By Dee Camp
Chronicle staff

     John Combs, a member of the Okanogan City Council for six years, resigned June 17 and said he’s “goin’ fishin’.”
     Combs said he purchased a mobile home in the Coulee Dam area and will move out of Okanogan.
     “I won’t be living in town anymore,” he said. “I’m goin’ fishin’.”
     Combs was appointed to the council March 5, 2002, and ran for mayor in 2005. He was defeated by the incumbent, Michael Blake.
     “You did learn a lot,” Combs told Blake with a smile.
     “You’ve sparked debate that would not occur otherwise,” Blake responded.
     Combs praised Okanogan County sheriff Frank Rogers for his efforts in working with the city on contracts for police protection. He also praised former councilman Sean Johnson and said if the council has an opportunity to re-seat Johnson, it should.
     Before joining the council, Combs had worked 33 years at the Omak mill (now Colville Indian Plywood and Veneer) under several owners. He took early retirement, attended Wenatchee Valley College and in 2001 opened an accounting service.
     Combs said he’s especially enjoyed working on the budget during his tenure on the council.
     “I’ve enjoyed being here, but I’ll also enjoy being gone,” Combs said.