"There are a lot of things that I've been involved in that I think helped prepare us for some of the things going on around us," he said. "And I think it will be a matter of (the new mayor) integrating those into his or her schedule, and understanding the city processes."

Ellertson was appointed under the same process eight years ago, and said although it is a bit different, he thinks it has served the community well.

"I know it's been a good experience for me," he said. "And I think it's served the people well; at least, I hope they feel that way."

Dameron said the city is sad to see the mayor go but excited to see him fill his new role.

"He's been such a great mayor," he said. "He's not only a great administrator, he's a great person. We hate to have him depart, but we're real excited to see him go."

Dameron noted that Ellertson won't be easy to replace.

"It'll just be different when he leaves," he said. "They'll be new roles, new directions."

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E-mail: mdecker@desnews.com