City Council

>> Happy New Year. If this is such a beautiful sight to see you and to be seen. Welcome to the city of Saint Petersburg's 2025 swearing in ceremony Wellstone. >> And before we get started being in a place of policy in in in protocol. We do have some elected officials that are here today that I would like to acknowledge in the 5 new city once I'm going to ask you to please stand in who I have listed is the honorable. Charlie Garrett is where you honorable Charlie Garrett is former City Council member we're talking to somebody is the outside somewhere talk it. And we have a representative Lindsay cross. When Ellis County commissioner Bryan Scott. The honorable and might near couldn't stay away could be. The honorable Leslie waters. Representative Bernie Jacques. And I MISS Anyone. I did good. There's Charlie Gracie was outside talking. I get my mother. So with that being said again I want to welcome you to today's swearing-in and this is where we transition out with the old and in with the new when we're looking so excited for all of the new accomplishments. That we have yet to get done for the beautiful city of St. Petersburg and we're going to go ahead and start and I'm going to ask the council members that we're going to go down. One at a time and we're going to do council member. The company Garrett is the district one 1st and joining us is judge Pamela Campbell, who will be administrating the oath of office councilmember occurs. We get a little higher with a bit. >> Do solemnly swear from it is safe. That I am a citizen of the city of St. Petersburg Florida. The state of Florida. And the United States of America. It hasn't. That as an officer of the city of St. Petersburg into the city. And a recipient of public funds. The point. I will support protect and defend. The Constitution and government. The United States instead, and the state of Florida do that I am duly qualified to hold office. Under the charter of the city in the Constitution and the Constitution of the state. And that I will faithfully and that I will faithfully perform the duties. Of the duties of office City Council member. Of City Council member district one of the city of the city of St. Petersburg Florida with China which I am now about to enter. >> Next to have district 3 MISTER Mike Carney. >> In addition. If you solemnly swear and affirm that and so the son of the city of St. Louis. I am a citizen of the city of St. Petersburg state of Florida and the United States and the United States of America. For the city, it's the years and as an officer of the city of St. Petersburg and the city. And our Savannah public funds. What. Protect and defend the Constitution. The Constitution and government. The United States of the United States. In the state of Florida and 2.5 and I am duly qualified to hold office and that her mother. Under the charter of the city with tuition of the state. And the Constitution of the and faithfully perform the duties of the Office of City Council member district and perform that work. We performed that duty and faithfully perform the duties of the Office of City Council members of the Office of City Council member district 3 district 3 of the city of Saint Peter's of the city of St. Petersburg Florida. Reach him which I am now about to enter back to thank you so much. >> Now I'm going to call myself. He gets sworn in and I'm also going to take a point of privilege to has not only my family who I am joined by my husband, my Mommy, my granddaughter and my son. But if you played any role in my life. Any role in getting the year any role to help me get back to this position and supporting me I need you to come up with me as well. >> a fire chief here. >> It. And if all the time on the ice West. Yeah. When to worry for me. All right Deborah big Sanders. It's telling you where and for that I'm a citizen. I'm a citizen of the city of St. Petersburg state of Florida. The state of Florida United States. And United States of America. It has an officer of the city of St. Petersburg we stick to it. And the city and the public. We'll support. I will support protect and defend. Bush and the 7 the Constitution of the government when the United States state of Florida in the state of Florida. And when we do qualify. And I am duly qualified to hold office to try to in under the charter of the city to shun just and the cost. If you do that I will faithfully perform the duties. Of the Office of City Council member. I just run by the city of the future of the city of St. Petersburg for them. And which I am now about. And to make sure that the time frame. >> whew. And last but not least district 7. Corey Givens. I court Givens junior. The solemn we swear or affirm. That I am a citizen of the city of St. Petersburg the state of Florida. And the United States of America. As an officer of the city of St. Petersburg. And a recipient of public funds. I will support protect and defend. The Constitution government. Of the United States. But I am duly qualified to hold office. Under the charter of the city. And the Constitution of the state. But I will faithfully follow. The duties of the Office of City Council member district 7. And of the city of St. Petersburg Florida. On which I am now about to enter. >> uk where we are going to say congratulations once again to our new and our re elected council members and we would now like to Cano we still given some homes, we're still giving has. What we would now like to call to order the Jan. Second 2025 City Council meeting beginning with the roll call please Curtis you're ever hear parting there and what's your bigs Anders here this cool air here in here. >> Thank you so much. We are joined by Bishop America's Robert Lynch from the diocese of St. Petersburg who will provide the invocation what our chair you late Coakley gorgeous we like to say a few words about. Ok so we're going to go ahead and thank you Bishop for being here and after the invocation I want you to join me in the pledge of allegiance following it would you please join me by standing. Let us pray. GOD our father. You can ride everything in wisdom and in love. Except the prayers, we offer now for our city. And for those who will guide and lead it. In your goodness watch over those in authority. So that people throughout this city MAY enjoy freedom. Security and peace. Finally father shower this Council. With the rays of and patients. We ask this through Christ our Lord Amen. I might note that raise of wisdom and patients is a prayerful pun. