The Wilmore City Council hosted its last meeting for 2016 on Monday night. One city council member will not be returning when it reconvenes in the New Year. 

Council member Jeff James was presented a plaque for his six years of service on the city council. 

“My years with this council have made me more a son of Wilmore than simply being born here ever did,” James said. 

Before his last meeting adjourned, James urged the council not to cling to a sentimental version of Wilmore. 

“Sameness, even if it were possible to maintain, is not a virtue,” he said. “Change will come. It will either come on us, or come from us.” 

Assistant Professor at Asbury University David Riel  will be taking James’  place as city councilmen. 

“He’s my councilman now, and like all of you, he will have my support,” James said to the council. “And I know he will do very well here, because he has good partners.”