JoAnn Conner says "I won't go quietly into the night"

Outgoing South Lake Tahoe City Councilwoman JoAnn Conner was honored for her four years of service to the community during a special Council meeting Monday. She was awarded a plaque, but didn't leave her former position without a few words to say.

Conner's term was not a quiet one. As she said she "fought for the little people," Conner also filed a lawsuit against the City and was censured by her colleagues.

As she spoke to the small group gathered in Chambers to bid farewell, Conner said she would continue to fight for the those that can't fight themselves.

"I have fought fearlessly for every little citizen," said Conner. "I did my best to stand up for those people. I will continue to represent them and will continue without my freedom of speech infringed upon."

Conner lost her bid for reelection in November after a public battle with fellow Councilmembers and City Staff.

She had supporters that came up to say "thank you" before stepping off the dais for the last time.

"I have so much admiration for JoAnn," said local resident Mary Oney.

"I know how it feels to be the odd one out," said Jonnie Crawford, widow of recently deceased Bill Crawford who served two terms on the Council. "You always need one devil's advocate."

"I will stay vigilant," added Conner. "I don't intend to go quietly into the night."