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag. It's a chance a nation under GOD, it is cool with every says. >> Jerry let go girders. Thank you MADAM Chair I just wanted to personally thank Bishop Lynch for coming out this morning. I have known Bishop since I was 11 years old and his installation mass welcoming him to the diocese of St. Petersburg was my first solo in front of a very large crowd. They weren't there for me they were there for him and my knees were knocking so hard I'm pretty sure people thought they needed to answer the door that day. But I have had the pleasure the. The privilege and the pleasure of seeing a lot of masses for for Bishop Lynch and alter serving, and he has been a part of the girl's family for a really really long time and I'm just very blessed to have a great relationship with Bishop Lynch an even more blessed that you came this morning and shared with a special. Thank you. Thank you. >> I didn't know what you're saying. Ok what we learned something else thank you. Joining us. Now is our mayor mayor Kenneth t well happy New Year MAY. >> Good morning, MADAM Chair members of City Council rcp team in all of our safety residents, it's great to see you and I do kind of a blessing even though he had lead to see the ship which again what a blessing to our community. As we celebrate a new year I'd like to first thank Council. For your collaboration for your hard work. During a challenging if I can use that word and impactful but very productive in 2020. 2024. And arm in a straight of team and I look forward to continuing that important work with you. This year. Congratulations to chair fix Sanders and vice chair Gurney's on your reelection. And 2 council members Harding and Givens thank you for committing yourself to this very important public service and thank you to your families as well as we all know even through a campaign when you are in public service, your entire families in public service with the so thank you too. Our family news as well. So MADAM Chair, I'd like to recognize 2 of our outgoing colleagues, the first didn't want the recognition but I'm gonna veto that the first time I exercise a veto and but and I know you're going to recognize her but Cindy Shepard. >> Your way on the other side, so you can stop the sun. As our City Council administrative officer really has been vital to keeping it. The trains running on time. And I know Council has some words for her but from the administration side. I want to thank you for your service for making sure that. The people of Saint Pete remain the priority and keeping the council and the administration on the same page moving forward so thank you so much Sun. For your service. >> I also like to recognize are out doing district 7 council member brother John for the job. Council member Mohammed has served our community for many years so we are. And I. Amen to that and I want to thank you for stepping up to represent district 7 and a time of need and we look forward to your continued service in our community I would like to present you from the mayor's office. That sting which service award. And it reads presented to the honorable John Muhammad member City Council district 7. 2022 through 2025 in recognition of your leadership and advocacy reflecting your commitment to our beloved city. In district 7. Thank you for your service and dedication as a distinguished member of St. Petersburg City Council. Thank you so much. >> Thank you mayor Welsh and also on behalf of City Council City Council would also like to recognize the service of outgoing councilmember brother John Muhammad and doing so is chair fix Sanders. Oh yeah on but wait there's more the way this war. So this moment brings mean quite an honor because it's personal. This is personal. During a time when we needed someone to stand up. Be willing to learn be willing to make a difference. And to feel what was such an unwelcoming moment. You still handled it. When we put our support behind you. That was what we intended to do it wasn't by chance. And we appreciate the fact that you have been here. You didn't just start when you sat on the dice. And we're looking for you to continue. Leaving dies we need so much more this week. And as you see it's completely different on this side and it easily hearing. Some fully different on that side. But a lot of the things that we get done we get down because of people like you. That are out there on the ground that have that lived experience. You know, I mean you you know, I'm not afraid of the mic and I want to make sure that we continue to get things done for our constituents. You know there's a right here is the wrong way to do anything. And you've learned how to when uber those pieces to get it done. So when we ask you to step in and step apd so I know to supposed to be from Council before me right now this is for me because I know what it took for you to join the group noted at new know what it meant for you to come in and want to play this role and is not for the weak of heart and so I want to thank you and as chair on behalf of City Council that I got my stuff led to the cup. We want to thank you again for stepping on and continue to show those out there that we need them that we should have to look for people to want to serve because there's so much that we have yet to do. You are that example. You with an example and we thank you for that we can't do anything. >> a man. I didn't prepare anything. In just a minute to collect myself. MADAM Vice chair members of Council mayor well city staff residents and stakeholders of the city of Saint Pete. It is my sincere prayer that that's peace and blessings be with us all in this new year. As we've seen in years past the year MAY start off happy. But in a moment's notice everything can change. If GOD's peace is with us we can rest assured and know that whatever trial tribulation will challenge comes our way. As I reflected on this moment and I've done so many times. About Jan. 2nd. Woke up this morning and thought games. Today's the day. I thought about what I was seeing what I want my last words as to how the council and with a b. So here's what we landed. First I wanted to try and keep it in 3 minutes. Because that's the time that we give to the public to speak. And I want to honor that. But I knew it was impossible to do that in this moment. So then I said I'll try and do it in 7. Because at the time that we give the council member of the speech. True to Council fascist sometimes when the buzzer go off we just keep going. And continue until we get it over, but I won't belabor so in the end I just decided to let the chips fall where they MAY. And say what's really on my heart and mind in this moment. While also being considered in knowing that we have many other platforms and many other opportunities to address the public. So I won't try and see it all today. So with that in mind I start with gratitude and appreciation I want to thank my wife who has been by my side for over 30 years now and were it not for her support and her permission. I know I wouldn't have taken this route and would not be here. Her steadfast support prayers patient perseverance grace mercy silent power say patience perseverance. I have never waiver and I'm truly grateful for that. Also like to thank my colleagues on Council. Specifically those who voted to appoint me to this body over 812 days ago, not that I'm counting on anything. And those who didn't because we built a bond as a council and as a team that I think really has impacted the city in a positive way. Appreciate your vote of confidence and I can only pray that you don't have too many regrets. Well, I know that some second thoughts were inevitable. 