‘The best city around’: Knapp, Sapp & Rehfeldt reflect on years of service in Ontario

ONTARIO — Mayor Kris Knapp, Councilman Troy Sapp and Councilman Dave Rehfeldt bid adieu at Wednesday night’s Ontario City Council meeting.

It marked the end of an era, as this was the trio’s final meeting in office.

Knapp thanked his fellow council members, city staff and the community for their support throughout his role as mayor.

“I hope I have made the city better than when I started for all of you,” Knapp said.

Knapp said his wife, Shelly, encouraged him to reflect on his accomplishments by looking through his camera roll.

“I even looked back at my first speech to council, which was the State of the City,” he said. “I’m happy to say I was able to accomplish everything in that speech.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Knapp noted the new and younger faces are set to join council, among them is a former student, mayor-elect Josh Bradley.

“Being a teacher, I taught students for 33 years and I learned a lot from those young students,” he said. “It’s a thrill for me to see a student come into a role, and as a teacher, you always leave it for the next.

“I knew I wouldn’t be mayor forever, but I tried to leave it better for the next.”

Addressing Bradley directly, Knapp offered his continued support, saying whether it’s a 10 p.m. phone call or a 6 a.m. text, he will always be available to help.

“As I stated on Aug. 1, 2024, I am humbled and grateful to serve the citizens of Ontario,” Knapp said.

Public comment highlights gratitude

During public comment, several residents expressed their gratitude to Knapp, Sapp and Rehfeldt for their years of service to the city.

Ontario Recreation Director and Ontario Youth Sports Director Kenn Spencer began by addressing Knapp’s family, who were in attendance.

“They’re world class — just good people,” Spencer said.

Turning to Sapp, Spencer acknowledged their time working together.

“Troy, I think you did a great job,” he said. “We worked through some really crazy things, and I can’t thank you enough.”

Spencer closed his remarks by praising Rehfeldt’s lasting impact.

“Every place Dave Rehfeldt has left, he’s left it better,” Spencer said. “And not by a little bit — by a lot.”

Gianna Gallo, daughter of Council President Eddie Gallo, also spoke during public comment, expressing her gratitude for Knapp and his role as mayor.

“I first knew Mr. Knapp not only as a teacher, but as a father of one of my classmates,” Gallo said.

She said she was excited when Knapp was elected, noting what people see is what they get. She described Knapp as authentic and genuine.

“No matter what, he did everything in his power to help our community and our town,” she said. “No disrespect to any other former mayors, but I don’t think that is something we have always seen.”

Rehfeldt and Sapp share appreciation for their time on Ontario City Council

“I’m really not gonna get into the three pages that I wrote,” Rehfeldt said. “The reality is I care more than probably anybody will ever know.”

Rehfeldt has been involved with non-profit organizations, community events and other civic efforts for 42 years. He said his focus has always been on moving the city forward.

“The reality of it is we are the best city in the area, and I don’t want to see us go backwards,” he said.

Rehfeldt thanked those who served alongside him, noting while he will miss the people, he will not miss the issues. However, he emphasized he will continue to pay attention to city matters.

“It’s the best city around, and the goal is to keep it that way,” Rehfeldt said.

He also addressed what he described as growing apathy in society, calling it one of his biggest frustrations. Rehfeldt said he was encouraged to see three candidates run for council in the most recent election.

“I’m really happy we had three people run for council,” he said.

Rehfeldt noted in the previous six elections, no one stepped forward to run, adding he hopes the recent interest is a sign things are beginning to change.

Sapp also thanked those he served with during his time on council.

“It’s been fun,” Sapp said. “And I’ve learned a lot.”

Sapp reflected on his service across multiple committees, saying he began on the utilities before moving to parks. He offered words of encouragement to Councilman-elect AJ Roll, who will take office in 2026.

“AJ, if you get parks — no pun intended — keep it rolling,” Sapp said.

Sapp also highlighted his close working relationship with Spencer, noting their collaboration on numerous projects.

“He’s open to any ideas you give, and if you have an idea, he makes it better,” Sapp said.

Feagin ends the remarks on an emotional note

Second Ward Councilwoman Rose Feagin thanked Knapp, Sapp and Rehfeldt, reflecting on their impact during her time on council.

Addressing Rehfeldt, Feagin spoke about how much she learned from him.

“Mr. Rehfeldt, I have never met anyone like you,” she said. “I have learned so much from you.”

She added it will be strange not seeing him at the council table.

“It’s just going to be odd looking over there and not seeing your face, whether you’re smiling or scowling,” she said.

Feagin also thanked Sapp for their time together on the parks committee.

“Mr. Sapp, it has been an honor serving on the parks committee with you,” she said.

Feagin noted she got to see a mischievous side to Sapp, not many people may know about. She reminisced moments spent “giggling like girls” over new things like geocaching.

“I just appreciate your leadership and everything you did for the parks committee,” Feagin said.

Feagin closed by addressing Knapp.

“I’m going to miss you so much, Kris,” she said.

She noted when she would come to him with questions and he would take the time to explain issues, sometimes through PowerPoint presentations.

“I appreciate the teacher in you,” Feagin said.