ELBERTA - The new term began on Monday, Nov. 2. During the October council meeting, the Town of Elberta said goodbye to three councilmembers who will be stepping down at that time. Alma Doege, Randy Kurtts, and Paul Hopper did not run in this year’s local elections. Their seats will be filled by Teresa Newton, Jeffrey Scott Ulrich, and Christopher Keeler Bourne.

Doege has served on the council for the last 22 years and has served under three mayors. Mayor Jim Hamby said she gave him advice on his first day in service that he’s followed ever since: check off each agenda line item as you go so you won’t forget where you are on the list.

“It’s been a rewarding and good journey, and I’m very appreciative,” Doege said. “The good times outweigh the bad times. I wish the new councilmembers a lot of Godspeed and good work!”

Kurtts returned to the council last year after previous councilmember Michael Hudson moved outside of town limits. Kurtts was then appointed to the seat based on his prior council experience and knowledge of the Miflin area.

“I want to thank the council for thinking enough of me a year ago to appoint me to this position,” Kurtts said. “It’s been good for me, and I want to say to the ones that ran in this year’s election and who show an interest in this town that I wish them luck and guidance.”

Hopper has served on the council for four years, and was vital in beginning the paving projects on Highways 83 and 20.

“Paul was the one who identified the grant and the loan process that allowed the town to get the road paved, and that was huge,” Hamby said. “Then because of the creative way that we were able to do the project, we won an award for the Town of Elberta because we were able to get the federal, state, county, and local governments to work together to pave the road.”

Hamby and the council wished them all luck and gave thanks for their services to the town. For more information on Elberta, check out https://townofelberta.com.