January 23, 2007 > Newark welcomes new faces Newark welcomes new faces By Steve Warga The Newark City Council convened their first meeting of the New Year on Thursday, January 11. Mayor Dave Smith introduced one new employee and announced two promotions from within. The new face, Nick Icasiano, hails from Hayward and has had his eye on a Newark city post for some time now. He comes on board as an Equipment Mechanic I and looks forward to joining the famously friendly staff. When Assistant City Manager Jim Reese retired, city officials turned to Public Works Director Dennis Jones to replace him. Jones came over from the City of Fremont in 1996. After introduction, Jones took his place next to City Manager John Becker. Then, to fill Jones prior position, Smith introduced Peggy Claasen who was Assistant City Engineer for the past two years. She too transferred from a City of Fremont position. After completing a brief agenda of routine business, the mayor devoted a few minutes of praise for James Balentine, Newark's first mayor, and Smith's immediate predecessor. Balentine passed away recently after a brief battle against lung cancer. Smith described Balentine as a gruff-spoken, warm-hearted, visionary leader who helped in many ways making Newark what it is today. Council's next meeting is January 25 at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall, sixth floor. Smith adjourned the meeting in memory of The Honorable James Balentine.