New Raymore council members sworn in; outgoing members honored at April 13 meeting

Following adoption of the election-certification ordinance, the council conducted swearing-in ceremonies for its newly elected members and recognized outgoing council members with plaques and remarks.

Josh McDonald, Thomas Serco, JD Holman and Jeremy Rowe each repeated the official oath administered at the clerk's direction and were congratulated by colleagues. Each then took office for a two-year council term as provided by the ordinance adopted earlier in the meeting. Direct quotes from the oath appear in the transcript, including Josh McDonald saying, "I, Josh McDonald, do solemnly swear." Thomas Serco, JD Holman and Jeremy Rowe made similar sworn statements.

Mayor Turnbull presented plaques to departing council members. Brian Mills accepted his plaque and said, "It's been a privilege to serve the residents of Ward 1 for the past 2 years," and urged continued citizen engagement. Sonia Abdelghawad received a plaque marking 14 years of service and urged the new council to consult a range of perspectives; she said, "Finally, as there are no longer any women or minorities on our council, it will be important for you all to seek out those points of view." Abdelghawad also recommended Missouri Municipal League training for newer council members and praised city staff and past local leaders.

The mayor and outgoing members emphasized stewardship, transparency and listening to quieter constituencies while advising newly seated members to treat council power as collective, not individual. After remarks and plaques, the council adjourned the regular meeting and arranged a reception before a special session later the same evening.

No public comment opposing or supporting the certifications or swearing-in was recorded in the transcript.