
Mayor Tom Butt and Councilmember Eduardo Martinez, who both won re-election in November, and new councilmembers Nathaniel “Nat” Bates and Demnlus Johnson III were sworn in Tuesday, Jan. 8 in the Richmond City Council Chambers.
City Clerk Pamela Christian administered the oath of office and presented to them the Certificates of Election.
Butt welcomed the standing-room-only crowd to the ceremony and made the introductions followed by the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. The invocation was provided by Pastor Mark Sharpe of the Southside Church of Christ.
Butt and Vice Mayor Melvin Willis, councilmembers Ben Choi, Eduardo Martinez, and Jael Myrick offered their best wishes to departing councilmembers.
Butt also presented service awards to departing councilmembers Jovanka Beckles and Ada Recinos, each of whom made comments.
Closing remarks came from City Manager Carlos Martinez and Mayor Tom Butt. A reception immediately followed the ceremony