Gaffney, South Carolina, witnessed a historic moment on Tuesday night as Lyman Dawkins III clinched victory in the mayoral runoff election. Dawkins, a school principal and county council member, is set to become the city’s first-ever African American mayor.
Landslide Victory in Gaffney Mayoral Runoff
Unofficial results show Dawkins securing a commanding lead with 68.1% of the votes. He garnered 1,286 votes, while his opponent, Moss, received 605 votes. This decisive win marks a significant milestone for Gaffney’s political landscape.
Dawkins expressed his excitement about the historic nature of his win. “It’s a historic moment for the city of Gaffney,” he said. “Being the first African American mayor is huge for me, my family, and the community.”
From School Principal to Mayor: Dawkins’ Vision for Gaffney
Currently serving as the principal of Gaffney Middle School, Dawkins plans to continue in this role. He sees his new position as an opportunity to inspire his students. Dawkins aims to show them that setting and achieving new goals within one’s community is always possible.
Dawkins’ vision for Gaffney focuses on growth and development. He outlined his priorities, including improving infrastructure, attracting new businesses, and enhancing the city’s aesthetics. “This is not my council or my city, this is ours,” Dawkins emphasized.
A Seasoned Public Servant Takes the Helm
Dawkins brings considerable experience to his new role. He has served on the Cherokee County Council for the past seven years. This background in local government will likely prove valuable as he transitions to the mayor’s office.
The mayor-elect’s dual roles as an educator and public servant uniquely position him to bridge various community sectors. His experience in both fields could foster innovative approaches to city management and community engagement.
What’s Next for Gaffney Under Dawkins’ Leadership
As Gaffney prepares for this new chapter, anticipation builds around Dawkins’ plans. His emphasis on collective ownership of the city’s future suggests a collaborative approach to governance. This strategy could lead to increased community involvement in local decision-making processes.
The official certification of the election results is scheduled for Friday at 9 a.m. Once confirmed, Dawkins will begin the transition process. His inauguration will mark a new era in Gaffney’s history.
