Two Ohio cities have new mayors today. Longtime Columbus mayor Michael Coleman retired after 16 years and Akron mayor Don Plusquellic made a surprising resignation after 28 years in office. New Columbus mayor Andrew Ginther said his city is beginning a new renaissance.
Ideastream’s Mark Urycki reports the new Akron mayor is saying the same thing.
52 year old Daniel Horrigan was sworn into office this morning becoming the first Gen X-er to hold that position. One year ago on this date he wasn't expecting the incumbent to suddenly quit. Nor did he expect there would be two interim mayors. He was planning his reelection campaign for county clerk of courts.
”Putting the team together, scouting our locations, just that whole prep work for 2016..
Are you satisfied with the way it worked out?
“Absolutely. I mean I think you try to tackle the challenges that present to you. All of this is timing. You have to be ready for it or you’re not, I think it worked out pretty well.”
Horrigan reminded the audience of about 275 people that Akron went through several reinventions from agriculture center to rubber capital to polymer capital. He said Akron is at a crossroads and he wants try “bold, creative strategies” and to bring a renaissance to the city. He cited an “inequality gap” as an issue to be tackled.
“And I stand before you with the strong belief that our city is on the verge of a renaissance. It’s a time when we can create stronger and more stable neighborhoods, vibrant places, and an economy that is sufficiently inclusive and one that lifts everyone up. And we’ve been here before. Akron’s history is all about grappling with change.”
Horrigan promised a city government that is innovative, transparent, and efficient: “nothing less than a transformation of government” to make Akron a destination place.
He officially became mayor at midnight but had swearing-in ceremonies at Greystone Hall, the former Freemasons hall built in 1917. It's now a banquet hall owned by the city of Akron and managed by the convention bureau.
Mark,Urycki@ideastream.org