MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake City Council experienced a change in leadership with new councilmembers taking the Oath of Office.

Councilmember Bill Ecret was re-elected to another term and Dr. David Curnel and Karen Liebrecht begin their term in 2010.

Finance Director Ron Cone swore the trio in.

Councilmember James Liebrecht and Mayor Ron Covey said their goodbyes during their last council meeting.

“I’d like to thank everybody on city staff, city manager, fellow councilmen,” said James Liebrecht. “I’ve learned a lot these last four years. I really appreciate your patience. I just thank you for the time I have spent.”

Councilmember Richard Pearce presented James Liebrecht and Covey with plaques recognizing them for their service.

The audience applauded the men.

“I have just one comment to make before we close,” said Covey. “Council, I want to thank you for … allowing me to serve as your mayor for the last six years. It’s been an experience that I will never forget. Its been enjoyable for the most part. There’s been some trying times but that comes with any position of this kind.”

He thanked city staff, Police Chief Dean Mitchell and Fire Chief Tom Taylor for their assistance.

“I want to thank you for all of the support you’ve given me over the six years,” Covey continued. “Without that, I couldn’t have done what I have been able to do. Your help has been vital. I thank you very much for that.”

He also thanked Executive Secretary Maxine Ivory.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do without you, lady,” Covey said to Ivory. “You’ve been my right arm for all these years and I could call on you. You were always there. I just wanted to say thanks very much.”

He explained the 2009 city council was the best council he served with.

“We’ve made some tremendous strides over the years,” he said. “We were proactive. We continue to be proactive and I challenge you to continue along those same lines. Please continue with this stepping block that we have created so we can continue toward the goals we’ve all set forth; to make Moses Lake a better place to live. Having said that, I’m going to say merry Christmas, happy New Year and good night to all.”

Covey struck the gavel one final time as mayor, ending the meeting.

“I would like to say that ‘Big Daddy’ has changed the face of Moses Lake and I think we live here and enjoy him and his contribution,” Councilmember Dick Deane said about Covey. “We have really been the beneficiary. Thank you Big Daddy.”

Covey was given a standing applause and several people thanked Covey and James Liebrecht for their service to the community after the meeting.

The council will soon choose a new mayor from amongst themselves.