For Immediate Release
January 4, 2010
Contact:
Kelly McGuire
645-8623
COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL HOLDS REORGANIZATION MEETING
Mentel, Craig Re-elected to Leadership Roles
(COLUMBUS)—Council President Michael C. Mentel and President Pro Tem Hearcel F. Craig were both re-elected to their leadership positions during Columbus City Council’s reorganization meeting held Monday night.
“It is an honor and a privilege to continue serving the residents of Columbus as Council President,” said Mentel. “I am looking forward to another term of working with Mayor Coleman and my colleagues as we continue meeting the challenges posed by the lingering effects of the national economic downturn.”
Mentel is entering his 12th year on City Council. During his tenure he has chaired the Public Safety, Zoning, and Finance committees. Since first being named President of Council in 2007, Mentel has worked to increase business growth and economic development opportunities in Columbus. He was also instrumental in creating the Office of Homeless & Social Service Advocacy, which coordinates efforts in the public and private sectors to transition individuals and families from the streets to permanent housing.
President Pro Tem Craig joined City Council in April 2007. Craig chairs the Public Service and Minority & Business Development committees.
“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to serve as President Pro Tem of City Council,” said Craig. “My focus is to ensure we use the resources entrusted to us by the public in a fiscally responsible way. I will continue working with Council and the administration to ensure the 2010 budget meets the needs of tomorrow.”
Section 10 of the Columbus City Charter requires Council to elect a president and president pro tempore at the first meeting in January following a regular municipal election.
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