Governor Jack Markell awarded outgoing Wilmington Mayor James Baker with the Order of the First State Friday morning.
Baker was the first-ever three-term mayor of Delaware's largest city and previously headed Wilmington City Council as the body’s first African-American president.
Markell says Baker's work leaves a solid foundation for the newly elected Dennis Williams and joked about his notoriously blunt personality.
“Chris Christie might even be able to learn something about Mayor Baker about being straightforward and I think a lot of that is needed these days. I think you tell it like it is. I think you’ve been a very strong proponent and a strong leader for the city,” said Markell.
He notes that Baker's personality instilled confidence in his constituents, which allowed Baker to move forward with his vision for Wilmington.
Wilmington Police chief Michael Szczerba will depart with Baker next week. He says moments like Friday's ceremony are uniquely Delaware.
"I think it says a lot about our great state where a governor can take the time to support and go to a surprise party [for an outgoing mayor]," said Szczerba. "You two as leaders never interfered. You were always there to support [the police department]."
Baker's term ends Tuesday when Williams is sworn in as Wilmington's new mayor.
