“Today marks a historic moment in our town’s story – a moment filled with promise, hope, and the spirit of unity. I stand before you completely humbled and honored to accept the responsibility as the first female mayor of Gladewater.”
Gladewater Mayor Brandy Flanagan began her term May 16 with thanks to her family members, friends, fellow council members, city staffers, local volunteers and her community.
“This journey has not necessarily been about breaking barriers but more about building bridges. It’s about embracing our collective strength, wisdom, and diversity to propel us forward. As I sit here, I am reminded of the countless individuals who paved the way, whose resilience and determination laid the foundation for progress.”
The Gladewater City Council’s monthly meeting began as usual last week, with an opening prayer and the Pledge Allegiance. Granted, it’s not often a council session kicks-off in front of a standing room-only crowd.
“Glad to see a big group here tonight for this historic occasion,” outgoing Mayor Scott Owens told the audience. “It only took a 150 years in Gladewater to elect a woman to the mayor’s post, and I congratulate you on that.”
Owens presented Certificates of Election to Flanagan along with returning Place 2 incumbent Michael Webber and newly-elected Place 3 councilman Stoney Stone then, in turn, received a plaque commemorating his service, presented by interim Gladewater City Manager Charlie Smith.
Interim Gladewater City Manager Charlie Smith (right) presents a plaque to outgoing Mayor Scott Owens May 16, thanking him for his 14 years of service – as council member from May 2005 to May 2015 and November 2020 to May 2022 then as mayor from May 19, 2022 to May 16, 2024.