The Ins & Outs Of Deer Park City Council

New Councilmembers take the oath of office. Left to Right, Amber Costello & Councilmember Billy Costello, Councilmember Diane Pfaeffle, and Councilmember Fred Senn.

For the first time in over 20 years, three new Councilmembers have simultaneously taken the oath of office. Former Councilmember Hellen “Dee” Cragun first took her position in 1997, lost her reelection attempt last year.

Just before taking the oath of office, Billy Costello asked his wife to hold a bible for him to place his hand on while reciting the oath. Councilmember Costello is joined on the council by Councilmembers Diane Pfaeffle and Fred Senn. Councilmember Costello was selected as Mayor Pro Tem, who fills in for the Mayor in case the need should arise. You can view a video of the meeting on our YouTube Channel at: DPGazette.com/aawyg.

Pictured Above: Former Councilmember Hellen “Dee” Cragun poses wearing a jacket bearing the city logo, accompanied by one of her grandsons.

With a record of 26 years, Former Councilmember Hellen “Dee” Cragun has served the city with dedication and represented the city in a wide range of governmental committees. During the meeting, she was showered with praise. She was also given a wooden clock with the Deer Park City limits etched on its face and a winter jacket with an embroidered city logo. Video from the last meeting of 2023 is available at: DPGazette.com/rotpz.

Also leaving the council, both Caleb Stapp and Naomi Diaz had chosen not to run for reelection last year. Still on the council, Jason Upchurch and Heather Newsom are tied with the most experience, two years each.

Sources:

Featured Sponsor
Thank You For Your Support!

Related Articles

North Spokane Open Mic In-Person

Young poets will take center stage at the North Spokane Open Mic. They will share their original work in a supportive and welcoming environment. This event offers high school students a chance to build confidence before entering the world of competitive poetry slams.

Read More »

WA Saves Could Cost Business Owners

Most Washington businesses without an employer-sponsored retirement plan must register for WA Saves, starting July 1, 2027, the state’s new retirement savings program. WA Saves aims to help employees build financial security by requiring businesses to offer payroll-deducted Roth IRAs managed through the state. While beneficial for workers, the program raises concerns for employers, particularly small businesses.

Read More »

Dr. Ernest W Kettel

Dr. Ernest Walther Kettel died in his home peacefully with Jo Ann, his wife of 73 years, at his side on February 7th, 2025 at the age of 96.
He was born on October 8, 1928 at home in Wild Rose, North Dakota to Carl William Kettel and Orla (Kolke) Kettel.

Read More »

Celebrate Your Community At The Annual Art Show

The SCLD Community Art Show is back, inviting artists of all ages to showcase their creativity and love for their community. Free miniature canvases will be available at Spokane County Libraries throughout February. This year’s theme, Celebrate Your Community, encourages participants to highlight what makes their hometown special.

Read More »

GreenHouse Food & Clothing Bank Change Of Hours

The GreenHouse Food and Clothing is once again adjusting its hours, this time reducing service availability and shifting to an earlier schedule. However, food bank representatives encourage those with scheduling conflicts to reach out for potential accommodations.

Read More »

Slideshow: WinterFest 2025

Deer Park’s WinterFest 2025 brought the community together with fun traditions like outhouse races, a bustling craft fair, and live music. Check out our online gallery.

Read More »

Share this!

Featured Sponsor
Thank You For Your Support!

Share this!

Featured Sponsor
Thank You For Your Support!

Read more news.

Ellen Standen Profile Photo

An Interview With Council Member Ellen Standen

Ellen Standen, a Deer Park resident since 1974, shares her journey from Northern California to her current role on the Deer Park City Council. With a long and varied history of service to the community, she reflects on the town’s growth and her aspirations for its future.

Read More »

Deer Park City Council Expands To Seven Members

Deer Park’s city council has expanded from five to seven members in response to the city’s population growth, reaching 5,000 residents. Ross Hall, a former teacher and coach, and Chase Vining, a local business owner, were appointed to serve through 2025.

Read More »

Subscribe to our emails

Use the form below to sign up to receive news via email at no cost to you.

Read & Support The

Local news to keep you informed and entertained. The Deer Park Gazette is locally owned and operated. When you support the Deer Park Gazette, you support local writers and photographers.