El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson, new city representatives sworn into office
Renard Johnson was sworn in as El Paso mayor Monday alongside six city representatives and a handful of municipal court judges during a ceremony at the Plaza Theatre in Downtown.
“Today marks a new chapter for our city, a day to reflect on where we have been, celebrate where we are, and to look forward with hope and determination where we are headed,” said Johnson, the city’s first Black mayor, after being sworn in by El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego. “I am honored to stand before you today as your new mayor.”
The Star on the Mountain, under the Starlighters program of the El Paso Chamber, was lit blue in honor of Johnson by his family Monday.
“Together we will tackle the challenges that lie ahead and make our city a better place to live,” he said, addressing the new council and staff and all public servants in the community. “El Paso is a city with rich history, a vibrant culture and an unbreakable spirit.”
In addressing El Paso residents, Johnson promised to serve with “humility, transparency and dedication,” saying he will never forget his duty is to the “people of this great city.”
More than 1,000 people – including family members, city employees and community and business leaders – attended the ceremony and the reception that followed at the theater’s lobby.