McGlynn, currently the state's longest-serving mayor, chose the post-Thanksgiving weekend to deliver his final State of the City address, and to thank residents who elected him to 14 straight terms.

The second-generation mayor held hands with his wife, Sheila, as he walked into a crowded City Council chamber festooned with red-white-and-blue bunting and a community band playing a Sousa march.

MEDFORD — Mayor Michael J. McGlynn bid farewell on Sunday to the city he has led for 28 years, in a ceremony steeped in pomp, patriotism, and hometown pride.

"My experience has been earned because of the commitment and support you have shown toward my tenure in public office," said McGlynn, 62, standing at a podium, a giant American flag hanging behind him. "For this, Sheila and I are truly grateful. Your friendship and guidance shall never be forgotten."


McGlynn, a former Democratic state representative, announced in April he would not seek reelection to a 15th term. He plans to retire, and spend more time with his three grown daughters and five grandchildren, who sat in the front row.

Stephanie Muccini Burke, the city's budget director, and a former 16-year city councilor, was elected on Nov. 3 to succeed McGlynn.

During his nearly three decades in office, McGlynn held leadership roles in the Massachusetts Municipal Association, serving as a past-president and most recently as co-chair of a task force to study the impact of the state's opioid crisis on local communities.

And his final public speech drew several local and state officials, including Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan.

McGlynn devoted much of his 15-minute talk to the economic growth and educational goals achieved during his tenure. He also praised city workers and his staff who helped him achieve his vision to transform Medford from a tired old city to a vibrant urban center.


River's Edge, a housing/office development on the Malden River, and Station Landing, a mix of luxury apartments, shops, and restaurants on the Mystic River, ushered in a new era of growth in the last two decades.

"We created jobs, housing opportunities, and increased tax revenues dramatically," McGlynn said.

He noted the construction of eight new schools, including one named for his father, John J. McGlynn, 93, a former city councilor who was mayor when it was a ceremonial title given to the top vote-getter in the seven-member City Council race.

Medford High and the city's vocational school have level one status on the state's MCAS exams, he said.

"That's the highest rating attainable," said McGlynn, who as mayor, also serves as chairman of the Medford School Committee.

Residents who attended the talk, and a farewell reception that followed, expressed pride in his long tenure.

"He is a part of Medford history," said Elaine Bordonaro, 63. "I came to show my respect and gratitude. He's a compassionate man, who always helped people."

"He's an honest man," said Jerry Bailey, 74, an immigrant from Ireland who raised his family in Medford. "He deserves a happy retirement."

Kathy McCabe can be reached at Katherine.McCabe@globe.com. Follow her on Twitter @GlobeKMcCabe.