KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Monday, April 1, was Councilmember Steve Hart's last day as an elected official for the city council.

The city staff had a surprise – and it wasn't an April Fool's joke. It was a genuine, emotional token of appreciation.

Hart was presented with a plaque commemorating his decade of public service. Each member of the city council said Hart would be missed. 

Hart served as vice mayor when Councilmember Tony Brown was mayor. When Brown was out sick and seeking treatment, Hart often stepped up. 

"To say it has been a pleasure to work with you would be an understatement," City attorney Rich Komando said. 

Hart was described as someone who put the needs of the community front and center. Komando said that out of all the city council members or legislatures he worked with, Hart was unique. 

"You did something I had never seen before. You introduced legislation on the city council, talked with community members, heard that they were opposed, and then came back to the next city council meeting to vote against your own legislation," Komando said. 

"It happens," Hart said. 

One of Hart's cornerstone achievements was founding the Keystone Heights Heritage Commission, which Mayor Nina Rodenroth previously served on. 

"I had a good group of people to work with," Hart said.

"It's good to serve with dedicated people."