Waynesboro, Virginia, has made history as Kenny Lee was unanimously elected as the city’s first African American mayor. Alongside him, Lorie Jean Akanbi made her mark as the city’s first African American vice mayor. These elections highlight significant progress for the city, which had never seen leaders of this background before.
A Historic Election for Waynesboro
At the first meeting of the year, the Waynesboro City Council voted unanimously for Lee as mayor. Lee, who joined the council in 2022, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity. He shared his pride in serving his hometown in this new role, stressing how this moment filled him with hope for the city’s future.
“It makes me feel very proud, and it also gives me hope that we’re making progress and doing things the right way here in Waynesboro,” Lee said. He added that while this was a personal milestone, he hoped it would not be the last of its kind.
Lee plans to focus on practical improvements for the city. His goals include advancing projects such as adding a new wing to the high school, finishing the Nature’s Crossing Technology Center, and improving staffing at the local fire and police departments.
Lorie Jean Akanbi: Waynesboro’s First Black Vice Mayor
In addition to Lee’s election, Lorie Jean Akanbi made history by becoming Waynesboro’s first African American vice mayor. Akanbi represents Ward A on the council and was selected for the role with a 4-1 vote. Her election to this prominent position is another significant step in the city’s efforts toward inclusivity and progress.
Akanbi, the second African American woman to serve on the Waynesboro City Council, expressed how humbled and honored she felt to be chosen. “In these days and times, we’re still making firsts,” she said. “It’s humbling to be part of that progress.”
As vice mayor, Akanbi intends to focus on practical issues facing the community, particularly attainable housing, homelessness solutions, and economic development. Her approach aims to meet the city’s pressing needs without looking for grandeur. “Waynesboro is a practical city, and we have practical needs,” she said.
A Vision for Progress and Community
Both Lee and Akanbi’s appointments reflect a broader vision for Waynesboro’s future, one grounded in addressing practical needs. Lee hopes to bring about positive changes that benefit all residents, building on existing projects and ensuring that the local government supports the daily needs of the community.
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