Mayor Patterson introduced Becca Lachman as the 2026–2028 poet laureate for the city of Athens. Lachman thanked the council and described her vision to "focus on poetry and the body," proposing collaborations with local medical, mental-health and arts organizations to integrate poetry with wellness practices.

Lachman read a poem written the previous month, dedicated to several Athenians, and encouraged the community to gather poems and poets as part of efforts to strengthen civic wellbeing and connection.

The presentation was brief and ceremonial; no council action was required beyond the introduction and recognition.