Council Member Says Good-Bye Waukee, Hello Seattle

Waukee City Council member Darlene Stanton's eight years of service with the city of Waukee will end Oct. 18.

But she doesn't look at it as retirement.

Stanton is moving to Seattle to be closer to her two grandchildren, Liam, 4, and Lexie, 2. She says the move does not mean she's retiring, nor does it mean she's abandoning her role as a community advocate.

"I wouldn't say I'm retiring," Stanton said. "I would say it's a shift in direction. I will continue to be an active volunteer, it just won't be politically. I'm looking forward to being a grandma and making life more about family."

Stanton moved to Waukee in 2003 from Clive, where she served on the Clive City Council. She was sworn into the Waukee City Council in June 2003. Eight years as a resident and a council member has endeared Stanton to the city of Waukee.

"I'm going to miss living in Waukee," she said. "It has grown so quickly, but still has that small town sense of community. The people are helpful and friendly and take pride in their town. I can't say enough about it."

In the same way Stanton will miss Waukee, members of Waukee city government will also miss her.

"The public was well-served by Darlene Stanton," said Mayor Bill Peard. "Her work ethic and her ability to dig deep into complicated issues - whether you agreed with her or not, she was always doing her best to be fair and figure out real solutions for the people in Waukee."

Peard said what made Stanton stand out in Waukee was that she "walked the walk and talked the talk," when it came to working in public service.

"I have nothing but respect for Darlene," said Peard. "What she did for the citizens of Waukee was admirable. She was heavily involved in the community and was always at community events - that made her an even better public servant."

The city of Waukee will host an open house reception today from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Waukee City Council chambers, 230 W. Hickman Road. The public is invited to come enjoy cake and punch in honor of Stanton's years of service to the city of Waukee.