Palmer begins service as mayor of Oakesdale

New Oakesdale mayor Dennis Palmer (right) raises his right hand to accept the title of mayor. Former mayor Russ Rickett (left) read him the oath of office Jan. 4.

Life-long Oakesdale resident Dennis Palmer was sworn in as Oakesdale mayor the night of Jan. 4.

Palmer, 68, is taking over for Russ Rickett, who served as mayor for the past five years.

Palmer, who has been on the city council for the past year, won the Nov. 4 election over another Oakesdale councilman, Al Evans.

For the city, Palmer wants to pursue getting a helicopter pad, remodeling the old tennis court, building a public restroom...