Melissa Elliott sworn in as Henderson City's first Black female mayor
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Summary
Melissa Elliott was sworn in as mayor at the Henderson City Council's organizational meeting on Dec. 11, 2023; new councilmembers took their oaths, a Mayor Pro Tem was appointed, and outgoing members offered remarks of gratitude and advice.
Melissa Elliott took the oath of office on Dec. 11, 2023, becoming the city’s first Black female mayor as the Henderson City Council held its organizational meeting.
Judge Henry R. Banks administered the oath to Elliott and to newly elected councilmembers Sam Seifert (Ward 2), Michael Venable (Ward 3) and Tami Walker (Ward 4); Judge Benjamin S. Hunter swore in Geraldine Champion (Ward 1) earlier in the ceremony. After the oaths, Judge Banks offered a brief charge to the new council, saying, "It takes a village," and urging leaders to protect and nourish local youth.
Outgoing Mayor Eddie Ellington and departing councilmembers shared parting remarks. Councilmember Marion B. Williams urged the newly elected members to consult one another, rely on the City Manager for administrative guidance, and "let God lead" their decisions. Longtime Councilmember D. Michael Rainey reflected on 20 years of service and congratulated Elliott on her election.
The council recessed for a short reception and reconvened later that evening, when Elliott asked for nominations for Mayor Pro Tem. Councilmember Ola Thorpe-Cooper nominated Councilmember Garry D. Daeke; Geraldine Champion seconded the nomination, and with no further nominations or objections Daeke was appointed Mayor Pro Tem.
The meeting included an Employee of the Month recognition: City Manager Edward T. Blackmon described a new program from Human Resources, and Fire Chief Tim Twisdale commended Amy Colbert as the first "Star Performer of the Month." The council adjourned at 7:54 p.m.
The swearing-in and Pro Tem appointment complete the council’s organizational duties; no further votes or policy actions on those items were taken at the meeting.