Stuckart sworn in as Spokane council president

Ben Stuckart was sworn in Wednesday afternoon as Spokane's new city council president.

Stuckart took his oath of office from the US Attorney and then thanked his parents and wife for their support.

A Spokane native and one of four new council members, Stuckart told a packed room of supporters he'll work to ensure Spokane businesses thrive and pledged to make city government more accessible to the people who live here.

"I see a city government that does not hide behind the walls of city hall but opens itself to self reflection and answers questions, city council chambers will be transformed into a welcoming environment and monthly public forums will start in February," Stuckart said.

Stuckart says he plans to move the public comment opportunities to the top of the agenda at future city council meetings.

Spokane's new mayor, David Condon, will be sworn into office Friday at the clock tower in Riverfront Park