Leonardo Williams sworn in as Durham mayor; Caballero named mayor pro tem

Leonardo Williams was sworn in as Durham’s mayor Dec. 1 during the city council’s organizational meeting, affirmed his oath to the Constitution and offered brief remarks urging the council to focus on governing rather than campaigning.

The Durham County Board of Elections presented certified results for the 2025 municipal cycle, confirming Williams as mayor and Matt Kopack (Ward 1), Shanetta Burris (Ward 2) and Chelsea Cook (Ward 3). Board staff read turnout figures for the October primary and November general election and distributed ceremonial certificates to newly elected members.

At the meeting Mayor Williams presented service plaques and colleagues paid tribute to outgoing council member Deidreana Freeman, who delivered a lengthy farewell address reflecting on eight years of service and urging residents to remain engaged. ‘‘Learn the business of your city government,’’ Freeman told the chamber, and closed her remarks with ‘‘Bull City strong.’’

Williams nominated Council member Alexander Javier Caballero to serve as mayor pro tem; the nomination was seconded and the council voted to confirm the appointment. Caballero then took the oath and assumed the duties of mayor pro tem.

The council also moved and unanimously approved routine business, including appointments to city advisory bodies and a multi-item consent agenda covering contract amendments and project authorizations. Mayor Williams asked the Board of Elections to return to provide an analysis of election costs and schedule, saying the city spends increasingly more on elections and requesting staff follow-up.

Next steps: Caballero will serve as mayor pro tem, and the newly seated council will proceed with its regular agenda in upcoming meetings.