2 out of district 7 legislative aide didn't see him we usually don't see him appear. Jc Pritchett who's under the leadership of Cindy Shepard who's done an amazing job. I want to let you know to see that I appreciate you my brother and looking forward to manifesting all the good that we see. And we discussed so that I can look back and say I remember when. Then here recognizing those in the room, but I want to thank commissioner, Rene flowers. She spent a lot of time and political capital in her advocacy to support my appointment to this body. And it MAY have strings some of her personal and professional relationships in doing so and I'm truly grateful for all that she did to support me being here. There are many who supported me prior to and during my own Tom want Council. And it's been just 7 minutes naming them all, but I don't intend to do that. And every time I look I think about it. Heard call the question was it was when I was making a speech or presentation and I would call a It really showed up in this will. Talk about lessons learned. So I say it like this most of the people who helped me and support me didn't do it in their own names on their own accord. They did it in the name of a causal a mission on initiative that was bigger than themselves. And so in the name of GOD and I thank them and I think got I'm thanking him for them because I know that he that allowed it what caused you to join me and to contribute to our work together. How we looking at a time. Lastly on to council member elect councilmember not Corey give is Julia. I have with me. I don't want to give it to you. I talked to a few people about it. And some actually advised me to hold on to it. This week they said hold on to it and wait for you to grow a little more. And I seriously thought about that. But then I realized that this but time does not belong to me. So I can hold it. That's not a sign of a symbol of a personal endorsement will support any of those things but I do support you in your journey. What this but I represent says the hopes the dreams desires and aspirations. The confidence and the trust that our residents placed in me when I was appointed and now in you after being elected. So for me to hold on to this, but I would be a grave injustice. And with continue perpetuation of some of my issue that I have with the status quo. We've given the community trust that we have to when we reach the end of our turn being able to recognize time has passed and that the next generation is ready and willing to accept. What is my prayer that you will on of distrust by making sure that your thoughts these and actions lineup on the side of truth, fairness equity and positive impact. I pray we're leaving another light on the torch because that's another thing some time to pass the torch and in the light on the right. I prayed it will leaving enough light on this story for you to be able to see your way through as you lead others and grow into this new final rule and responsibility. I grew up in the Baptist truthfully I noticed this is really only the first We have some big decisions to make ahead as a city and I pray that you all would not only follow your heads. Follow your hearts. As I've come to see that you absolutely will do. My time in office has shown us anything I would like for it to be a demonstration. But you don't have to compromise your convictions in order to show compassion Our good morals on manifested in our good manners and then we we treat one another. I'm looking forward to returning to life as a private citizen and continuing to work with you all that we've started the making a public impact. And in the words of the great. That's all I got to say about >> Announce a member Gabbert MADAM Chair. For a few more moments to just wanted to say to you John from the bottom of my heart. Thank you. Thank you for being willing to step up for being willing to serve. >> I. I have known you for many years and I know the man you are and that is why I supported to for the appointment and I have never ever for a moment, regretted that decision. You carry yourself in a way through everything through the good through the bad controversy. You carry yourself true to who you are every single day. Every single step and that is a part of someone's character that you can't fake it just is who you are. And you know when you serve him in public service and people have a lot to say about your right and they think that they know who you are they think that they have an idea of who you are and. Then sometimes you read these things that people say about you and they don't match up with who you know you really are who you know your colleague is right. And many times. I have heard people say things and I thought that is not the man, I know that is not the man that stands before us every day and leads the city as part of this body. And you continue to move forward you continue to do it with integrity because at the end of the day, I know it was important to you to leave here. The same person if not better, then how you came and you have done that and I think what you just did with councilmember Givens now passing that baton that right there is just such a symbolism of who you are. You are a role model you are a leader in this community. And I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart not only for your friendship. But for who you are and what you have brought to the table thankful for your family and the sacrifice, I know it's been your wife watching you go through this experience and so I just want to thank her for her sacrifice as well. The day you called me and told me that you are not going to seek re-election I was brokenhearted but at the same time I had to think he's doing this because he knows that there is another path. Yeah and you will never stop serving the city and so I just want to thank you. Thank you for my family. Thank you from me for who you are and what you have done for us, I love you. Councilmember Floyd thank you. I'm just going to tell a little story real quick. When I first move to St. I was. >> To say like eager to get involved and and that some people around town and got you know active in the advocating for issues that you know you see me up here advocating for all the time and I would say like to people that I met you know where should I go to learn about our city who should I meet and a name that came up constantly in every single conversation was brother John. And I went to a a feeling is a huge deal for Saint Pete meeting I think it was a p Tech. I don't know if this was the first time we had matter just one of the first times ands just started learning about our Ands it was incredibly beneficial to me to hear from people who had been around the block and know exactly what's going on. And. I don't think I'd be here today without being able to get connected to the right people and you were definitely a key part of. I myself growing as an activist in the city and so I'm really grateful for it. And because of that I know that im going to be very long before us eu outs in the streets or in here again honestly please don't come to the next council meeting I know you're not going no you probably want some time off but like yeah, I know you need