OTHELLO — Outgoing Othello City Council members were recognized at the last meeting of the year Monday. 

“It’s been a huge honor in my life, the biggest honor I could ever think of, serving with every single person up here on this council, with past council members and with the staff of the city,” said council member Corey Everett. “We have a phenomenal staff in this city. Not only department heads – it’s everybody. I feel very honored to work with everybody here.” 

Outgoing Mayor Shawn Logan recognized Everett, along with council members John Lallas and Genna Dorow. Everett and Lallas did not file for reelection; Dorow and Logan were defeated in their reelection bids. New mayor Ken Johnson and three new council members take office Jan. 1. 

Lallas and Everett were elected to the council in 2012, Dorow in 2010. Logan said all three were focused on what they thought was best for the city, even if they didn’t always agree on what that was. 

“Corey always came prepared for council meetings. He reviewed the material and the subject matter thoroughly,” Logan said. “He asked questions and felt strongly that the was not going to be a yes man to anything that he didn’t believe in. He, many times, was the lone dissenting voice when the council voted on a matter. Yet Corey was a positive influence for change.” 

Lallas had a feeling for Othello’s history, Logan said. He advocated for the city’s annexation of PJ Taggeres Park, which Logan said he was hesitant to take on. 

“John changed my mind,” Logan said. “He told of Pete Taggeres’s reasons for the park, and how the city had the opportunity to take full responsibility for it and make it into something positive for the people of Othello. Today, the neighborhood is thrilled with the changes and Taggeres Park is now the soccer location of choice for all the city leagues.” 

Lallas expressed his thanks to Othello residents. 

Dorow is a former public works department employee, and her expertise was helpful, Logan said. 

“Genna has served this city well,” Logan said. “She’s been here while the city council made many of the formative decisions that resulted in lasting benefits for our city. Genna will be remembered for her common sense and problem-solving skills to benefit the city.”  

Dorow said she’s proud of the city’s progress. 

“Public service isn’t about winning or losing. It’s about showing up, doing the work and making decisions you can stand behind,” she said. “Over the years. I’ve tried to lead with a steady focus on what’s best for the long-term health of the community, even when that wasn’t the easiest path. Serving this city has been an honor.” 

Dorow said the support of city staff and engagement of Othello residents has been an asset.  

“I want to thank our city staff for their professionalism and dedication, and our residents for caring enough to engage us, challenge us and hold us accountable,” she said.  

Everett said Othello has, in his opinion, a solid foundation for the future.  

“It’s kind of exciting to see what’s going to happen with the new council, the new mayor. I hope the good continues, and I have a very open mind that it’s going to,” he said. 

Genna Dorow, left, receives a plaque from Othello Mayor Shawn Logan, right, in recognition of her 15 years on the Othello City Council.

Mayor Shawn Logan, right, shakes hands with Othello City Council member John Lallas, left, while recognizing Lallas for 12 years on the council.