Jonesboro City Council Swearing-In Signals Focus on Trust & Youth
Jonesboro, GA — Jonesboro city leadership formally welcomed new members to the City Council this week, marking the start of a new governing term grounded in preparation, collaboration, and public trust.
Mayor Donya Sartor emphasized that the transition into office was handled with intention—setting expectations early for how the city approaches leadership and teamwork.
“It requires preparation and intentionality,” Mayor Sartor said. “I’ve taken time to make sure they have what they need to be successful on Day One. That doesn’t mean they’ll know everything—but it does mean they’ll feel welcomed.”
As part of that preparation, the city conducted a mock council meeting designed to familiarize newly elected officials with procedures and expectations before their first official vote.
“I wanted to give them what I wish I’d had as a new elected official,” Sartor added. “The goal is confidence, clarity, and readiness.”
She also underscored that effective governance does not require unanimity, but it does demand respect.
“Operating as a team doesn’t mean we agree on everything,” she said. “It means we respect each other’s opinions and ideas.”
Among the newly sworn-in council members is Chelsey Curney, who described stepping into office with a listening-first mindset shaped by her military experience.
“Responsible governance starts with listening and learning,” Curney said. “It’s important to understand how the city operates, what residents experience day to day, and what our staff and partners see on the ground.”
Curney also reflected on the shift from campaigning to governing, noting that meaningful progress often requires collaboration, compromise, and patience.
“Campaigning is about sharing a vision; governing is about turning that vision into lasting outcomes,” she said. “Some of the most important work won’t show immediate results, but it’s still necessary.”
A strong focus on youth and representation was articulated by Cameron Dixon, who spoke about his long path to office and the responsibility he feels to the next generation.
“My journey toward this moment didn’t begin overnight,” Dixon said. “It began back in 2017, driven by a deep sense of devotion to serve. From the very beginning, this journey was never about a position or a title—it has always been about people.”
Dixon shared that his commitment was solidified during school visits with his brother, when a student asked if he would run for city council again.
“That moment stopped me in my tracks,” Dixon said. “I looked around the room and realized representation matters. I told that young man, ‘If I can do it, you can do it too.’ That’s what this is about.”
Rooted in lessons from his hometown in South Carolina, Dixon emphasized that service is measured by presence, not prestige.
“Community doesn’t cost a dollar,” he said. “It costs time, integrity, compassion, and a willingness to show up.”
As he begins his term, Dixon framed his role as one of responsibility rather than arrival.
“I’m here to be a vessel—to speak for all citizens of Jonesboro,” he said. “True representation listens, understands, and acts. My commitment is to serve with humility, lead with integrity, and always put the people of Jonesboro first.”
Together, Jonesboro’s leadership has signaled a clear tone for the term ahead: prepared governance, collaborative decision-making, and an intentional investment in the city’s future—particularly its youth.