a little bit of time to. On line from this because it's a unique challenge. And I saw you struggle with that of times and thrive in it at times and I know that your role in the community is like. Almost as impactful if not more impactful than you you being up here with us. So I'm really grateful for Grateful for everything we went through up here everything went through before and everything will go through after so thank you so much for your service. >> And once well known by Syrian wins at the chair. Council member Mohammed we met so many years ago and I still remember same thing as councilmember Floyd said your work in the community. Then through your time and City Council and I know you're going to continue the same service to our community. The dedication that you have shown through your time here to me is remarkable your honesty, your integrity and I will tell you even when we disagree I always appreciated how I knew that what you are saying and how you felt was coming from the heart. Never had issue with that and I know we had some spirited debates we had some serious issues come through. This ties, the last 3 years and we had some tough votes. But you through it all. And honestly a great representative for your community and I thank you for your service and it's been a joy in an honor to serve you and thank you so much. I'm sorry to see you leave. But I think. You know that there's been talk of the decisions that we've made over the last 3 years but but I really want to focus on 2 quick things that I think goes under the radar. More and more as those to grow up. I try to look of the lens of of kids right, I mean you hear me kindergarten if you know me right and so but 2 things that I think I hope. The willingness to raise your hand to put it on the line. Whether it's an appointment whether it's an election it doesn't matter because you're going to get punched in the face. Then you're going to get high fives, right it's like this. It's like this total emotional garbage bag. Given to you once you do that right and so. But what I want my kids to see is you shouldn't be afraid to raise your hand. Yeah that's the first. The second one set and that was the beginning of the spectrum. The end of the spectrum is you choosing not to rerun. Knowing where is my happy place where do I served best. That's important. You could have re ran. >> That wasn't the calling. That wasn't a calling. Listening to the call. >> I want my kids to know that just because you're in a lane, doesn't mean you have to stay there. They you're allowed to change course and you should if it's not your call. You know I I was at an event on Mon. And I got asked actually my dad got asked whisk hopefully going to be a priest and I was this far. I had the plane ticket. And it's a good thing I didn't because that wasn't my calling. Now that's easier to say without Bishop Lynch and here. Yeah. That was my that's my call. It's okay to change things and I think that's 2 things that go under the radar with your time here that I hope I hope I could see I hope every kid in the city of St. Petersburg season by the way all the adults to cause. I think any too late, you know change lanes right so I appreciate the service man it's been a pleasure. Thank you thank you, thank you. Council member driskell thank you And thank you to my colleagues have spoken so far echo many of the sentiments like some of the others we met. Long before you joined us on the dias here and you really showed me a lot about they foundational issues that we needed to address in order to create a new deal for Saint Pete. I haven't seen you working in the community working in with your neighborhood I knew that you understood neighborhoods and. Was going to help move us forward. Especially in neighborhoods that had not receive the attention they deserve. That background. I had a real appreciation for the service that you showed once you are on City Council and no matter how you voted no matter. What you stood 4. We knew that it was with integrity. And I think that's something that everyone can learn from no matter what you believe no matter where you stand. If you do with integrity always be respected and I have the utmost respect for you for carrying out these duties in that rate in that way. I have enjoyed working with you and I know that as you continue on. And back to you this path. You're going to do it with. With a stronger stride because of the experience that you gained from here from being in City Hall from being on City Council and I hope that that experience is going to have to take you to to newer Heights with your work out in the community because that's going to be good for St. Petersburg. I look forward to seeing what you do next night look forward to finally going back to having conversations with you and about about the issues and how we can work together to continue serving Saint Pete. Thank you just quickly to councilmember Givens that the time means a lot and I have absolute confidence that you're going to be able to run with it. And we've got some Sen, big shoes to fill but I know you brought your own shoes too. So I look forward to working with you and continuing this work together for our city. All the best two-year for. Now some of the Givens thank you so much. But John this means the world to me. Councilmember Floyd Matt you about 15 years ago. I was fresh out of college and I was looking for a way to get involved a way to give back in you and brother jabar you gave me that opportunity. I remember meetings at the seiu office impede take. We went up to bat. You took a lot of heat. When we went up today we actually went up to bat for this seat. Both of us apply to be appointed to this seat and I was happy to throw my support behind you at that diets. You Sir are a true statesman. You have shown us what integrity means you've shown us what it means to be true self. To collaborate but not compromise. You taught me that you have been the Paul tonight, Timothy and I thank you for that. I thank you for the mentor ship for the leadership for the 2 lives that you have given me. I know I'm taller than you. >> That begins to the news. So you leave some huge shoes to fill as council member driskell said. But I am I'm quite confident that ubiquity well enough to serve so thank you so much GOD bless you. >> Thank you so seeing no further requests to speak, I game on them in a sermon of how appreciative I am of you and your service in you know, and again for those that didn't understand councilmember just goes comment when we're on the dias we can talk to each other when we're not on the dias so we can get a date that heart to heart goes one-on-one have those conversations about things that we know our community needs and when I hear your community always together this our community because everything we do we do citywide we do for everyone that lives here works he a place here who calls this place home. So thank you It for all that you've done and best wishes to you and your family and we know will be senior around. Like the like the Grammys. >> This is the moment we've all been waiting for. X we would declare the election of