Durango has a new mayor.
City Councilor Sweetie Marbury was sworn in as the city’s new mayor Tuesday night, to cheers and kind words from family, friends and U.S. Sen. Mark Udall.
The senator said Marbury really dedicates herself to the community.
“Sweetie’s going to be a heck of a mayor,” Udall said. “Sweetie, it’s been my privilege and honor to know you and work with you.”
Marbury said she had few women role models in public service as a young girl.
“My mother and her dedication to our community inspired me,” she said. “When I came to Durango 40 years ago, the City Council had a small rank of women. I was amazed and inspired to see a woman could be elected.”
The city has a rotating mayor position that changes hand every April. There is a vote, but it’s a custom that the mayors take turns in office based on the amount of votes they earned in the last election.
City Councilor Dick White became emotional as he passed the position to Marbury. He highlighted accomplishments the council has achieved as a team.
“This has been a very congenial and hardworking council,” White said. “I thank my fellow councilors for your thoughtfulness on behalf of the city. ... It’s been a pleasure to work with you all this year, and I look forward to the coming year carrying through the work that we have begun.”
Councilor Dean Brookie was elected mayor pro tem. Both votes were unanimous.
smueller@durangoherald.com
