City Council honors Irv Mills

At the city council meeting on April 2, Mayor Joanne Sanders honored Irving J. Mills with a proclamation commending him for his continued dedication to the community and extending to him sincere appreciation for all the years of his devoted service. “You came here to retire,” she said to Mills, as she prepared to present him with his framed proclamation, “but you did anything but.”
Mills, whose service in World War II included time as a prisoner in Stalag 17, stood and said, “I have prepared a few remarks, that won’t last much more than three hours.” Everyone laughed. “The gods have been kind to me over the years,” he said. ”I’m glad to be here – glad to be anyplace, tonight!”
First District Supervisor Valerie Brown gave him an emotional tribute. “I am incredibly proud tonight to provide you with recognition from the Board of Supervisors,” she said. “For 25 years, you’ve been my mentor. You taught me about civic leadership responsibility, and who I needed to be to be a leader.”
A number of letters accompanied the proclamation, honoring Mills for his integrity, leadership, scholarship and judgment and recognizing that his contributions to the city have made Sonoma a better place. Jennifer Yankovich, Executive Director and CEO of the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce, praised his contribution to the Chamber over the years. “Irv’s outstanding commitment to support and promote local businesses and the Valley’s economy is second to none,” she wrote. “Irv stepped up to take over the post of Executive Director of the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce during a particularly challenging time. During his leadership and tenure, the Chamber significantly increased its membership and financial solvency. Irv continues to be active in the Chamber, serving as an advisor and offering historical insights.”
Ig Vella of Vella Cheese wrote about Mills’ integrity. “Prior to Irv undertaking any task or espousing a position on a subject, he studies it from all aspects. He then discusses this view point with everyone and unless he can be persuaded that it is flawed, he pursues it with vigor.” He attributed this admirable quality to the Jesuit education Mills received at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
Local developer Art Fichtenberg wrote about the time, back in the ‘80s, when the chamber was in financial difficulty and Mills turned it all around, guiding the chamber toward long term success. “Sonoma is a much better place,” said Fichtenberg, “because of Irv Mills.”
Mayor Sanders presented a second proclamation to Dave Pier, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club Valley of the Moon, proclaiming April to be Child Abuse Prevention Month and acknowledging the fine work that the Boys and Girls Club continues to do.