the City Council chair and vice chair and I entertain a cannot come from I'd share our chair laden are vice chair legs are the current chair, so Alan Turner to entertain a motion to declare the election of our City Council chair and vice chair move approval, second. Having of improperly motion in second in can you please open the machine for voting. >> Now that are present council members have voted can you please town announced the to chair the motion passes unanimously. >> Now we're going to ask our new chair to go and be sworn in. >> Do you solemnly swear. That I'm a citizen of the city of St. Petersburg the state of Florida. And the United States of America. That as an officer of the city of St. Petersburg. And recipient of public funds. I will support protect and defend. Constitution and government. The United States. And the state of Florida. That I am duly qualified to hold office. Under the charter of the city. And the Constitution of the state. That I will faithfully perform the duties. The Office of chair of City Council. Of the city of St. Petersburg Florida. On which I am now about to enter. To the mission. >> I will say hand with it is only where this where the firm. >> It is in the city. And I am a citizen of the city of St. Petersburg the state of Florida. The United States of America. That is an officer of the city of St. Petersburg. The Constitution and government. The United States and the state of Florida. And I'm Julie followed by to hold him. And the charter of the city. And the Constitution of the state. And that I will faithfully perform the duties of the The Office of vice chair of City Council in recent years of the city of St. Petersburg Florida. Of which I'm about now to >> So you get elected chair and then I got to come immediately to the podium so listen, let's set it in charge. And just quickly wanted to bring down sheriff, Rick Sanders. You know I think it's been said throughout the entire morning. So far about all the things that have happened this year and you've led us through them. And I don't think any of us are going to forget some of those moments. You always have trying times right during year doesn't matter I mean you could go back to every year and find them. But we certainly had some defining ones this year. Too big girls that came through and mess with our city. It just it's an amazing thing and then some of the bigger decisions mean obviously historic gas plant and all of the things surrounding that and all of the small ones to you know when I when I first ran one of the best pieces of advice. I got was make sure you read the consent agenda. And because it's where all the little men who she is right so all the small things that add up to all the big things. And I'm just so appreciative not only for your leadership, but for your friendship. I think one of the things that I look forward to most was I know I was going to get a Ray of sunshine from chair fix Sanders during a meeting and sometimes on those trying and that makes all the difference. Just the ability to smile. And a smile that somebody else. And I'm just thankful that I get I get those smiles and so on behalf of all of City Council we had some gavel issues this year too. You know those are some of the probably the small stuff that people don't see but we had some gavel issues but on behalf of City Council want to present for your for your leadership and dedication this year a share and a big heartfelt. Thank you from me. So I again I want to thank my colleagues. >> Because we did all of this together there is not just one vote. There's 8 of us. And yes, 2020 young people get about Debbie Debbie came in early tended to be for good I can get there because that's right. So I never forget about that but even throughout the year. As chair. You on notice we can make motions there's so much that we can and we cannot do. But the one thing that I was always consistent about always grateful for is my faith and knowing that that to walk and for whom I belong that that's my ok. It was easy to smile knowing. Who all of my accountability. And why I was there. One of my for Harvey's braylon stand of girl. That the world that we're living in Israel. And when we leave that dies. Council members we leave that there because at the drop of a dime our worlds can change when we need that guy is Swiss to human. We're still people we still have to share that same love forgiveness that we are Eat and every day. So for that I'm grateful. That I was unanimously voted it as chair. Because that was a strong sign of confidence from my colleagues to the mayor's office. I think the administration for working with me in as city administrator greatest say giving me grace and getting things done for the city of St. Petersburg cause I don't think I ever called and asked once for myself everything we've always done has been for the city and for the city of St. Petersburg thank you. Keep doing what you're doing to share your comments your recommendations, your Foundation something out to be kind of messy but we need that too we but we need that too but we thank you we're here because we want to be and it has been a journey and I do appreciate each and every one of you and coping together it is a new chair. i knew it was going to be you. He comes from a long line of council members city royalty. And I am just so excited for what he is going to do for our city. I am so excited for you. You know your calmness you know it all the time. But you're going to do great things. Congratulations vice chair hands. Together you guys are going to be the team and I appreciate it. Thank you. You have to wait right there I think some people have some things to say first mayor Welsh. >> Thank you MADAM Vice chair I just wanted to. Again. I can't tell you anymore. Thank council member and ever fix standards and beyond. On the other it goes without saying. >> But you know I've thanked her several times for leadership doing. As public service. But I just want the public to know. Tenacious. You are a share when there's an issue impacting the public. And Council as well but always go with respect. But always with the vision of what's best for the city of St. Petersburg she's on my favorites list on my iPhone so you know what that means even if you put on. They're yeah it started she still comes through. And I just want to thank you for having the heart for public service. In the midst of the storms in the midst of. And telling back to back 13 days apart. Devastation like we've never seen. You are focused on what's best for the city and through political campaigns as well. But I think the results of that show that the people recognize and respect your service to our community. I just want to thank you and your family. For hanging in there they've been doing a difficult time, but iron sharpens iron and I'm blessed to serve with you so thank you so much. Thank you. >> Councilmember gabbard thank you MADAM Vice chair immediate past chair fix Sanders. