Just over two years ago, "Anne McCaffrey, Lockport resident" became "Anne McCaffrey, alderwoman." About a year ago, "Anne McCaffrey, alderwoman" became "Anne McCaffrey, council president." And over the course of the last three days, she's become "Anne McCaffrey, interim mayor," and finally "Anne McCaffrey, mayor" on Monday.

That quick ascension up the political ladder could be unnerving for some, but McCaffrey shows no signs of apprehension over taking City Hall's top spot. One of her first acts Monday upon being officially sworn into office was to appoint a successor to herself as council president.

FILE PHOTO BY HEATHER N. GRIMMER - Joe Kibler is sworn in for another term as alderman at large on Jan. 6. Monday he was named council president by newly sworn in mayor Anne McCaffrey.

“I believe that Joe Kibler’s experience, character and his ability to bring people together makes him uniquely qualified to lead the Common Council during this critical period in our city’s history," McCaffrey said in a written statement Monday, adding that she looks forward to working with Kibler in "setting an action agenda which tackles the difficult financial matters facing our city, implementing much needed reforms and continuing crucial economic and tourism development projects in our community.”

McCaffrey has another appointment to make still — that of 2nd Ward alderman. Her as-yet-unnamed successor in her spot at 2nd Ward alderwoman will serve the remainder of 2014.

McCaffrey's swearing in Monday morning means she will be mayor until the end of 2015. While it isn't necessary, a ceremonial swearing in will be held on March 5 during the Common Council session.

---

Don't miss any updates from East Niagara Post.
Add us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.