MOUNT VERNON — Mount Vernon council members said goodbye to council members Janis Seavolt and Tammy Woods on Monday.
Seavolt capped a 14-year tenure representing Mount Vernon residents as an at-large council member.
Woods began her council service on Jan. 1, 2020, representing the city’s 3rd Ward.
Mayor Matt Starr read a proclamation recognizing the women’s service. He also presented them with a flag that previously flew over the city.
“Thank you all for enriching my life.”
Outgoing council member janis seavolt
The proclamations commended the women for representing citizens with integrity, diligence, and a strong commitment to public service.
They provided leadership and guidance, and, through “thoughtful deliberation, collaboration with fellow council members and city staff, and respect for diverse viewpoints,” worked to advance policies and initiatives that strengthened the quality of life for all residents.
Starr said the councilwomen “demonstrated a deep dedication to the principles of local government and civic responsibility, leaving a lasting and positive impact on the city of Mount Vernon and its citizens.”
The greatest privilege of all
Seavolt began her tenure on Jan. 1, 2012, but said it does not seem possible.
“It just seems like the other day. I thoroughly enjoyed it, mainly because it’s such wonderful people that I’ve gotten to serve with. I respect every one of them,” she said.
“Everyone that’s been on [council] and has gone off, I felt it has been a privilege to get to know each of you.”
Seavolt said that while she did not like seeing council members depart, it has been wonderful getting to know the new members and seeing what they bring to the table.
Noting that she served with Starr and Safety-Service Director Tanner Salyers when they were council members, Seavolt said, “It’s been fun watching the progress of everybody and seeing everybody grow.”
“I’m going to miss it, and the citizens have been wonderful. It’s the greatest privilege of all being able to represent them, to listen to them, and to be able to carry out and try to do what they want,” she said.
Seavolt said it is humbling to have people vote for her.
“I always was afraid that when I would run, I’d get two votes, my husband’s and mine. I was always worried about it, but it’s been really a pleasure. Thank you all for enriching my life,” she said.
Exciting things are coming
Woods said a small group of people came to her seven years ago and asked her to consider running for city council.
She thanked her husband for his support during the ensuing seven years.
“There’s been a lot of turnover up here on this dais. That’s not always a bad thing,” Woods said. “I’m encouraged by the number of people who’ve wanted to get involved.”
Woods told incoming council members Taylor Jacklin and Dale Miller they have “done a great thing.”
“You will learn a ton about this city. You will hear a lot of complaining, you will hear a lot of thank yous, but you will learn a lot. I do not regret this for one second,” she said.
“I sat out there for a whole year watching what happened in this room before I even ran, so I can honestly say I’ve sat here for seven years. There’s a lot of good things happening in this city.”
She encouraged more people to get involved, listen to the meetings, and learn about the city because it is exciting.
“There are some exciting things coming, and please, please get involved,” she said.