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your service. And the other day I was going through memories on social media people were posting and of years stuff and someone had posted the Tampa Bay times you know people to watch of 2024. And you were listed. And it. Kind of talked about you know what they thought then a year ago at this time, your year would look like as chair of this Council. They only got it a little right because through everything we've talked about everything that happened in our city. You add on top of that. Your council member you're a chair of City Council. You're running a reelection campaign and you're still taking time for your family and those you love. The support that you have from our community, not only was it exhibited in a landslide victory to get you back here for 4 more years. But it was shown by all the people who stood behind us you were sworn in again today. And I just I had my are you so much I always have but this year has really shown what you are made out of and I look forward to continuing to serve with you. Thank you for being my friend. Thank you for just being who you are I appreciate you. Councilmember Floyd. Former chair. I just want to say real quick. >> You know, whenever I first got here. I really enjoyed how does that describe this a rabble rousing with you a little bit you know a cause and people some headaches I've always really appreciated your willingness to. You know stand up for what's right not really care how people think about it and you did that well your chair, you know in the ways that you saw fit but say you are a very tempered share slightly more tempered than you were before. But I just want to say publicly that you have told me that you're ready to go back to. Causing trouble and so I am a looking forward I wanted to say it out here for everybody so that we all knew what to look forward to and I'm looking forward to coming sitting a little bit closer over here really getting into it with us also I'm grateful for your service and I look forward to everything that is to come. Thank you, we got to count. >> And how could I please blame it not hard to guess because i'm looking at her beautiful face. Yeah, I have to recognize my mom. Guy he's given in she celebrated a recent year of being cancer free. I'm in my husband, Daniel the night Sanders is doing. My baby boy then you Edwards, Sanders. Thank you everybody, thank you >> Thank you again councilmember fix Sanders. Okay so all the ceremony is done for the morning. Closing remarks councilmember gabbard. Well I did not get the chance yet to congratulate everyone that was sworn in today. Councilmember Harding and councilmember Givens welcome to the diocese. Thank you for your willingness to serve and I've known you Cori for years and always seen your commitment to our community and I want to thank you for continuing to be willing to serve. I think you know how difficult it can be yet you're still willing to step up and I appreciate that. So thank you for your willingness to serve councilmember hurting we don't know each other quite as well that we're going to be sitting here next to each other started to get know each other pretty well and I also want to thank you not only for your commitment to serve, but you're committed to the business community that has been shown for years and years and years. >> I think that that is a very important perspective to bring to this tie us and I'm looking forward to your leadership and looking forward to working together on on the Dyess and a new chair. Curtis thank you you had a fantastic year as vice chair you were a great you know right hand to count chair fix Sanders. And you did a phenomenal job in that role and I know that your role here is our chair. You will lead us in a way that will take us forward into what I hope is. >> Hopefully a calmer. And prosperous 2025 and vice chair Hannah it's thank you for the role model that you Sir for this community as well and thank you for your willingness to always stand up stand on what you believe, and never falter on that and I look forward to your leadership as well. Thank you all. >> Well first of all congratulations share I am so excited that we're going to work together. I think everyone that's here. The family and friends that are here today doing something that is really important elections matter and being involved in your community matters and this is where it starts believe it or not a lot happens at City Council and so I feel a lot of children here and it's important that you get them engaged and get them involved early so they understand get him involved in the community because you never know where they end up and the future really is theirs. So I really appreciate everyone's support. That's here the family, I know that this is hard because guess what we all serve here and then we get to go home after a long day of votes. Exhausted. And our children are waiting for a sometimes past that time. We appreciate that and our family and friends. But it's important it's important for our community and the work that we do and the support that you give us is really important. Thank you councilmember Hardin councilmember given for throwing your hat in the ring, I'm looking forward to serving with both of you and you're going to find that their their days are going to be challenging just like when you were running for office. But a lot of days, you're going to find it extremely rewarding what you do here and serving your community and check out in the challenges that come along with it. I think seeing what happened for instance with the Hurricanes. And all the decisions that we have to make to make sure that our community recovers and we have the resources in the future for the next storm. That happens. The next year, whenever that happens. It's critical that we are engaged and involved and plan accordingly I and you're going to be part of that and so everything we do here is going to be in that being to make sure that we have a great city in the future. For many generations to come so thank you all and my colleagues for your support and for just being you I really appreciate each and every one of you and administration, thank you, thank you for everything you do it's been a very challenging year. I know that but you have got to you've been involved with that every step of the way and engage with us and let us know what's happening we really appreciate that so thank you. Thank you. >> First I want to congratulate all who were sworn in a city Council members but those who were re-elected and those who have been elected for the >> I look around this this diets and I see that we have such a such a variety of backgrounds that we in writing experience is that we're bringing to the table and I feel like we we really have City Council that represents the community that we use that we serve. I can't wait to see what we do this year to our new chair and vice chair congratulations and thank you because of the leadership that you have shown in the years that you've been on City Council already I have and just great admiration for you both and a great deal of confidence that you are going to lead us with dignity and integrity and a whole lot of fun along the way. So congratulations to all let's make it a great 2025. Councilmember fix Sanders. Thank