Mayor Don Larson's chair was surrounded by congratulatory balloons during the City Council meeting Jan. 12. Larson began his fourth term as Seaside mayor.

It was a night of firsts for both the youngest and the oldest member of the Seaside City Council Jan. 12.

Seth Morrisey was sworn in as city councilor to fill a term left vacant by former councilor Stubby Lyons. A few minutes later, Don Larson was sworn in as mayor for his fourth term, which he believes is unprecedented in Seaside.

Councilors Dana Phillips, Tita Montero and Jay Barber were also sworn in for their second terms. Councilors Don Johnson and Randy Frank were not up for re-election last November.

Larson called Morrisey a “wonderful, new, young asset” to the City Council.

The mayor also said he was looking forward to four more years. “We’re doing our best to make Seaside be the best around,” he added.

Larson said he was anxious for the council to continue setting goals. Among his priorities is the annexation of the property south of Seaside and opening a boat ramp “whether we reopen it where it is (on Oceanway) or move it somewhere else.”

He also wants the council to find some way to keep skateboards and bicycles off of downtown sidewalks.

“There is an ordinance that bicycles follow cars, and cars do not use the sidewalk,” said Larson, adding, “Someday I’m going to get hit by a skateboard.”

Following his short speech, Larson sat down in his chair at the dais, which was surrounded by balloons with congratulatory messages, including one that said, “You rock!”