Suffolk’s political scene underwent change in 2004, resulting in the appointment of Bobby L. Ralph as mayor, ending Councilman E. Dana Dicken III’s stint at the helm.

Suffolk City Council Chambers were filled to capacity on July 1 with officials and citizens anxiously awaiting the outcome of the mayoral contest.

Ralph’s win over Dickens was met with surprise, and overwhelmingly positive sentiments.

&uot;I didn’t know what to expect,&uot; commented Andrew B. Damiani, a former Suffolk mayor who spent 21 years on council. As for the transition from Dickens to Ralph as mayor, &uot;I believe the change will work ok. I am very confident.&uot;

Dr. George Barnett, also a former mayor, had a positive outlook, considering the overall makeup of council.

&uot;We have a very outstanding council,&uot; said Barnett. &uot;We have an excellent new mayor. I had heard rumors of the possibility (that Ralph would take Dickens’ seat).&uot;

luefras.robinson@suffolknewsherald.com