you thank you I know. There were going to have a great year and again I want to congratulate each year. There it is and there's nothing wrong with being surrounded by a nominal family and I i count that a blessing. Vice chair hand weights. This is going to be interesting. For all of us to ensure that we support you. And what the mission that we have as a council to get done. But unlike the mayor. You know I had the opportunity to speak in councilmember floor we're reading. We're reading it because there are some things that we want to get done and I'm like to me I'm going veto. I my heart it says whenever you have the opportunity to share. Whenever you have the opportunity to give someone their flowers you do so. Sending did not want to say knowledge or but without her. There would be no us. >> Without sending who died of it before we even had a chance to call and say what do you think about this. It was already done. Cindy Shepard has been my guy the entire time. I've been here. And Cindy year turn today's the last day. There we have a a. And we have to say I have to say. Thank you. >> Cindy might as well just stay there and will let us some council members give some thanks moral support. It. Council members council member Garrett. Quite sure how I'm going to this one. Kleenex boxes too far away. Cindy. From the second. I was elected and came to City Hall like a week later just to check things out right like your brand new you don't know what you know you don't know how you're going to get through it. And there you are like a light. I immediately took to you because I knew if I can figure out how to get close to Cindy I will know how this place works and not only did you teach me how this place works. But there have been many many many times. When the days were long. And maybe the heart wasn't quite in those states. But you were here to say this is important. This is for our city keep doing. What you know is right, keep being who you are and that encourage meant that you have given me over these years. There's no one else that could replace that in my life. Thank you for everything you have done. I love you so much I am so glad that when I look back on this time at City Council, your friendship will be one of the things that I take away. I'm super jealous that you're retiring you're going to go and live a fabulous life with your amazing family. You're amazing husband who love you so much. And I'm just hoping to see a little bit of that along the way. So thank you for your service to the city. It has been remarkable and I just appreciate you and one thank you. And that view. Thank you. >> I'm not going to watch poetically about how much I enjoyed working with you. Because you know and really all I put myself in the queue to say was I mean you're getting to you know get out of the zoo really is a a you know for I think the general public is not aware like. We have legislative aides might you probably know that because if you've ever bothered us you last night but other if you ever Fri. And slip there no, but if you've ever reached out to us you probably heard back from a legislative aides. And. >> Cindy is a. I guess in charge of all of them, but really in charge of all City Council office and so has meetings get Lee. You know we're here from 08:00am sometimes till the wee hours of the morning really the legislative aides. You know sometimes in here late autumn trickle out I like to tell them. It's 5 home. The city is always hear every time a struggle in with everybody that's here we're leaning on her through late nights and so we really couldn't function without her and so that is why I put myself in here literally to say congratulations you get to go home you get to rest, I hope you don't watch the if you Yeah I look forward to continuing to hear from you continue to be friends with you and you getting some rest to me that every working person stream to have to go anymore so I'm I'm I'm a little jealous, but I love my job, so we'll leave it there. And can congrats I'll see you very soon its. >> Thank you chair. So the reason to have not mention Cindy before was because they were explicit instructions that were given to allies that Cindy did not want this. It's happening anyhow he there was a reason why he wasn't on the agenda and there's no way you can avoid it now Sun.. So we are talking about you you're here and we just want to thank you for everything you have done for us and for the city. >> So. That's the machine that keeps this going there's a lot of pieces and that make a City Council run and it's not just us it's it's Cindy Shepard in the office in the legislative aides then make sure that we have the materials that make sure that the communications happening between and the mayor's office and City Council and we're getting the right things on the agenda. And you do it all and you do it 31 we get text messages at all time. Holidays. That's what the work entails. So with from the bottom of my heart thank you Cindy not just for being you and for everything you've done for us, but what you've given to the city for many many years you have deserve this. Retirement. Thank you for preparing. I hate losing Gainey but thank you for preparing Jeanne and to fill in your shoes which are going to be big shoes to fill. But you've done such a great job. For the next generation and for the future of City Council by ensuring that everyone's learn from you and thank you for that. >> Before we go to councilmember Givens. If you know nothing else about Cindy Shepard her aides love her. If you don't need to know anything else. Her aides love her. That tells you everything it tells you everything about you. It's incredible I wouldn't need to know another thing about you and that would tell me everything Cindy is the den mother. And I was I was a Boy Scout and so that that term has meaning to me. You know as a kid being a Boy Scout having a den mother the guidance, the keeping keeping the I calmed the bumper lanes around me so you know this machine isn't broken by the way if this were a car Cindy is the mechanic except she fixes the car while it's running. 