Keisha Chapman sworn in as East Point mayor; council members outline infrastructure and public-safety priorities

Keisha Chapman was sworn in as mayor of East Point on Wednesday during a public inauguration at the city’s civic event, where several newly elected and returning City Council members also took the oath of office.

The ceremony, introduced by event organizer Kathy Warren and emceed by Marvin Dickson, featured a welcome from City Manager Redmond Jones, an invocation, musical performances and remarks from a former mayor. Jones called the event a moment to reaffirm public service and encouraged partnership between the incoming leadership and city staff.

Jones said the mayor’s election “reflects the trust of the people of East Point” and urged the new officials to steward that trust through listening and engagement. The program included tributes to longtime volunteers and acknowledgement of community sponsors and neighborhood organizations.

Several council members used their brief remarks to identify immediate priorities. Sean Atkins — who was sworn in to complete and then continue his service on the council — highlighted recent accomplishments during his prior term and said the city will focus on improved service delivery, safer streets and fiscal responsibility. Atkins cited recent street resurfacing, new sidewalks on Ben Hill Road and Washington Road, and streetscape work on Main Street as examples of progress.

Officials also cited public-safety investments. The mayor and council noted an approved $1,200,000 allocation for a new fire truck and funding to renovate Fire Station No. 5 on Washington Road, upgrades to the city’s 911 operations and a drone program intended to enhance officer safety and situational awareness.

At the ceremony, one newly sworn council member described a vision for “smart economic development” that attracts jobs while preserving neighborhood character, and another pledged to prioritize transparency and accountability in city spending and governance.

The oath of office affirmations invoked support for the U.S. Constitution, state law and the city charter and code of ordinances. Family members and local judges administered oaths for multiple council members; the event closed with music and a reception where attendees were invited to meet the mayor and council.

Organizers asked residents to remain engaged with the new leadership: Chapman urged people to “stay engaged and hold us accountable” as the administration moves from inauguration toward governing. The program concluded with a benediction and instructions for a post-ceremony reception.

What’s next: The remarks were ceremonial and outlined priorities; no formal council actions, votes or policy adoptions took place during the ceremony. Council meeting schedules and details about implementation timelines for the projects referenced (including procurement or grant conditions tied to the fire truck and station renovation) were not specified at the event.