CALDWELL, Idaho — Caldwell Mayor Garret Nancolas marked a historic milestone Thursday afternoon. The longtime mayor delivered his final State of the City address.
There's a lot to be proud of like Indian Creek Plaza, the place where he gave his speech. The mayor said there's been a lot of struggles over the years. For example, he had no idea that the plaza would be so much work. It took seven long years to see the project come to fruition. Nancolas says it was worth it.
He says Indian Creek Plaza has completely changed downtown Caldwell. It's now a place where businesses are thriving and visitors and residents want to come. He's proud that Caldwell has become a "family-oriented" city with new parks, lots of open space and pathways.
"We have built Caldwell on a firm foundation," Nancolas said.
Among the city's other accomplishments while mayor, Caldwell has seen a significant decrease in crime, lots of new development and road projects that will make it easier to get around. He talked about a much-needed widening project of Highway 20/26.
He concluded his hourlong speech by saying that while people did not always agree with him, it was huge honor to serve the community for so many years.
"It's been a privilege to work with each and every one of you," he said.
Nancolas is the longest serving mayor in Caldwell's history. By the time his term expires in January 2022, he will have been on the job for 24 years.
Earlier this spring the mayor announced that he won't run for re-election in November. He's been elected six times since 1997. The most recent election was in 2017 when he got more than 75% of the vote.
Nancolas said he looks forward to spending more time with his wife, two children and two grandchildren.
Watch Caldwell Mayor Garret Nancolas' final State of the City address here:
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