News
Patterson Sworn In As Mayor
By: Susan Tebben
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As the outgoing two-term mayor looked on, a new administration was introduced to Athens on Monday morning.
Though Steve Patterson won’t officially begin his term as mayor until Jan. 1, he said he picked this week to be sworn in for a reason.
“I chose Winter Solstice because after this, every day is going to be a little brighter,” Patterson told a crowd of city employees and media in the Athens City Council chambers.
After being sworn in by City Law Director Lisa Eliason, Patterson thanked his family and supporters, but paid special thanks to outgoing mayor Paul Wiehl.
“Having Wiehl mentor me has been fantastic,” the new mayor said.
Though he didn’t face a hard race in the election – his one opponent withdrew from the race before the November 3 election – Patterson recognized challenges for the future of Athens. He called the West Union Street fire a “blessing in disguise” because of the opportunities it brings to improve buildings that were damaged by fire in November 2014.
He emphasized his desire to renovate the armory at the end of Court Street, and make it something for the community to enjoy.
“I would like to repurpose it into a community center,” Patterson said.
Weihl, who served eight years as mayor, said resources and money will be a challenge for his successor, but having a solid staff around him will be his best asset.
“Listen to the staff, listen to the boots on the ground,” Wiehl said.
He said new ideas such as reopening the armory are good, but the funding and resources will be a challenge.
“There will always be a case for new things, you’re always trying to do more,” Wiehl said. “But you don’t always have the money or the resources.”
Still, Patterson said he is excited to drive the city in a new direction.
“We’re going to rock this city,” Patterson said. “In a good way.”