Ex-mayor Piccolo plans to include focusing more on auto business

By STEVE CHRISTENSEN
Contributing Writer

    The face of Price City has changed.
    After six successful campaigns, Joe Piccolo was defeated in last year’s election for mayor. For the first time in 22 years the city council will convene without him.
    The 22 years include 16 years as mayor and six years as a member of the city council.
    Joe watched over Price City during bountiful times and lean times, but in 16 years the city was never in financial deficit and no taxes were increased. Joe is proud of that. In a letter of farewell to the employees of the city Joe quoted Henry Ford, “If you think you can or you think you can’t, you are right.”
    Joe always believed he could and he believed the city could. Joe gives credit to his wife, Barbara Ann, who has stood at his side at every election and every function for 22 years.
    To the employees  Joe said, “It is sufficient to say that for 22 years I have fought for your rights, pay, and working conditions. For 16 years we have managed projects together to make Price City a better place to live, work, and play. We have done this without increased taxes, without terminations to clear departments, and with an utter respect and consideration for each other the entire time.”
    Joe served on many boards during his time as mayor and received numerous awards. Perhaps the one he is most proud of is the Henry B. Gonzalez Award. This is given in honor of Gonzalez, who served in the U.S. House of Representatives for 38 years.     
    The award is given for efforts to eliminate homelessness. Joe was the first person outside the U.S. Congress to receive the award. He was recognized for finding homes for 51 people who otherwise would have been on the street.
    During his time with the city Joe has always maintained a thriving auto repair business. He owns Supreme Complete Car Care. Along with Tunex, his businesses make up the Piccolo Car Care Plaza, which will now receive his attention.
    Joe says his priority will be to make sure the businesses are in good financial shape and have capable employees before he turns the keys over to someone else. As we sit across the counter having a conversation, Joe says,         “It’s time to spend some time here.” He is reflective as he says it, a tear forming in the corner of his eye.