The Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly reorganized on Oct. 22, naming Peter Ribbens, of Nikiski, the new assembly president and Kelly Cooper, of Homer, the new assembly vice president.
When former Assembly President Brent Johnson opened nominations for his role during the meeting, Cooper nominated Ribbens. Cooper’s name was also thrown into consideration by Willy Dunne.
When the two candidates were given time to speak their own cases, Cooper said that Ribbens comes to meetings prepared, is effective and efficient — “I think you will be an excellent president.”
Ribbens said that in his year on the assembly he has appreciated the “collegial manner” with which the assembly does business.
“I like to think we really have the constituents of the Kenai Peninsula Borough’s best interest in heart,” he said. “We’re trying our best to do a good job for them.”
Ribbens prevailed with eight votes in favor to one cast for Cooper.
When the assembly turned its attention to the vice president’s seat, member Ryan Tunseth nominated Cooper — “she’s very connected, very engaged in her community.”
Member Cindy Ecklund nominated Tyson Cox, who formerly held the vice president seat, to retain his role.
“It would be my pleasure to serve as your vice chair,” Cooper said. “Any of you that have worked with me know that I am kind of a policy wonk; I like to stick to our processes and make sure that we’re being aware of decisions we make now — how they will affect us in the future.”
Cox said he’s enjoyed his time as vice president, that he likes the responsibilities of driving meetings and engaging with the borough clerk.
Only a single vote separated the two candidates. Cooper secured five to Cox’s four.
A full recording of the assembly meeting is available at kpb.legistar.com.
Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.
