Langley welcomed a new mayor this week.
Kennedy Horstman was sworn in at the beginning of a special city council meeting on Tuesday, the day Island County’s general election results were officially certified. Horstman, who ran against Councilmember Thomas Gill for the position, received 565 votes, or about 78% of the vote.
She expressed appreciation for the council, city staff and outgoing mayor Scott Chaplin, among others.
“Thank you to the community for your engagement in our democracy, and to my electoral opponent and esteemed colleague, Councilmember Gill,” she said.
Pamela SeaMonster, the vice chair of the sduhubš (Snohomish) Tribe, was also present during the meeting.
“On behalf of the tribe I want you to know that we are so happy that you have been elected and we would love to continue a good relationship,” SeaMonster said as part of her remarks.
During his two and a half years in office, Chaplin succeeded in repairing and improving relationships between the tribe and the city. He was appointed in 2021 but decided not to seek election this year for the top role in the Village by the Sea.
Chaplin was honored during the meeting with the presentation of a certificate of appreciation from Gill, Councilmember Harolynne Bobis and business owner Leanne Finlay. Chaplin said he also received a solar-powered watch from a group of seniors.
As her first action as mayor, Horstman delayed the budget hearing and moved an ordinance relating to tree code enforcement to a future city council meeting. She informed the council that her first priorities include fiscal planning and management and passage of a statutorily compliant budget.
The next regular meeting of the Langley City Council is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 4.
As of this week, Kennedy Horstman is officially Langley’s new mayor. (Photo by Susan S. Scott)
Langley Mayor Kennedy Horstman got down to business Tuesday night during a special meeting of the city council. (Photo by Susan S. Scott)
Langley Mayor Kennedy Horstman addressed those gathered in council chambers and expressed her gratitude. (Photo by Susan S. Scott)
Members of the public crowded into Langley City Council chambers to catch a glimpse of the new mayor Tuesday. (Photo by Susan S. Scott)
