At its final meeting of 2023, the Lynn City Council honored three departing members.

Ward 1 Councilor Wayne Lozzi, Ward 2 Councilor Rick Starbard, and Ward 4 Councilor Rich Colucci were recognized for their service to the city. None of the three men sought re-election this year.

“I will always remember the issues we worked on together: Councilor Lozzi’s passion for the environment, Councilor Starbard’s drive for small businesses and entrepreneurship and economic development, Councilor Colucci’s tireless effort to keep his ward spotless,” Mayor Jared Nicholson said. “We’ll carry that work on.”

Colucci served as Ward 4 councilor from 1990 to 1995 and again from 1998 to 2023. He steps away as the longest-serving councilor in Lynn’s history, according to Council President Jay Walsh.

Nicholson recalled a story about when his brother first came to Lynn and did not know anyone.

“It was Councilor Colucci who went over and introduced himself and made him feel welcome. Councilor Colucci has been doing that for decades, and he’ll continue to do that,” Nicholson said.

Colucci offered the council a word of advice.

“When in doubt, do the right thing,” he said.

Lozzi has served as Ward 1 councilor since 2004.

“If you’re looking for advice, Wayne was always the one to offer it,” Walsh said.

Nicholson offered a personal memory of Lozzi.

“Councilor Lozzi is one of the most excited people I’ve ever met to learn about a new baby coming into someone’s family, even if it’s not his family,” Nicholson said.

Lozzi said that he always appreciated serving as Ward 1’s councilor.

“We’ve always heard it’s an honor and a privilege, and it truly has been to serve as a councilor for the City of Lynn,” Lozzi said.

Starbard was first elected to the Ward 2 seat in 2016.

“He’s always been a person who’s been really giving to the community,” Walsh said. “Any time there’s an event or something going on, Rick, his business, and his family have given a lot to the community.”

“You were so generous with your time and advice and thoughts,” Nicholson told Starbard.

Starbard said that a lot of work was packed into his six years on the council. He recalled how the city handled the COVID-19 pandemic.

“How this council rose to the challenge in the toughest, most uncertain times,” he said. “I think that’s a testament to this body, to our residents that know when times are tough, you will be there to step up.”

Before adjourning for the year, the council called for a moment of silence to honor late Council Vice President Gordon “Buzzy” Barton, who died in April.