Banham sworn in as new Plains mayor

The last working day of 2023 on Friday brought changes in the Plains mayor’s office.

Outgoing Mayor Chris Allen swore in Plains’ newest mayor Joel Banham in a short ceremony at City Hall.

Allen is ending 16 years of service to the citizens of Plains and was looking forward to a quieter lifestyle.

Incoming mayor Banham brings to the position seven years of service as a Ward 1 council member. Leaving his council seat means Banham will need to fill the vacancy. Four individuals have expressed an interest in the position. 

Banham will also need to fill council member Garrett Boon’s position in Ward 2. Boon’s term expired at the end of 2023. 

Council members are required to fill the vacancy within 30 days. Those positions could be filled during the next town council meeting on Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. Applicants are required to live in the district they would serve.

 Banham commented after the swearing-in ceremony, “We will keep doing things as we are. I see the town running very well. We have some good people working for the city. My plan is not to muddy that up and help where I can and do it more efficiently.” 

When asked what he wanted to accomplish during his term Banham said, “Future plans and projects are tying in a new well as a backup to the present water system. Eventually we also need to look at building a new water storage tower as the present tower is reaching old age. Roads and water service lines are always in process of repair and replacement. It's a priority to see the pool open this summer so that's a focus this January.”

Former mayor and current Sanders County Commissioner Dan Rowan was present during the ceremony. Banham's wife Debbie also attended.

    Plains Mayor Joel Banham with former Mayor Chris Allen and Sanders County Commissioner Dan Rowan. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)