Ken Matlack receives an award Dec. 21, 2021, from Irrigon Mayor Margaret Anderson for 20 years of service on the Irrigon City Council. Matlack, Morrow County sheriff, stepped down from the council in October. He retired as sheriff in November 2022.

The Irrigon City Council during its meeting Tuesday, Dec. 21, honored Ken Matlack for 20 years of service on the council.

Matlack, Morrow County sheriff, stepped down from the council in October. He appeared at the meeting with his wife, Shirley Matlack, and said the move freed up time for other interests.

Irrigon Mayor Margaret Anderson praised Matlack for his service.

“Ken has done a lot for this community,” she said. “We appreciate him.”

Anderson, who has worked with Matlack since 2012, credited Matlack’s ability for critical thinking. Also, she said he will be missed on the council.

Irrigon City Manager Aaron Palmquist wished Matlack well and said the city has yet to advertise the opening. Whoever the council selects will serve the remaining three years of Matlack’s four-year term, ending with the next election.