Photo: Jacob Boomsma / iStock / Getty Images
Syracuse Mayor-elect Sharon Owens is preparing to take office, following her victory on Tuesday (November 4). Owens, who will be the 55th mayor of Syracuse, won decisively with over 73% of the vote, defeating Republican Thomas Babilon and independents Alfonso Davis and Tim Rudd. Her election marks a historic moment for Syracuse, making it the fourth largest city in New York to elect a Black mayor.
Owens has a long history in public service, beginning her career over 40 years ago with a college internship at a community center. She spent the last eight years as deputy mayor under Ben Walsh, overseeing the city’s police and fire departments and leading initiatives in police reform and housing policy. As reported by Syracuse.com, one of her first tasks as mayor will be to find a new deputy mayor with a strong background in economic development.
Owens' campaign focused on ensuring that Syracuse residents benefit from ongoing projects like the removal of the Interstate 81 viaduct and the development of the Micron semiconductor manufacturing campus. Her slogan, "Maximize the Moment," reflects her commitment to leveraging these opportunities for the city's growth.
In her victory speech, Owens expressed gratitude to the community elders and promised to work hard to make them proud. "To the elders of this community, you who for decades looked to the future of a time when there would be a mayor that looks like you... I’m going to work hard to make you proud," she said, according to Syracuse.com.
Owens, who lives in Syracuse's Meadowbrook neighborhood with her husband, will officially take office on January 1. Her administration aims to create good-paying jobs and ensure public safety, fostering a thriving community for all residents.