New Lexington mayor, council members sworn in
{Kassaundra Shanette Lockhart/Davidson Local}
A new era has commenced in Lexington. Before a standing room only crowd at Monday evening’s city council meeting, two administrations intertwined as one finalized its tenure and the other began. Banging his gavel for the last time, former Lexington Mayor Newell Clark vacated his center seat as the city’s newest mayor, Jason Hayes, prepared to occupy it.
Accompanied by approximately 20 family members, Hayes was administered the oath of office by City Clerk Emily Michael. Additionally, three new and one previous council member took their oaths as well: Dr. Keith Curry (Ward 1), Jim Myers (Ward 2), Matt Welborn (Ward 3) and John Burke (Ward 4). At-large councilor Joe Watkins was voted (by his fellow councilors) to serve as Mayor Pro Tem. They were surrounded by their families while they took their oaths.
{Kassaundra Shanette Lockhart/Davidson Local}
Prior to the “changing of the guard,” a video of the outgoing council members sharing their thoughts about their years of service and council accomplishments was shown. Wayne Alley shared he felt the acquisition of the land in the Depot District was the most important achievement. Linwood Bunce agreed saying it made him the proudest. He also highlighted the city receiving a $25 million grant to build the train depot and said the hiring of Terra Greene as the first female city manager was the most defining moment.
Tobin Shepherd chose the removal of the Confederate statue at The Square as his proudest accomplishment calling it “the right thing to do.” Donald Holt, Sr. highlighted the council’scommitment to improving the quality of life for citizens through the “Re-Creation of Recreation” plan.
The former councilors provided words of wisdom to the incoming council. Alley encouraged them to always think in the long-term and to build the depot. Holt challenged them to “remember it’s all about the people” and to stay humble.
As a tribute to Clark, local business owners and colleagues, via video, praised him for his 10-year term as mayor. At the end of the prerecording, Clark stated, “Thank you for allowing me to serve. It’s been an honor every day.”
After the transition, Hayes offered up thanks to the former mayor and council members. Then, he conducted his first city council meeting. Business conducted included:
A public hearing regarding petition for Voluntary Contiguous Annexation of 28.089 acres along US Highway 64 owned by Davidson Land Development.
Resolution authorizing or rejecting the final high bid and sale of real property located at 119 East Hemstead St. The bid was rejected by a 6-1 vote.
Presentation by Lexington Police Department Chief Robby Rummage about a pilot program the department was chosen for called Educating Kids on Guns and Gangs (EKG2)
Will be partnering with Lexington City Schools to administer the discussions in health education classes
Targets 7th through 9th grade students
The program teaches about choices. It’ll focus on prevention through education, strengthening relationships with youth and showing the LPD is more than enforcers, they care.
National Night Out - Tuesday, August 2 from 6-9 p.m.
Locations: Washington Park, Green Needles Park, Grimes Park and Light of the World Church
Health Equity Conference - Friday, August 12 (11 a.m.-4 p.m.) and Saturday, August 13 (9 a.m.-2 p.m.)
All photos by Kassaundra Shanette Lockhart for Davidson Local.
*Editor’s note: Former Councilor Linwood Bunce and Councilor Frank Callicutt weren’t in attendance.
