POST FALLS - For the first time in 13 years, Post Falls has a new mayor.

Ron Jacobson, who has served on the city council for the past 14 years, was sworn in Tuesday night as Post Falls' 37th mayor.

But most of the city council meeting attended by about 75 was dedicated to Larkin, who was choked-up throughout, giving thanks to city staff and community groups and receiving a lot of it himself.

"It has been a wonderful journey," Larkin said before handing off the gavel to Jacobson. "You have touched my life."

Larkin, 77, served longer than any of Post Falls' previous mayors at 13 years. He served on the city council for five years before becoming mayor.

With Larkin's decision to not run for re-election came his endorsement of Jacobson to replace him as mayor.

"Good things are just starting to roll," Larkin said, adding that he's leaving the city in good hands with an excellent staff and council.

Also sworn in were Alan Wolfe, who takes over council seat No. 2 formerly held by Jacobson, Betty Ann Henderson, who was re-elected to seat No. 4, and Linda Wilhelm, who retained her No. 6 seat.

Wilhelm was unanimously elected council president.

After Larkin stepped down from the mayor's seat, he received a standing ovation and was thanked by several local groups and officials for his service. A photo slideshow of Larkin over the years at the city was shown on the two big screens in the council chambers during the presentations.

His efforts drew praise and special honors from military groups, the city of Rathdrum, Post Falls Police Department, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, Boys and Girls Club, the chamber of commerce, Jobs Plus and Post Falls' associate city of Herborn, Germany.

Larkin served during the Korean War and as a Post Falls firefighter, earning the Idaho State Firefighter of the Year Award in 1978.

"He's lived a life of selfless dedication," said Michael Hunt, a KCFR commissioner. "He's a man of honor, a man of principle."

Post Falls Police Chief Scot Haug added, "Your service and dedication has without question gone above and beyond what was expected."

• Clay Larkin retirement party

The public is invited to former Post Falls Mayor Clay Larkin's retirement party on Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at the Post Falls Senior Center, 1215 E. Third Ave. Special presentations are at 6 p.m. Refreshments will be served. A no-host bar will be available.