Several council members, including the mayor, took their oath of office at the Providence Village Town Council meeting on Tuesday evening.
Before she was sworn in for her third term as mayor, Linda Inman, who ran unopposed, read a statement about what the commitment means to her.
“Leadership isn’t about surrounding yourself only with people who agree with you,” Inman said. “It’s about listening to everyone, even the voices that challenge you, disagree with you and see things differently than you. As we prepare to take our oath tonight, I want each of us to remember that it’s our responsibility to not govern for one group, one neighborhood or one perspective. It’s to serve all of our residents, and that requires patience, humility and the willingness to truly listen.”
Inman further expressed her appreciation to serve another term and gratitude to the residents, families, board and committee members, event organizers and anyone who shows up and shows care for the town.
“Our town thrives because people invest themselves in Providence Village,” Inman said. “So, as we begin the next term, I can promise you this. I will continue showing up, doing the work, listening carefully and making decisions with the best interest of our town at heart.”
For the oath of office, Inman invited Nixon Gilbert, whom she described as a “lifetime resident” of Providence Village, to assist her in the swearing-in process.
Next to be sworn in was Kelly Nelson, who ran uncontested for Place 1, retaining her seat on the council.
Last to take their oath of office was Elise Jumbelick, who ran unopposed for Place 6.
In her swearing-in, she was accompanied by her husband and two children.
She replaced Adam Knesek, who did not file to run for the seat to which he had been appointed.
After stepping down from the council, Knesek was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by Inman.
“Adam, I want you to know how much we appreciate you coming and filling in while the seat needed an appointment, and I want you to know that you have some time, but we expect to see you again,” Inman said.
Afterward, Nelson was re-elected as mayor pro tem with a motion by council member Klayton Rutherford and a second from council member Jeff Doramus, who was also reappointed as deputy mayor pro tem.
“Kelly’s been serving in the role very well for several years now, and I think she should continue as long as she’s willing,” Rutherford said.
Shortly after, he added, “Jeff’s been doing a great job in this role and as a council member in general, and I think he should be there.”
Council member Dustin Clay was present but abstained from voting for both positions.
The council then approved the Planning and Zoning Commission’s recommendation regarding approval of replat for the Providence Village Square Phase 2 on 1.616 acres as submitted by Michael Heimlich on behalf of BBD Providence Village Partners, LLC.
The council then went into executive session, but no action was taken when the members returned to open session.
