John Feeney, a volunteer at New Start High, has been named Burien’s "Citizen of the Year” by the Burien City Council.

The council will honor Feeney at the Feb. 28 council meeting.

At the council’s Feb. 13 meeting, Councilman Gerald Robison praised Feeney for his low-profile involvement in the community and his help to neighbors.

Feeney has performed volunteer work at New Start, an alternative high school in White Center. He has worked with students in identifying and getting rid of invasive species as well as installing native plants in Salmon Creek Ravine.

Beverly Mowrer, a New Start teacher, was recently honored for her conservation work with the New Start students. Mowrer received the highest honor in the 2012 Golden Apple Awards sponsored by KCTS 9.

Feeney also helped a student build a greenhouse as part of the student’s senior project.

In addition, Feeney is a reading volunteer at several elementary schools and been active in Sustainable Burien.

In naming a single “Citizen of the Year” the City Council returned to a tradition begun when Burien was first incorporated.

Recently, the city has partnered with Discover Burien to present awards to several residents during an annual dinner.

Discover Burien is hosting its awards dinner and silent auction fundraiser on Friday, March 2 at the Burien Community Center, 14700 6th Ave. S.W., 6-9 p.m.

Awards will be given for Business Leader of the Year, Non-profit Leader of the Year, Discover Burien Volunteer of the Year, Student of the Year and Clean Sweep team member recognition. The student winner will receive a $500 scholarship.

Robinson Newspapers and the Highline Times will also be presenting its annual Robby Award to a Burien resident or businessperson for outstanding community service.