Mayor Mlada Aims to Inspire Love for All Things Local

Almost two months after taking office, Port Washington Mayor Tom Mlada said he continues to learn more about the city and its residents — falling deeper in love with the place he calls home.

"I thought I knew just how blessed we were as a city, but since beginning my service as mayor in April that's become even more abundantly clear to me," Mlada said in an e-mail. "Each day, I seem to meet new people looking to get involved, make a difference, and give back in an effort to make our city even better. That, to me, is an asset that is invaluable — it is one thing to have financial resources, but it is another to have people willing to step forward and serve selflessly."

Mlada lives in Port with his wife and three daughters, and has called the city home for the past 13 years. For Mlada, his new role is more than just leadership — he puts a lot of emphasis on involvement, both from him and the city's residents.

"I am inspired most when I believe that I can be impactful in serving and partnering with others through my time and talents," he said. "I really believe we all charged with being bridge-builders; while we all walk this Earth but once,  we must do what we can to make it and leave it a better place for those who follow.

"There are a multitude of ways in which others can get involved and make a difference for our great city. And, the great thing in my mind is that you can find ways that involve a minimal amount of time and money to give back to our community," he said.

Mlada suggested a number of ways to get involved, including: volunteering with the , joining or purchasing a plot at the .

Also important is putting an emphasis on supporting local, Mlada said.

"Invest in our local economy first by investing dollars in local businesses first," he said. "Serve on a committee or board, whether at the city level or with a local charity, that interests you or on behalf of a cause that moves you."

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But even though Mlada is now the leader of the city, aiming to inspire a better Port and an engaged community, he said being a leader to his family remains his most shining accomplishment.

"I'm proudest of the way I serve in my role as "dad" to my kids. Ultimately, no matter what I help accomplish as Mayor, I know I will be measured by the man I am, and for me that means chiefly being husband to a beautiful woman and father to my amazing children," he said. "They are truly life's greatest blessings, and while I'm not a perfect parent — I believe they know I feel that way about them. I hope my most lasting legacy will be that of a proud, accomplished parent."