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Columbiana council honors late councilwoman Karen Lilly as seat declared vacant
Summary
Council members opened a somber meeting with prayers and extended tributes to the late Councilwoman Karen Lilly, recalling her work as an educator, mentor and Ward 1 representative; the council declared her seat vacant and shared plans to carry forward her legacy.
Mayor (S3) opened the Columbiana City Council meeting with a remembrance of Karen Lilly, whom the mayor described as “more than a member of our city council” and a longtime servant to the community. The mayor said Lilly’s work as a Ward 1 councilwoman and at Columbiana Middle School left “young people in this community walking a better path today.”
Council members and staff followed with personal memories. Council member (S6) said he would “really miss serving with Miss Lily” and praised her strong faith and personality. City administrative staff (S5) recalled Lilly’s habit of praying with colleagues and checking in on others, saying “she wore her faith with her wherever she went.” Council member (S1) and others emphasized Lilly’s consistency, intentional service and mentorship of children.
The mayor noted that the council formally declared Lilly’s seat vacant, saying her “legacy never will be” vacated even if the seat is filled later. No administrative action to fill the vacancy was announced at the meeting.
The meeting proceeded to regular business after the tributes. The council planned to continue handling agenda items while honoring Lilly’s contributions in future events.
