Keisha Chapman was sworn in as mayor of East Point on Jan. 14 during a public inauguration that also included the oath of office for four newly seated or re-elected City Council members. Chapman told the crowd she would work with the council and city manager to attract businesses, expand public arts and preserve the city’s history.

Chapman, administered the oath in front of residents, family and civic leaders, framed her term around partnership and stewardship. "East Point, I love you," Chapman said in her remarks, adding she will "work tirelessly with my colleagues and the city manager to make sure that we are able to attract, retain, and promote the most exceptional talent that East Point has ever seen." Her remarks emphasized investment in public programming, historic preservation and accountability.

The ceremony featured remarks from City Manager Redmond Jones, who lauded Chapman’s election and described public service as "rooted not in the authority, but in the service," and from former mayor and pastor Joe Hiller, who urged the new council to be bold and work together. Michael Hightower, a longtime local public official and business leader, also praised the balance between change and stability as the city transitions leadership.

Councilmembers sworn in at the ceremony included Jeffrey Johnson Hemming (Ward A at-large), Sean Atkins (Ward B at-large), Star Cummings (Ward C at-large) and Andrea Caldwell (Ward D at-large). Each took the oath required by the city charter and Georgia law and offered short remarks about priorities such as neighborhood preservation, fiscal stewardship and safer streets. Atkins said the theme guiding his service would be "We are 1," and emphasized smart economic development and fiscal responsibility.

Speakers highlighted recent and planned local investments. Chapman and council members noted prior work that funded an improved 9-1-1 center and the city’s drone program; one speaker referenced a $1,200,000 appropriation for a new fire truck and said the police department’s operations are supported by more than 200 strategically placed cameras. City Manager Redmond Jones urged the council to view his office as the professional resource to turn long-term vision into day-to-day action.

The ceremony included musical tributes — the Black national anthem and an instrumental performance by saxophonist Isaiah Tatum — and an appearance by R&B singer Glenn Jones. The event closed with a benediction from Pastor Christopher Taylor and an invitation to a reception where attendees could meet the mayor and council.

The new mayor and council did not take formal votes during the ceremony; the event focused on oaths, remarks and celebration. Chapman urged residents to remain engaged and hold elected officials accountable as the new term begins.