SANDPOINT — Three City Councilors, including two fresh faces, were sworn in for four-year terms on the dais at Wednesday evening’s meeting.

Joel Aispuro, the top-vote getter, was first to be sworn in for his third term on the council, followed by Joe Tate and Joshua Torrez. Both Tate and Torrez are newcomers to the council, winning their seats back in November on a platform of keeping Sandpoint’s priorities as a city aligned with longtime residents. 

After Aispuro retook the dais, joined by Tate and Torrez, he seconded a motion made by Councilor Pam Duquette to nominate Councilor Deb Ruehle as council president. Ruehle accepted the nomination and was unanimously elected for another term as council president. 

“I would like to renominate Deb,” Duquette said. “I think she's done a fine job as a leader with her experience, if she is so willing.” 

Before the ceremonies, outgoing Councilors Justin Dick and Rick Howarth took time to thank their fellow councilors and Mayor Jeremy Grimm. Dick, who served a four-year term and opted against running for reelection, said he was grateful for his time on council and the chance to serve the community.  

“Politics makes strange bedfellows,” Dick said. I know that there's some of you that I don't think we've agreed on much, but I appreciate all your passion and your fervor that you put into this ... Thank you to the public for allowing me this privilege and this honor to be up here for the last four years.” 

Howarth, who served on the council since April 2024, said he was honored to get the chance to serve and learn so much about the city his wife grew up in. He also encouraged citizens to continue their participation in civic issues.  

"I took her away from Sandpoint for about 40 years to travel and work around the world, and when I came back to live here in this community, I didn't know much about it,” Howarth said. “So, the opportunity to come and sit on the dais and learn about the city has been phenomenal for me.” 

The remaining councilors and Grimm thanked the two for their service to the city, before they were presented with a letter and a customary framed picture from atop Gold Hill. 

“Enjoy your Wednesdays!” Duquette joked. 

    Joel Aispruo is sworn in for his third term on Sandpoint City Council alongside his friend Aaron Guyett.
  

    Joe Tate is sworn in for his first term on Sandpoint City Council alongside his mother Barbara Guazza and family friend Jay Watson.