Pictured, from left, are Bemus Point Deputy Mayor Ted Farnham, former Mayor Bryan Dahlberg, Trustee Margaret Richardson, Mayor Jeff Molnar, and trustees Maureen Stahley and David Chertoff. Richardson, who recently retired, was recognized for her 19 years on the Village Board. Submitted photo

BEMUS POINT — Margaret Richardson doesn’t have to look far to see the progress that’s been made in the village over the past two decades.

“If you see a past photo looking down Main Street and what it is today, you just see the transformation,” said Richardson, a lifelong Bemus Point resident who just recently retired after serving 19 years on the Village Board.

Richardson was part of a strategic plan and beautification project that has provided visual upgrades and enhancements throughout the village. Most recently, banners featuring local veterans have been installed as well as flower boxes near the lake.

Because of her work on special projects, Richardson often attended many events within Bemus Point.

“I’m just so proud of where things have gone and how beautiful things look,” she said.

Richardson said she’s enjoyed serving the community with fellow members of the Village Board. She was first appointed a trustee 19 years ago by former Mayor Bryan Dahlberg, a longtime member himself who retired in December 2022 after putting in 30 years.

Dahlberg was present when trustees recognized Richardson at their February meeting.

“The whole board has been absolutely spectacular,” she said. “There’s been some change since Bryan left, but I spent most of the time working with him. Overall, it was fantastic and I really enjoyed it.”

Since Dahlberg’s retirement, Richardson had worked alongside current Mayor Jeff Molnar.

“She’s just been an integral part of our process to make decisions on behalf of the community,” Molnar said. “She grew up in the community and knows a lot about the history. She’s been a tremendous asset to the village.”

Richardson was presented with a plaque and proclamation during the board’s recent meeting. In part, the proclamation states, “Margaret Richardson has served her community as a dedicated and valued member of the Village Board of Trustees from January 2005 through January 2024. We recognize that she is an outstanding citizen, worthy of the esteem of the Village of Bemus Point.”

Richardson said she plans to volunteer her time with the village and will remain committed to the community.

With her retirement, the Bemus Point Village Board recently welcomed David Chertoff as a new trustee.