Three Richmond city councilmembers sworn in, outline agendas for city’s future

Richmond welcomed three city council members to office Tuesday evening in a ceremony marked by an appreciation for outgoing councilmembers and plans to tackle issues from economic growth to environmental justice.

The swearing-in ceremony began at 5 p.m., with Mayor Eduardo Martinez welcoming attendees and acknowledging the contributions of departing councilmembers Gayle McLaughlin and Melvin Willis. Pastor Eric Morris of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church delivered the invocation, and outgoing councilmembers received service awards and proclamations.

Councilmember Gayle McLaughlin, a former Richmond mayor, reflected on her time on the council and expressed gratitude to her supporters during her farewell address at the city council meeting.

McLaughlin thanked her husband, Paul Kilkenny, for his support and campaign manager, Juan Reardon, for his role in her campaigns and the progressive movement.

“It was Juan and Kay, his wife, that helped jump-start this whole 21st-century progressive movement in their living room back in 2003,” McLaughlin said. “Their help throughout the years has been invaluable. This has been a long and productive journey over many years, and we have accomplished so much together.”

McLaughlin said her accomplishments on the council included reversing a $35 million deficit in 2005, raising the minimum wage, and securing a $550 million tax settlement from Chevron. 

“We have shown collectively that progressive values, not only through RPA (Richmond Progressive Alliance) but also through the broader progressive movement, can indeed transform communities, municipalities, and the world itself,” McLaughlin said.

McLaughlin also cited recent accomplishments under her leadership, such as two years ago, reducing homicides to their lowest levels in 50 years and establishing initiatives like the Youth Tiny Village, a new farmers market, and a regional wildfire coalition. 

Melvin Willis expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve on the Richmond City Council and acknowledged his colleagues for their shared commitment to the city.

“I know for certain about every member of this council, you all truly love the City of Richmond,” Willis said. “You want to see it uplifted. You want our communities to have the resources that they need and make sure that community members voices are at the forefront of those conversations.”

City Clerk Pamela Christian administered the oaths of office to Dr. Jamelia Brown (District 1), Sue Wilson (District 5), and Claudia Jimenez (District 6) during a ceremony at the Richmond City Council Chambers. Jimenez’s daughter Alicia, dressed similarly to her mother, read the oath in Spanish.

New councilmembers share their vision

Dr. Jamelia Brown spoke to a council chamber filled with enthusiastic supporters as the newly elected city councilmember for District 1 expressed her commitment to addressing the pressing concerns raised by residents during her campaign.

“I am truly honored to serve in this capacity, and I look forward to strengthening the relationships with the council, the city staff, and Richmond residents,” Brown said. “Together, we will work to build a brighter, more prosperous future for our communities. I know we will achieve great things, and I am excited about what lies ahead.”

Sue Wilson, representing District 5, said Richmond is the coolest city in the Bay Area, and if you don’t live here, you’re missing out. She highlighted the progress made under the previous council, particularly in environmental health and affordable housing, and thanked her family, friends, and campaign team for their encouragement and assistance. She praised departing members McLaughlin and Willis for advancing environmental health and affordable housing.

Wilson pledged to work for all Richmond residents, not just those in her district and highlighted the importance of long-term planning for the city’s future. 

“We also have to think about the future, what the next generation of Richmond will wish that we did with the time that we have now,” Wilson said. “They say the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, and the second best time is today. “I look forward to working with my colleagues here on the city council and with all of you in the community to plant a lot of these metaphorical trees, but also literal trees that our children and grandchildren can enjoy. 

Claudia Jimenez, re-elected to District 6, celebrated her re-election as Richmond’s District 6 City Councilmember with a speech emphasizing her commitment to environmental justice, public safety, and equitable representation. Speaking first in English and then in Spanish, highlighting her victory with nearly 62 percent of the vote.

“The election results show clearly that residents want leaders who continue to advocate for safer streets, improved public services, and a greener, more inclusive community,” she said. “That residents want leadership that continues to advocate for improving services for youth, seniors and families.”

Jimenez acknowledged the support of grassroots organizations and labor unions, including the Richmond Progressive Alliance and SEIU Local 1021, and pledged to keep fighting for policies that protect Richmond’s vulnerable populations. 

“I am committed to supporting our immigrant community, particularly our undocumented brothers and sisters, so everyone, despite immigration status, has a voice in their council, feels represented, and feels safe in our community,” Jimenez said. “This means strengthening the city’s sanctuary policy and other policies.”

A Community Celebration

Following the ceremony, a reception was held at the Richmond Memorial Auditorium, allowing attendees to engage with the newly sworn-in council members and celebrate their shared vision for the city.

The council’s priorities for the term include addressing economic disparities, promoting environmental sustainability, and ensuring responsible use of public funds. With a mix of new energy and seasoned leadership, Richmond is poised to tackle its challenges and opportunities.

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