By J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
With little discussion and even less fanfare, the City Council voted in its new leadership Tuesday evening.
Council president-elect Elaine Brown and vice president-elect Kevin Hyde both received 17 votes, unanimous support from those present.
Council members Glorious Johnson and Suzanne Jenkins were both excused.
“... Knowing tonight is the vote for new Council leadership, I am trying to minimize the last-minute finagling that traditionally occurs,” Jenkins explained in a last minute memo. “My son is graduating from high school tonight ... and my family and I will be there to celebrate his accomplishments.”
In her nomination of Brown, Council member Sharon Copeland described her as, “as a hard worker and dedicated colleague.”
“I’m so honored and privileged to nominate Elaine Brown for Council president,” she said. “I know she will do a wonderful job for us.”
Council member Reggie Fullwood, who briefly entertained a presidential bid of his own this year, seconded Brown’s nomination.
“She will be a great leader,” he said.
Council member Faye Rustin, another presidential hopeful, did not receive a nomination.
Just before the votes were recorded, Council member Pat Lockett-Felder quickly stood, arms waiving.
“I’d like to say something,” she said, “ditto.”
Upon winning, Brown’s acceptance speech was nearly as brief.
“I’d just like to thank you all very much for your votes of confidence,” said Brown following momentary audience applause. “We’re going to have a super year. I’m proud to work with each of you.”
Hyde’s nomination quickly followed. Council member Lynette Self did the honors, Gwen Yates seconded.
To many, Hyde’s victory was nothing short of predictable.
Within days of announcing his candidacy last December, he had written endorsements from nearly every Council member.
“I only hope I can continue to build consensus in the year ahead,” said Hyde of the win. “We are 19 minds that together can work better than any one mind.
“And if anyone can decide to do this, why not during a Super Bowl year.”
From there outgoing council president Lad Daniels called for a short recess, during which photos were taken, pats on the back given and handshakes exchanged.
Moments later, he approached the podium.
“All right everybody,” said Daniels before resuming regular Council business. “Let’s get back to work.”
Hyde and Brown will officially move up in July.