ROCKLAND — Following a swearing-in for returning councilors-elect to Rockland City Council, November 17, 2025, the five returning councilors voted among themselves for the 2025-26 mayoral position.

Rockland’s new mayor, Councilor Adam Lachman, received three votes, while two votes went to Councilor Nathan Davis.

While acknowledging that the role is mostly ceremonial, Lachman said he is deeply honored by the confidence and trust that his colleagues have placed in him through this vote.

“Serving as Mayor of Rockland is a responsibility I take with humility, gratitude and a strong sense of purpose,” he said.

Lachman recognized the contributions of the mayors and councilors that came before. They each brought ideas, dedication, and commitment to Rockland, he said. For himself, Lachman said his priorities remain clear.

“We must confront the rising pressures and burden on working families, and individuals young and old,” he said. “Affordability, whether housing, taxes, or cost of living must remain at the center of our agenda. That commitment must go hand in hand with strong fiscal responsibility: making sure we use taxpayer dollars wisely, and being transparent in how we budget. We also need to continue identifying opportunities for new revenue and sustainable economic growth so that Rockland can meet its needs without placing additional burdens on our residents.”

Per the City Charter, the role of mayor carries no greater authority than any other councilor.

“I am committed to helping us function as a balanced, and effective team,” he said. “None of us is smarter than all of us. And the strength of Council lies in our ability to work together, challenge each other respectively and combine our perspectives for the good of Rockland.”

A goal is to keep the city vibrant and accessible for generations to come. Equally important, according to Lachman, is strengthening how city residents engage in local government.

“A passion of mine – I think a passion of everyone in this body – a city thrives when everyone feels welcomed into this process. When they can easily participate, when our meetings run smoothly, when our committees have the support they need, and when information flows opening and clearly.”

Important strides have taken place during Lachman’s previous term on Council, according to him, through Council procedures and an updated City website.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues to lower the barriers to participation, and ensure that our decision making reflects the full diversity of voices in our city.

Lachman acknowledged the relationship and partnership with the City Manager, Tom Luttrell, as well as the professionalism of the City staff. Their dedication keeps Rockland moving, he said.

Lachman also acknowledged and expressed deep gratitude to Rockland residents. By voting for Lachman and Councilor Penelope York to serve another term, the residents indicated a trust in those councilors, according to Lachman.

Prior to the Council’s vote for the next mayor, York said, “It has been an honor in every sense of the word. To represent the city I love so deeply, and the people I care for so much, has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.”

York, in her speech as outgoing mayor, gave one small bit of advice: Trust in the City staff, and resist the urge to micromanage them.

From the beginning, she worked to make Council meetings more approachable, more courteous, and more welcoming, restoring a sense of civility to our proceedings, and breaking down barriers for anyone who might feel intimidated by walking into City Hall.

“My hope is that this spirit continues forward, because accessible and respectful government strengthens every part of this community,” she said. “I am truly excited about the work ahead for Rockland. We are a city full of potential, momentum, and big heart. I have every confidence that this next mayor will do an excellent job carrying that work forward.”

Reach Sarah Thompson at news@penbaypilot.com