Dave Allan's 12 years of public service as a member of the La Mesa City Council came to an end Tuesday, Dec. 11. The council held a small celebration and tribute to Allan, as he ceded his seat to the newly-elected councilmember Kristine Alessio.
La Mesa-Mount Helix Patch caught up with Allan after the meeting, and he was able to reflect on his time on the council.
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La Mesa Patch: You knew this day was coming for awhile. How are the emotions?
Dave Allan: “I feel really good to be honest with you. You know, it was never a job. It’s always about service. I’ve said it before, ever since I went into the army and the fire department and then this. I’m not going away. I put my application in for the parks foundation because that’s something that still needs to be done in La Mesa. But change is good sometimes, and I think Kristine [Alessio] is gonna be a great asset to the city. It’s time to move on.
Patch: Did you know they were going to do the photo slide and presentation at the council?
Allan: "No. I didn’t know that. They surprised me. Because usually, it would be 'Dave, do you wanna have a party?' I don’t want a party, you know. I don’t like to be in the limelight if I don’t have to. But it was very nice."
Patch: Looking back on your 12 years and the things that you and the council were able to accomplish, is there anything that stands out?
Allan: “Well, I think personally that just coming from a public safety background, getting the paramedic program started here in La Mesa. The three-city [fire service] consolidation is the way to go, not only from a financial standpoint, but for better service for constituents. We got the new fire and police station. You saw the video today, I mean it was kind of amazing. I’d forgotten about a lot of those things.”
"The Junior Seau Sports Complex was great, the Veterans Memorial, a lot of things that you really forget that you were involved in. But you know, it’s not just me, it’s the people, the commissions. I really think that’s what makes the city work. I do believe that the people really make the city. I’ve had the opportunity to represent them and maybe get the votes to get things done, but it’s the people’s city."
Patch: Is there one word or a phrase that really kind of encompasses your time on the council?
Allan: "It’s been an adventure. It’s been a great ride. Life’s good. I’m blessed."
