Salisbury City Council loses nearly four decades of experience as Mayor Paul Woodson and Councilman Pete Kennedy step down this week. Instead of seeking re-election, Woodson and Kennedy decided independently of each other that it was time to let others lead, and both leave office with solid records.

Kennedy was elected to an historic 10th term in 2013, a record he acknowledged at the time. “But it’s not about history, it’s about servant leadership,” Kennedy said. In his lowkey style, he worked to increase the diversity of city boards and commissions. Kennedy was the only African-American member during his 20 years on the council, but he advocated for all. On the financial side of governing, Kennedy has been conservative and business-minded, usually one of the first to voice opposition to tax increases and fee hikes.

Woodson, mayor now for four years, has served on the council almost as long as Kennedy — 18 years. As the owner-operator of a dry-cleaning business, Woodson brought to the council firsthand experience at making payroll, dealing with employment issues and coping with regulations.

Woodson followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, Walter H. Woodson, when he became mayor in 2011. He immediately realized how different the job was. “When you’re the mayor,” Woodson once said, “it’s almost like you’re chairman of the board of a $75 million operation.” And he often dealt with dissatisfied shareholders — citizens and business owners — who had their own ideas of how the city should be run.

With the exit of Kennedy and Woodson, a new generation of leadership will be in charge of Fibrant, the city’s broadband network. None of the remaining members were on board when the council voted to get into the broadband business in 2008. They don’t have to defend the decision; they just have to make Fibrant prosper and grow.

Top vote-getter Karen Alexander will likely be named mayor by the rest of the council. Ken Hardin and David Post will join as new members, serving with returning members Maggie Blackwell and Brian Miller. Before this new council moves forward, take a moment to remember the dedicated, loyal service of Pete Kennedy and Paul Woodson.