Moyie Springs City Council President Chad Farrens took up his new post as mayor on Nov. 9, with Heather Andrews filling his vacant seat on the council.

Farrens, who has served on the council for about 18 years ­— eight years as council president — has been filling in as mayor since Oct. 5, after former mayor Doug Evans stepped down due to health reasons.

Evans served as the city’s mayor since 2008, before officially resigning on Sept. 22. Councilman Steve Economu made a motion to accept Evans’ letter of resignation on Nov. 9, but wanted it noted that it was with much regret.

Economu made a motion to accept Farrens as the mayor, filling the vacancy for the remainder of Evan’s term. Councilman Terry Johnson seconded the motion.

With Farrens taking up his new post, the council voted to appoint Economu as the new council president.

City attorney Dan Featherston advised Farrens that he could appoint a new council person with the council’s vote of approval.

Farren’s recommended Andrews for the vacant seat, stating that she had lived in the city for most of her life. Council voted in Andrews’ favor.

Farrens told the Herald that he was deeply regretful of Evan’s departure and that he took the position because of his concern for the city.

“Doug was a good mayor,” Farrens said. “He did a lot for this city. It’s going to be hard to fill his shoes, but I care about this community and I will do my best.”

Farrens said the biggest issue facing the city is the wastewater facility and the residents living within 200 feet of the system. In the past two years, residents have seen a significant increase in their sewer bill, with it currently set at $45 per month.

On Nov. 9, residents voiced concerned that the price will continue to increase.

Farrens said the council is very concerned as well. The city hired Welch Comer, an engineering company, to conduct a facility study. The company presented the results of their study at the public hearing during November’s session.

“The universal feeling was not good,” Farrens said, “and we want the community to know that it is not the city pushing for the increased rates. We are looking into every possible avenue. I will ensure that the people of Moyie Springs are heard and that their concerns are addressed appropriately.”

In order for the city to be eligible for federal grants, the city was forced to raise the rates to $45, however the council is researching alternative options that will enable them to become compliant with Department of Environmental Quality regulations at an affordable rate.

Andrews, who is immediately affected by the rate increase because she lives within 200 feet of the wastewater facility, said she volunteered to fill the vacant seat because she is concerned for her neighborhood and wants to help resolve the issue.

“I’m concerned about the sewer issue — that our rates will be increased,” Andrews said. “We all are. That is why I volunteered to fill the position — so that the people of Moyie Springs would have a voice.”

Both Farrens and Andrews will have to officially run for their positions in the November 2017 election if they choose to do so.