Salisbury City Council Reorganizes; Elects April Jackson as President
SALISBURY, Md. – On Monday evening, Salisbury City Council approved a motion to reorganize its leadership, electing Councilwoman April Jackson as the new council president.
The motion removed Councilwoman Angela Blake from the position. It was brought forward by Councilwoman Melissa Holland at the beginning of the legislative session on Feb. 9.
“Before we go any further, I would like to say something very quickly; and I hope no one takes this personally,” Holland began before introducing the motion. “I think it’s just something that has to be done.”
Jackson seconded the motion, with herself, Holland, and Councilwoman Sharon Dashiell voting aye. Councilwoman Michelle Gregory inquired as to whether the motion was valid in accordance with the City Charter before voting nay.
Mayor Randy Taylor went on to conduct the election of the new council president. Gregory made a motion to nominate Blake for re-election, while Holland motioned to nominate Jackson. Blake received two votes; one from herself and from Gregory. Jackson received three votes; one from herself, Dashiell, and Holland. Blake and Jackson swapped seats following the election.
After Jackson was appointed and informed of next steps, she called for the election of council vice president. Gregory once again nominated Blake, while Dashiell opted to nominate herself. Blake again received two votes; one from herself and from Gregory. Dashiell received three votes; one from herself, Jackson, and Holland.
During public comments, several citizens congratulated Jackson and Dashiell on their new positions. Two citizens commented on the “toxic” and “vitriolic” nature of the council’s meetings.
“I will try to speak for all of us on this Council,” Dashiell responded during council comments. “I am sorry that you feel that its a toxic environment, for those of you that do. That is not our job to create that type of environment for anybody in our public [or] town.”
To watch the council meeting in full, click here.
