As Fulton ushered in the new year on January 1st, 2024, the city also embraced a new administration during the Inaugural Common Council Meeting. The proceedings commenced as Wesley Smith led the attendees in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. The highlight of the event was the swearing-in of Mayor James Rice for his first term, along with the introduction of the Common Council members who will serve alongside him.
The newly formed administration consists of Mayor James Rice, First Ward Councilor Michael Farnham (absent from the meeting), Second Ward Councilor Douglas Chapman, Third Ward Councilor Donald Patrick Jr., Fourth Ward Councilor Jeffery Cobb, Fifth Ward Councilor Audrey Avery, and Sixth Ward Councilor Ryan Taylor. Mayor Rice, in his Welcome Address, outlined his vision and plans for the city of Fulton, focusing on a renewed energy to move the DRI (Downtown Revitalization Initiative) Grants forward. He also is planning on a once-a-month public forum to encourage public participation in its local Government. The Mayor also set up a mentorship program with the new and veteran councilors. This will help guide the new Councilors on the processes and procedures for the city charter and codes.
A crucial decision was made during the council meeting as Mr. Patrick was elected as the Common Council president. In his address, Mr. Patrick emphasized the council’s commitment to progress, highlighting his specific focus on advancing the DRI grants. Notably, a new DRI Decision-Making Committee was proposed, aiming to streamline the decision-making process for these grants. However, this proposal faced a temporary setback as Councilor Cobb requested more information before casting his vote, leading to the item being tabled for further discussion.
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