AKRON, Ohio– The city of Akron has officially sworn in its first new elected mayor in nearly three decades.
Daniel Horrigan took the oath of office on New Year’s Day in front of a crowded room at Graystone Hall promising inclusion and opportunities for growth and prosperity.
“I stand before you with a strong belief that our city is on the verge of a renaissance and at a time when we can create stronger and more stable neighborhoods vibrant places and spaces in an economy that is sufficiently inclusive and one that lifts everyone up,” Horrigan said.
“Akron is at a crossroads and you have to ask yourself every single day, are you comfortable to simply manage a population decline and its impact? Or are we prepared to make that commitment today right here, you and I, that we believe Akron is poised to innovate and grow, and we are talking about nothing less than a transformation of government?” he added.
Horrigan’s vision for the city includes having a closer relationship with neighboring communities and strengthening neighborhoods.
“As we innovate and grow and push ourselves to create a more vibrant community, it is equally as important to acknowledge reality. There are neighborhoods within Akron that are not, and quite frankly have not, seen the growth and prosperity in recent times,” said the new mayor.
Horrigan, a Democrat, was elected following a political whirlwind at Akron City Hall that started with the unexpected resignation of long-time mayor Don Plusquellic in 2015.
Council President Garry Moneypenny was appointed the successor, but also resigned shortly after he took office facing accusations of inappropriate interaction with a female city employee.
Councilman Jeff Fusco replaced Moneypenny and was on the stage to literally hand over the keys to the mayor’s office to Horrigan on Friday.
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Article Courtesy of WJW Fox 8 News Cleveland
Picture Courtesy of Getty Images
