OKEECHOBEE — “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the city,” said Marcos Montes de Oca, “But, I am looking forward to new ventures. I can’t wait to see what the future holds.” During the May 18 city council meeting, City Administrator Montes de Oca turned in his resignation effective June 18. “We’ve done a lot here. This city has completely done a 180. I am looking for a new challenge.”

All the council members said they enjoyed working with Montes de Oca and wished him well.

Montes de Oca was given a settlement package totaling $61,619.60.

Former Councilman Gary Ritter was suggested as a possible interim city administrator and the council was agreeable to the idea. Ritter, who happened to be at the meeting, said he was interested, and Attorney John Fumero will be talking to him to work out an employment agreement. Ritter said, “I feel honored that you trust me to come in and help with this. I really do.”

In other business, Councilman Wes Abney was honored during the meeting. Mayor Dowling Watford presented him with a key to the city. Abney was appointed to finish the term of Mike O’Conner after his resignation. After completing that term, he stayed on until the special election so the council would not be short a member. Last night was his last meeting, and Noel Chandler will be sworn in as councilman on June 1 at 5 p.m.

School Resource Officer Kelley Margerum was recognized for 15 years of service to the city of Okeechobee. “We appreciate your dedication, hard work and love for our schools and our community,” said the mayor.

James Pippin, a local Vietnam War veteran, spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting. Gregg Maynard asked him to speak, because Maynard said he was asked during a park design meeting what was the historical significance of the helicopter in the park. Maynard felt Pippin would be better able to answer that question.

Pippin explained the helicopter meant a lot to most veterans, but especially to Vietnam War veterans. “When we heard that pop, pop, pop. We knew we were getting out of there. If it wasn’t for a helicopter, I wouldn’t be here today. Those pilots flew in the middle of firefights to get us out. I take my hat off to them, and we have a few of them here in town.”

Pippin would like to see the helicopter put up on a pedestal. The mayor said they debated that back when they first got the helicopter and decided to put it down on the ground, but they can revisit it now that they are doing the park plans.

Finally, city firefighters were given an extension to complete their paramedic training.