East Hampton Village Mayor Paul F. Rickenbach Jr. is now former Mayor Rickenbach after stepping down on Dec. 20, closing out 27 years in the post. Mr. Rickenbach first began service when he joined the village Police Department in 1958. He became a village trustee in 1988. He has seen the village in times of boom and bust and ably oversaw and balanced the desires of residents first and foremost with summer visitors and businesses. This has been no simple task, but Mayor Rickenbach handled it with aplomb, and with the continued support of the community.
The accolades were many at his last village board meeting. Words like “steadfast,” “loyal,” “incredible,” “leadership,” “dignity,” and “service” were offered in his praise from colleagues and community leaders. These were well earned and well deserved. During his time as mayor, the village has proven a leader in many ways, including in preserving historical sites and protecting the environment.
Mayor Rickenbach will be missed. His shoes will be very hard to fill.