Assemblymember Isadore Hall (52nd District, Compton) delivers the swearing-in remarks to new 9th Ditrict City Councilmember Steven Neal. Hall referenced a quote by Abraham Lincoln: “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” Photos by Ryan ZumMallen
10:00am | Several returning City officials – and a few new ones, too – were sworn into their terms during last night’s Long Beach City Council meeting.
Two freshmen councilmembers and five other returning city officials participated in the swearing-in ceremony last night. Councilman Gary DeLong is on vacation and was sworn in privately last week.
All thanked their supporters and families and acknowledged that there are challenges ahead, but expressed optimism. New 7th District Councilmember James Johnson took the opportunity to announce his first official act; providing storage space for the Daisy Lane Christmas Parade, a long tradition in the Wrigley neighborhood on the west side of town.
New 9th District Councilmember Steven Neal joined Johnson and City Prosecutor Doug Haubert as the only other new face, and individually thanked every one of his many family members in attendance and took a moment to thank his opponent, Val Lerch, who reached out to assist Neal in a move that Neal said was surprising but appreciated.
Robert Garcia (1st) and Gerrie Schipske (5th) were each sworn into new terms on the City Council, as well. Garcia had served more than one year after winning a special election, but will now begin his first four-year term. Schipske enters her second full four-year term after defeating opponent Mike Hedges in April. Mayor Bob Foster, City Attorney Robert Shannon and City Auditor Laura Doud also renewed their pledge to serve.
Mayor Bob Foster delivers his acceptance remarks.
City Attorney Robert Shannon is sworn in by his brother for a fourth term.
Former Governor of California George Deukmejian delivers swearing-in remarks for City Auditor Laura Doud.
City Prosecutor Doug Haubert addresses the audience.
Councilmember Robert Garcia was sworn into his first full term by State Senator Alan Lowenthal.
Councilmember Gerrie Schipske was sworn in by her partner of more than 30 years, Flo.
New 7th District Councilmember James Johnson is sworn in by current City Auditor – and Johnson’s former boss – Laura Doud.
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