Hailey Lewis Sworn in as New Mayor of Moscow, Idaho

Hailey Lewis officially took office as the new mayor of Moscow, Idaho, on Monday, succeeding Art Bettge, who chose not to seek re-election in 2025. During a City Council meeting marking the end of Bettge’s term, Lewis was sworn in for her first four-year term. The meeting also welcomed three newly elected council members: Evan Holmes, Sage McCetich, and Scott Sumner.

Bettge reflected on his time in office, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community. He highlighted key achievements of his administration, which included infrastructural developments such as the bridge and roundabout on Sixth Street and Mountain View Drive, the addition of three full-time paramedics, the creation of a climate action plan, and funding for a new terminal at the Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport. He remarked, “The city is doing well and it’s growing and it’s prospering.”

While acknowledging successes, Bettge also addressed challenges faced during his tenure. He referenced the tragic murder of four University of Idaho students in 2022, an incident that drew international attention and cast a shadow over the community. Additionally, he noted a decrease in state revenue sharing as a significant hurdle. “These issues were addressed as best we could,” he stated, commending the city staff for their dedication and resourcefulness.

New Leadership and Vision

Lewis, a lifelong resident of Moscow whose family has lived in the area for three generations, expressed her deep appreciation for the trust placed in her by the community. She emphasized her commitment to serving the city where she grew up, stating, “I am incredibly grateful and I will never once take for granted the trust that has been placed in me.”

As a member of the City Council since 2021, Lewis aims to bring a collaborative spirit to her new role. She described herself and her fellow council members as “your friends and neighbors,” committed to addressing the needs of the community.

Council member Sumner shared his enthusiasm for fostering productive discussions in the council, stating, “I think healthy disagreement makes us better and leads to better decisions.” McCetich echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for the support he has received and his desire to serve the community well over the next four years.

Holmes took the opportunity to remind the public of the council’s responsibility to prioritize residents’ well-being, urging citizens to hold them accountable. “Please call us to task if we’re forgetting that,” he said.

Outgoing council member Julia Parker expressed her appreciation for her colleagues and city staff, remarking, “I hope the community recognizes how lucky they really are.” Parker’s acknowledgment underscores the collaborative nature of municipal governance in Moscow.

As the transition unfolds, the residents of Moscow look forward to seeing how Lewis and her fellow council members will steer the city through its upcoming challenges and opportunities.