Grand Junction City Council elects Cody Kennedy and Laurel Cole as mayor and pro tem

The Grand Junction City Council convened on May 7, 2025, to address the urgent need for leadership following the absence of a mayor and mayor pro tem. Council member Anna Stout initiated the meeting, emphasizing the importance of electing a temporary president pro tem to facilitate the selection of a new mayor and mayor pro tem for the upcoming term.

City Manager Bennett and City Clerk Sandoval guided the council through the process, highlighting the necessity of appointing a temporary president pro tem. After a brief discussion, the council unanimously appointed Cody Kennedy to this role, allowing him to oversee the election of the new mayor and mayor pro tem.

Following this appointment, the council moved swiftly to nominations. Council member Stout nominated Cody Kennedy for mayor, while Laurel Cole was nominated for mayor pro tem. The council opted for separate votes on these nominations, a procedural decision that was supported by the members. Kennedy was elected as mayor with a vote of 6 in favor and 1 opposed, while Cole was unanimously appointed as mayor pro tem.

Both Kennedy and Cole took their oaths of office, pledging to uphold the Constitution and faithfully perform their duties. The meeting concluded with a brief recess to allow for administrative adjustments, marking a significant step in the council's leadership transition. The successful appointments are expected to provide stability and direction for the city as it moves forward.