Jane Mayer says farewell to Douglas council

Outgoing Douglas City Councilwoman Jane Mayer discusses issues at Monday's city council meeting. To the right is City Manager Bill LeFevere.

Jane Mayer’s cell phone rang during Monday’s Douglas City Council meeting — just like it did when she took her council seat at the first meeting of the new city in 2004.

She was so nervous then that instead of turning it off, she turned it back on again. Eight years later, the veteran council member just walked over and shut it off for the rest of her last meeting.

Mayer decided not to run for re-election this year. She served on the village board in the 1980s, then the new city council before leaving office. She was elected again in 2010.

“I loved working with all of you,” she said as Monday’s meeting drew to a close.

She received a hug from City Manager Bill LeFevere and praise from her fellow council members.

“You brought a unique perspective to our council. You will be missed,” said Councilwoman Diane Bailey.

“You have served with such great passion, with spirit and heart,” said Mayor Jim Wiley, who was elected with Mayer in 2010. “I’m proud to have served with you.”

Mayer laughed.

“Honey, I’m not going to leave you alone,” she said.

Four people are on tonight’s ballot for the city council: Incumbents Lisa Greenwood, Eric W. Smith and James I. Wiley and newcomer William H. Japinga will be elected to the four open seats.