Garrett Neese/Daily Mining Gazette Rachel Lankton handles ceremonial cake-cutting duties at a celebration in her honor at the Houghton City Council meeting. Lankton served on the Houghton City Council for 16 years, leaving in December 2020 after not seeking re-election.

HOUGHTON — Longtime Houghton City Council member Rachel Lankton’s final meeting took place last year over Zoom.

Last week, the council was finally able to give her a tribute in person.

“It was so low-key last fall that I was just done,” Lankton said. “It was a very interesting time. I had a good time on the council. I enjoyed it.”

Lankton made the ceremonial first cut of cake, which was shared with family, public and city representatives.

“In celebration of over 16 years to the city, the Houghton City Council extends its deepest appreciation for all of Councilor Lankton’s service to the community, and wishes her the best … Rachel, we want to extend a thank you for all that you have done for this community,” said Mayor Bob Backon.

Lankton also served on the Portage Lake District Library Board, Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals and the Carnegie Museum of the Keweenaw Board.

The proclamation mentioned several projects Lankton had been involved with in her time on the council, including the 2006 relocation of the library to the waterfront and the 2019 development of the Houghton Skate Park.

Lankton said her proudest accomplishment was helping with the 2009 streetscape project on Shelden Avenue.

“It made such a difference,” she said. “I really think it gave downtown a real kick in the butt, if I can say that. It got things moving downtown. I think it was really important to get that done.”

With the pandemic, Lankton has spent most of her time since leaving the council staying inside, gardening or reading.

“I enjoyed my time on the council, but I’m glad I’m not on it anymore,” she said.