City honors legacy of trailblazer JP Wills

During a recent Stafford City Council meeting, community members expressed strong support for two prominent figures in local governance, Lawrence Vaccaro and Wayne Guerra. Damon Leonetti, a member of the Economic Development Council, emphasized the invaluable contributions of Vaccaro and Guerra, stating that the city needs them more than they need the city. Leonetti's remarks were echoed by fellow resident Lana Hosey, who criticized the appointment of a less experienced council member who she felt undermined the efforts of Vaccaro and Guerra.

The meeting also featured a significant proclamation honoring the late Joseph Paris \"JP\" Wills, a trailblazer in the community and the first African American council member and mayor pro tem of Stafford. Mayor Matthew presented a proclamation declaring June 26, 2024, as Joseph Paris JP Wills Day, recognizing Wills' extensive contributions to the city, including his service in the U.S. Navy and his involvement in local youth sports.

The council's discussions highlighted both the community's appreciation for dedicated public service and the ongoing challenges of governance in Stafford.