Mayor Joe Schember is not saying “goodbye” to the City of Erie, but “see you later.”

He addressed the public one last time at his final news conference Tuesday morning, and although Schember’s time as mayor is coming to an end, he said the work is just beginning.

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After eight years of serving the City of Erie, Mayor Joe Schember addressed the public one last time by choosing to honor longtime community leaders.

Schember passed out 18 keys to the city, which are given to those who have gone above and beyond, embodying an exemplary record of service, or having achieved a career distinction or accomplishment that benefits the city.

“They’re all really good performers and they produce good things for the City of Erie,” said Mayor Schember. “I’ll probably be on a high at least for the rest of the day today.”

Due to their commitment to the city and its residents, many individuals are well known in the community, such as Archbishop Dwane Brock for his work on the Eagle’s Nest, councilmen Ed Brzezinski for his over 20 years serving in public offices, and Roger Richards for his decades of work on civic projects.

One recipient, who was recognized for his many accomplishments, such as being co-chair for the Pre-K for PA campaign and helping establish Erie County Community College, reflected on this honor.

“It reminds us of all the things we try to do if we could and win, and makes some of those things happen. We couldn’t do it all, but we can do a lot, and so we were very happy about that,” said Ron Dinicola, a key to the city recipient.

Mayor Schember also honored five people from his Economic Development Loan Board, which included incoming Erie County Executive Christina Vogel.

Mayor Schember’s staff also presented him with special gifts as a thank you for the last eight years.

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“He has really led very selflessly,” said Renee Lamois, chief of staff for the City of Erie. “Always trying to be there for others, rarely saying no when people would ask him to be at things. He’s been open, honest, transparent and accessible.”

As for what’s next for the mayor, he said he wants to do something different but carry on serving the city.

“I want to continue doing things to make Erie better. Make Erie a better place for everyone to kind of eliminate some of the bad feelings that are out there,” said Schember.

A list of everyone who received a key to the city is as follows:

Pennsylvania State Representative Pat Harkins

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