Mayor Robert Smart is marking one year since stepping into the role of mayor for the Town of Sibley, following the death of longtime Mayor Jimmy Williams in January 2024. After completing the remainder of Williams’ term, Smart was elected unopposed to serve his first full term later that year.
“The new council and I are determined to carry on the vision that Jimmy had for Sibley,” Smart said. “We have struggled but I think we can be proud of where we are.”
Smart served as an alderman in Sibley for 25 years prior to becoming mayor. He said the shift into his new role has come with challenges — especially the around-the-clock nature of the job.
“The biggest adjustment in the transition between alderman and mayor is the continuous thought process,” he said. “Fishing isn’t just fishing anymore, it’s ‘Where are we going to get funding for this project.’ Or at 3AM when your eyes pop open with ‘I need to contact Representative McMahen about…’”
He added that the role requires constant research, learning, and an understanding of legal and financial boundaries, including how to properly balance the town’s budget.
As for his administration’s priorities, Smart said he is focused on completing unfinished work from the previous mayor’s term, improving infrastructure, and maintaining the town’s appearance.
“My goals are to complete the projects that Mayor Williams started and was unable to complete,” he said. “To clean and maintain Sibley’s appearance for our citizens and those passing through. To provide safe and clean water to our customers.”
Several of those projects are already underway. Contracts have been signed for a street project affecting Weatherton Street, NE 5th Avenue, and Jones Street. The town is also nearing completion of its water system consolidation with Saltworks, which includes a new sand filter and an additional well to improve water quality.
Additionally, Sibley recently received state funding for water infrastructure upgrades, sewer improvements, and parks and recreation.
Another milestone on the horizon: Sibley will host the Small Town Mayors Conference in September for the first time. The event will bring municipal leaders from across the state to share ideas and solutions for small-town governance.
Smart attributes Sibley’s strength to its people and core values.
“Sibley stands out because our citizens and officials have pride in our town,” he said. “We have some old-fashioned, small-town values, a good school, minimal crime, and a strong sense of community.”
For those considering entering public service, Smart advised being prepared for a meaningful commitment.
“My advice to someone wanting to be involved in public service would [be] to be willing to dedicate time and thought if you plan to make a difference,” he said.