Henderson swears in new council members, selects Coffey as mayor pro tem and reappoints key staff

HENDERSON — During its Dec. 9 reorganizational meeting, Henderson City Council swore in newly elected members and completed leadership and staffing appointments to begin the 2019–2022 term.

Mayor Eddie Ellington presided over the ceremony and presented tributes to outgoing Council Member George M. Daye, including a proclamation and a key to the city. Daye thanked the Council and citizens and said it had been a joy to serve.

Judge Caroline Burnette, identified in the minutes as a District Attorney, administered the oaths of office to Council Members Marion B. Williams, D. Michael Rainey, Melissa Elliott and Jason A. Spriggs, and re-swore Mayor Ellington for a second term. Following the oath, Council recessed so family and guests could greet the newly sworn officials.

Council then cast written ballots for the Mayor Pro Tempore position. The City Clerk announced Sara M. Coffey received five votes; D. Michael Rainey received two votes; one Council Member did not complete the ballot. The minutes record that Council Member Elliott left the meeting during this vote.

In a separate motion, Council appointed Frank Frazier as City Manager, D. Rix Edwards as City Attorney and Esther J. McCrackin as City Clerk. Council Member D. Michael Rainey moved the appointment; Council Member Marion B. Williams seconded, and the motion passed with Council Member Elliott recorded absent for that vote.

The reorganizational actions set leadership for Council’s upcoming term and ensured continuity in key administrative roles. Family members of the incoming officials joined each on stage as they signed the Oath of Office, and Council recessed briefly to allow attendees to offer congratulations before returning for new-business items.

The minutes note that a formal presentation and remarks were given to Mr. Daye in recognition of his service.