Oakland swears in three commissioners; longtime commissioner Sal Ramos honored

Mayor Shane Taylor swore in three town commissioners at the Town of Oakland’s March 24 meeting, installing Chris Keller, Yumiko Motley and Joseph McMullen for new terms and urging residents to get involved in advisory boards and town events.

Taylor opened the ceremony by recapping election results for one commission seat and reading the oath of office. Commissioner Chris Keller said she was "incredibly proud and humbled to continue to serve the residents of the Town of Oakland" and urged citizens to consider serving on advisory boards such as the Appearance Review Board and Planning & Zoning. Yumiko Motley said she was "overwhelmed with joy and gratitude" and thanked family and supporters. Joseph McMullen, who won the contested race, invited residents who did not vote for him to reach out: "Let's talk. My cell phone is everywhere. My email is everywhere. I'm here everywhere." (Attribution: Chris Keller; Yumiko Motley; Joseph McMullen.)

The commission also presented a proclamation honoring Commissioner Sal Ramos for 10 years of service, noting his 2015 appointment and prior work on the charter review committee. Ramos thanked family and colleagues and reflected on the town’s progress, saying it had been “an honor” to serve.

Mayor Taylor used the occasion to highlight upcoming community events — including Celebration Among the Oaks and Arts and Heritage Center openings — and to call attention to openings on several town boards. The meeting continued into regular business at 7 p.m.

The swearing-in and recognition were ceremonial; no formal policy was enacted during that portion of the meeting.