History was made in the small town of Palmetto, Georgia this week as Teresa Thomas-Smith was elected as the first Black woman to serve as mayor. Thomas-Smith’s election marks a significant milestone for a city that has been in existence for over 170 years.
New Mayor Makes History in Palmetto
On November 7, Thomas-Smith won the mayoral election by 84 votes in the city of around 6,000 people located just south of Atlanta. She will be sworn in on January 2, 2024.
Thomas-Smith has lived in Palmetto for 20 years and previously served on the city council for 4 years. She told local news that she was ecstatic about the election results, saying “The city is vibrating right now, it is not just me.”
As an Atlanta native, Thomas-Smith is excited to bring positive change and development to the city she now calls home while maintaining its small-town charm.
Focus on Smart Growth and Healing Racial Divides
The mayor-elect promises transparency, communication, and an inclusive city government. She aims to encourage smart development in Palmetto to boost the local economy while preserving the city’s character.
Thomas-Smith also seeks to heal racial divides, build unity, and spread love to all residents, regardless of who they voted for. “There’s more that unites us than separates us,” she said.
From City Council to Making History
Prior to being elected mayor, Thomas-Smith served on the Palmetto City Council for 4 years. She said a desire to learn more about how local government impacts residents inspired her first run for office.
Now as Palmetto’s new mayor, Thomas-Smith is thrilled to lead the city she loves. “I want this to be an eat, work, live, play community where everybody has something to do,” she stated.
On January 2nd, Thomas-Smith will officially make history as she is sworn in as Palmetto’s first African-American woman mayor. She is ready to lead with transparency, communication, and an abundance of love.