31. This Islam ons. It's incredible. There's one job in the city I would absolutely never do it yours. The way the grace. I think councilmember gabbard hit on the head there there are days. I tell people all the time this job is awesome 9 days out of 10 this job is awesome in the 10th day is exactly what you think it is on a bad day. But on the 10th day you need somebody with confidence and Cindy has always been that person in our office and she's been that for me. >> I just I can't say thank you enough Sun.. I love you very much. Thank you for everything. >> And I think if I had my merry and Charlie gerda said 3 minutes they get it to they they take their 3 minutes but I know they would Cindy and so thank you for everything. >> If you want to say anything we want and will put the pressure on it's not it's up to you first of all I do, but I want to thank. I want to thank some amazing people here that never get thanked and that starts right here with Janine and Jackie used to it. Had many chats and these these women are are the best they never get recognize, but they're the best attorneys in the city of St. Petersburg I worked with a lot of terms for 30 plus years. These Jack into being in their whole team is amazing. The other one I want to think it's right there. Rob Curtis. Rob you walk me off the ledge so much. Apd you in this one because you'd hear me and then I go home and he have been just a guess me how my day was at work and. It really has been a pleasure to work with everyone here. I am looking forward to retirement. I think Jack will start making a whole lot more cookies when full time. But I will MISS You guys the experiences and the friendships I have gained here have been amazing. And I look forward personally to coming back here as a citizen and speaking right here and what I think. We'll going to get that's right and you and me there's one. But anyway, thank you for everything really looking forward to you know spend time with my kids my grandkids just some traveling my first trips going to be to go on the visit my son and his wife who can't be here. Charlie thank you we go way back and I love you. I actually knew Ed. For my brother who never lived in the city of St. Petersburg but that in my brother piloted it together with American Airlines you made the last couple years back to tie. >> Councilmember fix Sanders, thank you for making sure we did that. Surprising that you're not done you're just getting started Abby retirement to you we will MISS You. But GOD be the glory for the great things that he has done. I come before you today as a proud American as the son of Saint Pete. My roots of planet deeply in Saint Pete soil. A product of Pinellas County public schools. The oldest of 4 children. A proud graduate of Lakewood High School in the University of South Florida goal Spartans and nobles a drum major for justice for all a teacher, a preacher, the family advocate in a public servant. A descendant of slaves in the historic gas plant district. A son of a single teenage mother who sacrificed it all to get my siblings and I everything happy birthday mall. What a gift. A witness you're older. What a gift to witness told us out take the oath of office. The nephew of the Korean War veteran who growing up in segregated St. Petersburg could not sit on the city's infamous green benches but today because this is America. The 90 year-old hands that used to pick somebody else's cotton went to the polls and he picked his great nephew to become Saint Petersburg's youngest City Council member. Today he gets witness me assume my seat on the city's highest bench. So I come before you today as a man who knows that the improbable journey that led me to this place in this historic moment in America could only happen here. We were told that we could not and would not win this election. But today it's a brand new day. Today we proved that with faith hope hard work and determination. In the people by your side. Anything is possible. And I promise you this the day that I come to City Hall prepared and equipped to work for all of Petersburg no matter who you cast your vote for in this election. And this moment, American history, Washington has a choice to make. Florida has a choice to make. Saint Pete has a choice to make. In fact we all have a choice to make. We continue to divide distract and tear down one another rather than build each other up. We love our neighbors as we love ourselves. In this moment, I remember when I was a child. My mother used to wake my siblings and I up every morning at dawn. But it was still dark. It's dark right now. But morning is coming. The Scripture tells us that weeping MAY endure for a night. But joy comes in the morning. Together we can do the necessary work. Together we can get in good trouble. And when the future for our children. Thank you MAY GOD bless Saint Pete MAY GOD bless America. Councilmember Harding write myself talk. Great myself, a note. Don't ever speak after quarry. I tried to work with you to pressure but. Really well done. And I thank you for the opportunity I'd like to thank my my family and neighbors who who came today, it means an awful lot for you ought to be here. I I. >> The the the as counsel given humans will tell you COUNCILMAN Givens will tell you it doesn't really set in until you sit down here. It it really doesn't it the the election. Difficult that thee everything that comes after the election is awesome but sitting here you start to feel the responsibility of what chairs along with the mayor and the administration do for 300,000 people and it's a it's it's pretty awesome. So I I appreciate the opportunity. I fully understand what a what what's expected of the seat and and I look forward to getting started so thank you very much. >> Well I want to welcome councilmember hurting in councilmember given to the You know I think a lot of times they're they're gets thrown out these things about. Well City Council is only a part-time do not. If we were on the dice and say I'm going through the b s flag on that one. Because it's not. And I know you both know that. And I'm looking forward to 2025 and beyond and watching you serve this great city of ours and congratulations to both of you. Just quickly. You know it was it, it's very interesting. I'm very blessed. I'm going on a post because it kind of flies under the radar a little bit and I'm just so thankful to continue to serve the city of St. Petersburg very very thankful and blessed and privileged to serve as your chair for 2025 looking forward to that privilege and responsibility but I do just want to say a couple of quick. Thank You's want to say thank you my wife. My wife's Ashley. Cecil e watches every meeting. I don't know why. But you know one of the things. One of the things that I think you I think my colleagues and and you know those who are here with us on Thursdays know like I struggle with rehashing things. I don't want to double dip like we don't need to do it twice. Stats Weiss us watches the meetings. So I don't have to come home. And rehash it. You know it's it's an amazing gift. She is my best friend and could not do this without her. And puts up with me and puts up with with this too and she serving just as much as i am so thank you. My kids are somewhere. I'm less likely to cry. You can see my son running around with this hat on. Again. We took we talk about being authentic. I'm sorry and I don't have socks on. You know I just I'm I'm very thankful that my kids get to see me up here being authentic I think that's the most important the important thing and I want to thank my my my brothers and there you saw some of my nieces and nephews earlier thank you for being here. And then my mom and Dad. I get it from them, it's their fault. I love you very much and then my mother-in-law sloss is also here thank you for all the support both at home here I've got the best in laws on the face of the players know many people that get to say that. Mike minor awesome, minor awesome. So anyway. Very thankful for 2025 looking forward to serving with all of you. This this next year is your chair again thank you for that vote of confidence and if there's nothing else. Jan.