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Mesa Vice Mayor, Fire Chief Named Among Nation's 250 Public Service Champions

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~ On Monday, March 16, the National Academy of Public Administration and LocalGov250 announced the selection of Mesa Vice Mayor Scott Somers and Fire and Medical Department Chief Mary Cameli as two of America's 250 Public Service Champions. This initiative aims to recognize outstanding local government leaders as the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Both Somers and Cameli were nominated by their peers in public administration and chosen from hundreds of submissions representing all 50 states and Washington, D.C. LocalGov250 was formed to highlight the crucial role of local government in the semiquincentennial, acknowledging cities, counties, and towns as centers of democracy and civic engagement.

Somers, who represents District 6 in southeast Mesa, is currently serving his third term on the City Council. He previously served two terms from 2006 to 2015 and is actively involved in various local, state, and national boards. He also chairs Mesa's America 250 committee and the council's Public Safety committee.

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Expressing his gratitude for being named one of America's 250 Public Service Champions, Somers stated that service to others has been a defining aspect of his professional life. From serving in the Air Force to a career in the fire service to his current role on the Mesa City Council, he believes that strong communities are not built by accident but by individuals who choose to serve something greater than themselves.

Cameli joined the Mesa Fire and Medical Department in 1983 as one of its first female hires. She has risen through every rank before becoming Chief in 2016. Under her leadership, the department has expanded its medical and social services programs while also achieving nationally recognized accreditation standards. Cameli also serves as chair of the International Fire Service Training Association Board, a board member of the International Center for Public Safety Excellence, and is a past president of the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association.

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Expressing her gratitude for the honor, Cameli stated that she is proud to be recognized alongside other dedicated public servants who work tirelessly to strengthen their communities. She also acknowledged the privilege of spending her career in a profession built on service, trust, and teamwork. Cameli believes that this recognition reflects the extraordinary individuals of Mesa Fire & Medical who answer the call every day with skill, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to their community.

The 250 Champions will be honored at an event preceding the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) National Conference in Philadelphia on May 12. More information about this initiative can be found at localgov250.org. As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, it is important to recognize and honor leaders like Somers and Cameli who have dedicated their lives to serving their communities and upholding the values of democracy and civic engagement.

Filed Under: Government, City

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