(WKYT) – The London City Council has named Tracie Handley as mayor, filling the remainder of a term that runs through Dec. 31.
The council first accepted the resignation of former Mayor Randall Weddle, which took effect Sunday, then voted to appoint Handley during a Monday meeting. The vote was not unanimous — council members John Bruner and Jim Baker abstained.
Background on Weddle’s removal
Handley previously served briefly as mayor last year following Weddle’s initial impeachment. Weddle was reinstated after an appeal, but a court of appeals later reaffirmed the city council’s removal of Weddle from office. Weddle then resigned, and the council accepted that resignation Monday.
“The court of appeals decision means that I should have been mayor the entire time,” Handley said. “The emergency injunction to get me removed was wrong. (Judge) David Williams has been instructed to vacate that order.”
Handley was sworn in at city hall.
Council business before the appointment
Before naming Handley, the council voted unanimously to amend the city budget, passed an ordinance on transparency, accountability and procurement, and adopted a new ethics ordinance. The council then broke into a closed-door executive session lasting more than an hour before returning to make the appointment.
Handley’s goals for London
Handley said her goal, with just under six months remaining in the term, is to restore unity to the city.
“Repair some things that have been broken over the last little bit,” Handley said. “London is a wonderful, wonderful town. And I love it with all my heart. It’s time to get it back on track, stop the infighting, stop the divisiveness and heal this town.”
Handley said she wants to begin work on several projects, including sidewalks for downtown streets.
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