WATERTOWN, N.Y. -- "A better Watertown" is what Mayor Jeff Graham wants for a city he's overseen for 20 years. He hopes he's been a big part in making that happen.
"The policies and projects that we endeavor to do the last twenty years or so hopfully will have a positive impact in the years to come for future generations," Graham said.
Graham was first elected mayor in 1991. He served from 1992 to 1999, and again from 2004 to this year. He's been happy to work in what he calls the "capital of the North Country."
"That's always been one of my goals, that we be a hub for culture and medicine and commerce and government, but it still has something of a small-town appeal," he said.
As Graham finishes his last few weeks as mayor, he prepares to pass the torch to new mayor elect, council member Joe Butler Jr.
"It's been a pleasure to serve with you," Butler said to Graham, "and I wish you all the best with your future endeavors and as Mayor-elect, I always welcome you back to City Hall and the office that you've held for 20 years. God Bless, good luck, and thank you for your service."
Starting next year, Graham says he'll focus on his radio talk show and running his bar, the Pearl Street Pub. He says he also plans to continue running his blog, "Mayor Graham's View." He'll also still keep up with what's going on at City Hall.
"You're still a part of Watertown," he said. "I'll still be following events and still be involved on things."