Hubbard native sworn in as new mayor tonight

HUBBARD — Richard Keenan acknowledged the challenges the city faces but he’s willing to take them on for a variety of reasons.

He was sworn in as mayor by Judge Michael Bernard of Girard Municipal Court during a ceremony Tuesday night in city council chambers.

“I care about this town,” the 59-year-old city native said. “I’m pulled to hear the heart of the people.” He noted he did just that when he served as representative from the 4th Ward, often sitting in people’s homes listening to their concerns.

Keenan, who lives on Moore Street, also is no stranger to city government, so he’s not starting from scratch when it comes to experience. He served on city council in the early and late 1990s. He will serve out former Mayor Arthur Magee’s term until the end of 2011. Magee retired Dec. 12 because of health reasons.

Keenan also worked as a probation officer in Girard Municipal Court in the mid-1990s. He noted that service also will prove valuable. In Hubbard, there is a mayor’s court.

“It will take a little time to get up to speed,” he said. Keenan said council is working on the projected budget.

“There’s less funds to work with ... there are people in town not working. These are tough times,” Keenan said.

For the full story, read Wednesday's Vindicator or Vindy.com