Powell City Councilman Steve Lensegrav plans to leave the council at the end of the year, when his second term comes to close.

After eight years representing Ward 1, “I’d like to see somebody else give it a whirl,” Lensegrav said.

He informed the Tribune of his decision following the council’s April 20 meeting.

Lensegrav said he’s enjoyed his time as a councilor, but the Powell High School assistant principal/Shoshone Learning Center principal and grandfather is looking to take something off his plate.

“It’s been an awesome experience, and I would encourage someone to run for it,” Lensegrav said, calling the position “a great way to serve the community.” 

Being on the council also offers an opportunity to see “the amazing amount of work that people do behind the scenes that make the city go and get to be kind of front and center” by providing input, Lensegrav said.

Ward 1 covers the northcentral and northeast section of town, generally encompassing the area east of Division Street and north of Third or Fourth streets. Those who want to represent the area on the council must be registered to vote and have lived in the ward for at least a year. Candidates can formally file for the position at Powell City Hall between May 14 and 29.

“The more people that run for it, the better,” Lensegrav said.

The other council positions up for election this year are those currently held by Ward 2 council members Zane Logan and Kristy Fields and Ward 3 Councilman Tim Sapp. Logan told the Tribune he plans to seek a third term, and Fields — who was appointed last year to fill the seat formerly occupied by the death of Councilman Floyd Young — is running to serve the final two years of Young’s term; Fields will face competition from fellow candidate John Sinskie.

The Tribune was unable to reach Sapp about his election plans. He is in his 24th year on the council.

The filing period for municipal and partisan offices opens today (Thursday) and closes on May 29.