Mayoral Rotation Names Lee As Mayor, Vera As Vice

Culver City CA

15 December, 2021

3:28 PM

Description

By Judith Martin-Straw, Culver City Crossroads December 14, 2021 While it was just another item on a very long agenda, an historic moment occurred during the Dec. 13, 2021 Culver City Council meeting, as Dr. Daniel Lee became Culver City's first African-American Mayor. With Vice Mayor Dr. Daniel Lee as the only nomination put forth, Council member Goran Eriksson made a comment that Lee's announced run for Congress would likely mean that he did not have sufficient time to execute the duties of mayor. Council member Vera also expressed his concerns about the amount of time that Lee would be spending "focused on the city." But Vera also offered that he would not disrupt the protocol; Lee as Vice Mayor was expected to be rotated to Mayor at this point on the calendar. Council member McMorrin defended Lee, noting that he had completed his doctorate while serving in office, and also worked full time. "It's quite alarming to hear statements like that. We are all qualified to be here, we were voted in, and we should support and respect that." Outgoing Mayor Alex Fisch added in his perspective, saying, "We have regular jobs and other commitments, two of us up here also have small children – ok, not so small anymore, but family obligations, and we have not had any problem getting the job done. It's been an honor and a pleasure, and a great experience. I'd like to thank my colleagues … we don't always agree …but we have gotten a lot done." With the vote called, Eriksson abstained, making it four ayes to rotate Lee to the position of mayor. Lee accepted. Fisch nominated Vera for Vice Mayor, no comments were made and that vote was five ayes. Without a public audience, City Clerk Jeremy Green offered to do the ritual "pin" that is the tradition for mayoral rotation. Newly seated Mayor Lee got straight to business, asking how many items on the agenda had time restraints, and went back to business. Culver City Crossroads is the prime source for news, events, politics, education and culture. they are here to serve the community, create connections, and have fun.