins with little problem.

The empty council seat will be appointed in the near future with preliminary discussion introducing three candidates provided at a special meeting this week. Each of the three will be asked individually and given time to accept or refuse as per the recommendation of town attorney Pat Carpenter.