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New and returning alders sworn in, cite budget pressure and local projects
Summary
Multiple newly sworn-in and returning alders used brief remarks to thank supporters and outline priorities: addressing a reported structural budget deficit, improving parks and community centers, and process and equity commitments from council leaders.
Several newly sworn and returning members of the City of Racine Common Council addressed the chamber during the council’s organizational meeting in April, thanking supporters and outlining top priorities for the coming term.
Alder Weiss said she was "really excited to serve the city" and described plans to set up communication channels to stay in touch with constituents after extensive door-to-door outreach ("just about 1000 doors," she said). Ald. Mack, sworn in from the 4th District, said this is his seventh oath and flagged a structural deficit the council must address; he also named local projects he expects to pursue, including a Lakeview Park playground, the Lincoln King Center community center and speed humps on Michigan Boulevard.
Ald. Weidner, marking a twelfth swearing-in, spoke about putting community before politics and told colleagues his most recent win was decided by 16 votes, underscoring the point that "every vote matters." Ald. Hodges and Ald. DeMarque offered remarks thanking elders, volunteers and family and pledged to represent their districts and the broader city.
Returning and newly sworn alders repeatedly emphasized constituent outreach and equity. Ald. Harmon, arriving late to the ceremony, apologized for the delay and thanked voters and colleagues for their support. Several speakers framed the coming year as one that will require difficult choices and close attention to city finances.
The organizational meeting then moved to leadership elections and committee appointments; those outcomes were handled by ballot and read by the clerk.
The remarks were ceremonial but included policy signposts — budget shortfalls and specific local projects — that the new council will address during the coming term.
