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New Cleveland council members sworn in; Buckley named mayor pro tem
Summary
Council members Brent McWaters, Desiree David, Rachel Hall and Dr. Tanya Clark were sworn in; the council also confirmed Julius Buckley as mayor pro tem and approved routine items including a fireworks contract and capital carryovers.
The Cleveland City Council swore in newly elected and returning members and completed several early-agenda housekeeping items during its May 19, 2026 meeting.
Mayor Danny Lee administered oaths of office for council position 3 (Brent McWaters), position 4 (Desiree David), position 5 (Rachel Hall) and position 6 (Dr. Tanya Clark). The mayor presented certificates of election signed by City Secretary Juanita Lamone. Each newly sworn member received brief welcoming remarks; Dr. Clark thanked residents for the opportunity to serve.
On routine business, the council approved the consent agenda (with item 3 removed), then approved the annual fireworks display contract (item 3) after a short discussion about scheduling and vendor availability. Councilwoman Rachel Hall moved to approve the fireworks show (historically held on July 3 to allow staff participation), and the motion carried 7'to'0.
The council also appointed Julius Buckley to continue as mayor pro tem by unanimous vote. Additional routine approvals included fiscal year 2025 capital carryovers and a resolution establishing a health benefits trust that will allow the city to receive a medical-premium tax credit; both measures passed 7'to'0.
Mayor Lee and multiple council members acknowledged staff achievements, including HR director Angela Valdez's statewide awards and several public-safety service anniversaries.
The meeting then moved into department reports and ordinance items on the published agenda.
