Mayor Terry Smith and Councilman Rich Ashbach bid their formal good-byes on Wednesday, Dec. 27 during a special meeting of the Forest Lake City Council. Smith has left office as a result of a failed reelection bid in November. He gives way to Stev Stegner. Ashbach did not seek reelection. Smith said he was inspired to run by former Gov. Arne Carlson who encouraged him to build a vision for Forest Lake. Smith said that has been started in the new Headwaters and community center project. Ashbach, who served the city and the former township for 15 years, said he was honored to serve. "It's been an honor to serve the residents of Forest Lake," Ashbach said. The two officials were presented with plaques honoring their service to Forest Lake. Forest Lake's new city council takes office on Monday, Jan. 8.

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