RUTLAND, Vt. -
Rutland Mayor Chris Louras reminisces about the city's last three mayors, but now his predecessors are back at City Hall.
"But I can't recall any time where the current mayor, who obviously is serving in office, but also in this case the two former mayors are also serving the city. I don't think that has ever happened before," Jeff Wennberg said.
Wennberg was Rutland City mayor from 1987-1999 and still holds the record for the youngest and longest-serving mayor. Now, he's got a new role. Wennberg was appointed public works commissioner.
John Cassarino was next in line for the mayor's seat. He served from 1999-2007. He's now back in elected office, winning a seat on the Board of Aldermen. He had retired for six years to battle cancer. He says he ran for alderman due to a lack of qualified candidates and his history in office.
"There are a lot of young guys out there-- and I know what it is to be young, but you don't know what it is to be old," Cassarino said with a laugh.
The three mayors have worked together for decades-- a combined 50+ years. During their long history together, it hasn't always been a smooth ride. In response to a Rutland Herald article, Cassarino wrote an opinion piece saying the public was being misinformed about his time in office through misleading statements that have been peddled by politicians, including Mayor Louras.
"I am hopeful that was just campaign rhetoric. And I am confident that we will be able to work together in the future," Louras said.
Despite some past quarrels, all three say they look forward to working collaboratively.
"Mayor Cassarino was on the board for many, many years. He was on the board and board president when I was mayor. And he was an excellent board member. He was a terrific board president as well. Seeing him back there-- you know, it takes me back!" Wennberg said.
It might take him back, but all three men are hoping for a brighter future for the city.
