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Syracuse Mayor Sharon Owens has pledged to focus on opportunity, equity, and transformative change as she begins her term. During her inaugural address on Saturday (January 2), Owens, the city's first African American mayor and second woman to hold the position, outlined her administration's priorities. She emphasized the economic potential of the Interstate 81 Viaduct project and the Micron Technology complex in Clay, which are expected to bring significant job opportunities to the region.
Owens, who was officially sworn in at a smaller ceremony on Wednesday (December 30), delivered her speech at the Landmark Theatre in front of over 1,500 attendees, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James. Owens highlighted plans to partner with modular construction builders for new housing, expand police and fire department ranks, and invest in mental health and violence prevention programs. She also expressed her commitment to developing the Inner Harbor and listening to the community's needs.
Owens, who served as deputy mayor under her predecessor Ben Walsh, won the mayoral election by a landslide in November. She aims to build on the initiatives started during Walsh's administration while bringing her own vision to the city. Owens concluded her address by encouraging collaboration and innovation, stating, "Let’s move forward together and maximize what’s possible for our city."
According to Syracuse.com, Owens received a congratulatory letter from former Vice President Kamala Harris, praising her leadership and advocacy for healthcare and educational equity. Governor Hochul expressed her intent to work closely with Owens on affordable housing and crime reduction efforts.