Ariel Goodwin sworn in as North Plains mayor and pledges transparency and community engagement

Ariel Goodwin was sworn in as mayor of North Plains on Jan. 6, 2025, at the Jessie Mays Community Center, accompanied by the swearing-in of several newly elected councilors. Goodwin read a prepared statement pledging to prioritize urgent issues, increase transparency and seek community-guided decisions as the new council begins its term.

"I'm looking forward to partnering with an amazing team," Goodwin said, asking residents for patience as the council balances transparency with the need to hold candid internal conversations while setting priorities. She said the council would "prioritize what's most urgent, increase transparency and start improving processes," and asked residents to continue offering constructive input.

Outgoing Mayor Teri Lenahan offered a prepared farewell, reflecting on 16 years of combined service on the council and as mayor, thanking staff and community volunteers and encouraging collaboration between incoming and outgoing officials. "It has been a pleasure and an honor to serve this community," Lenahan said, and she urged continued civic participation.

City officials present included City Manager Bill Reid, City Recorder Lori Lesmeister and other department heads; Reid offered to set work sessions to orient new council members on city operations and the budget, and the council expressed interest in holding an all-day workshop for goal-setting.

The swearing-in and opening remarks concluded with the meeting proceeding to council business, nominations for council president, public comment and committee appointments.