Jerry Hodge sworn in as Newton mayor; council elects John Stiver mayor pro tem

The Newton City Council conducted organizational business and routine approvals at its Dec. 5 meeting, administering oaths of office to newly elected Mayor Jerry T. Hodge and Council Member Jonathan McClure, re-affirming re-elected members Jody Dixon and Beverly Danner, and electing Council Member John M. Stiver as Mayor Pro Tempore by a 4–2 vote.

Mayor Hodge opened nominations for mayor pro tem. Council Member Ed Sain nominated John Stiver; Council Member Jonathan McClure nominated Beverly Danner. The council voted 4–2, with Stiver, Sain, Dixon and Roy Johnson in favor and Danner and McClure opposed, to elect John M. Stiver as Mayor Pro Tempore.

Earlier in the meeting the council unanimously approved the minutes from its Nov. 14 meeting (motion by Roy Johnson, seconded by Ed Sain) and unanimously approved the consent agenda on a motion by Jody Dixon, seconded by Roy Johnson. The consent agenda included sewer adjustments, approvals for East Newton event road closures, and budget ordinance amendments to recognize donations to the Police Department from Rotary and Christ Alive. The council also approved the 2024 regular meeting schedule by unanimous vote (motion by Ed Sain, seconded by Jody Dixon).

During public comment, resident Michael McRee told the council that "nothing has been improved in my neighborhood despite higher taxes" and invited officials to tour his area. Eric Heller said he was concerned about safety at an intersection near Food Lion, reporting "at least four wrecks" there. City Manager Sean Hovis reported city office closures for the Christmas holiday (Dec. 25–27) with a one-day shift to sanitation collection, and promoted Newton Noël events including a Cart Parade and performances at the Frank & Sue Jones Amphitheatre.

The council adjourned by unanimous motion. The meeting minutes, ordinances and resolutions referenced are on file with the City Clerk.