Sun Hwang named Mattawa mayor pro tem

MATTAWA — The Mattawa City Council chose a new mayor pro tem, Sun Hwang, during its regular, online meeting Dec. 3.

The position of mayor pro tem was held by Councilman Brian Berghout since former mayor Scott Hyndman became the mayor of Mattawa.

“I have been mayor pro tem for a while,” Berghout said. “I think it is best that I step down and let another individual do it.”

Two different council members were nominated for the position -- Alex Heredia and Hwang. Heredia was nominated by Berghout, while Hwang was nominated by council members Tony Acosta, Wendy Lopez and Silvia Barajas.

“I think it is a good idea for Sun to be nominated,” Barajas said. “He is a good councilman, a business owner and he works well with you (Mayor Maggie Celaya). He brings good ideas to the table.”

Hwang responded to the nominations by saying that he would be honored to be given the mayor pro tem position.

“This is a hard time for changing anything,” Hwang said. “I was hoping that the transition (to a new mayor) would be smooth. I’m honored to take the pro tem position. Thank you.”

When put to a vote, Hwang was voted the position with Berghout opposed.

Hwang is a business owner in Mattawa and currently owns a trailer park and apartments. He has been on the Mattawa City Council for almost five years.