POST FALLS — Post Falls Mayor Clay Larkin was released from Kootenai Health this morning after undergoing a successful surgery on Monday night.

Alison McArthur, Larkin's daughter, said her father had his pacemaker removed and a defibrillator unit was added.

"The pacemaker he had put in last year was doing OK, but the defibrillator needed to be there to stimulate his heart more," McArthur said. 

She said Larkin was in good spirits this morning.

"He's smiling, laughing and feels good," she said.

McArthur said Larkin plans to recover at home the rest of this week and return to his mayoral duties next week sometime.

Mayor-elect and current city council member Ron Jacobson will fill in for Larkin at tonight's council meeting.

Larkin, 77, decided to not seek re-election in November, citing health issues and it's time to retire. He ad a second triple bypass surgery eight years ago.

Larkin has been Post Falls' mayor for 13 years, longer than any of the city's previous 35 mayors. Prior to becoming mayor, Larkin served five years on the city council.

Jacobson, endorsed by Larkin in the election, will take over as the new mayor in January.

The public is invited to a retirement party for Larkin on Jan. 9 from 5-7 p.m. at the Post Falls Senior Center, 1215 E. Third Ave. There will be refreshments, a no-host bar and a special presentation at 6 p.m.