COLORADO SPRINGS — Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade took the oath of office Tuesday at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum.
This will be the first time in eight years that Colorado Springs will have a new Mayor following John Suthers' term limit. Mobolade will be the 42nd mayor of Colorado Springs.
"It is with great humility and gratitude that I stand before you and accept this responsibility as your elected Mayor," Mobolade told those in attendance. "From its inception, our city has been a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and dreams where all individuals from all walks of life come together to forge a community that cherishes diversity and inclusion."
As the first elected Black and immigrant mayor of Colorado Springs, Mobolade is a source of inspiration to many.
"Especially as a young black woman, seeing someone in that position just like motivates me to like get out there and go for my dreams, go for everything that people say is like impossible," said 21-year-old Colorado Springs resident Tionna Moss.
Moss is happy the city elected its first black mayor in her lifetime.
"Oh my gosh like this is real," said Moss.
Mayor Mobolade is also influencing Black business owners. Kimberly Gold is a local life coach who said his election is proof anything is possible if you set your mind to it.
"It's a shining example for diverse populations that the American Dream is within reach," said Gold.
In a message of unity given the current national political environment, Mobolade told those gathered, "Jesus affirmed every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined. Every city or household divided against itself will not stand. Thereby, I call upon every Colorado Springs resident to join me in building a united Colorado Springs."
While campaigning Mobolade said his top three priorities included public safety, infrastructure/housing, and economic development.
“You told me you want safer neighborhoods and a fully staffed and well-trained police department, and innovative solutions to prevent and end homelessness … let’s get to work,” said Mobolade.
He said he wants to increase the number of police training academies for city police officers. He also said he sees a need for the retention of officers, rather than just recruitment.
Mobolade also said he plans to create a fund with money coming from foundations, businesses, and non-profits to provide grants for developers to address the needs of those of middle-income households.
While campaigning he also described economic development as “a three-legged stool” which includes 1) promoting the region 2) bringing in new businesses and 3) supporting current local businesses.
In May Mobolade shared what he plans to do in his first 100 days as Mayor of Colorado Springs. Part of the 100-day plan included how he intends to address his top campaign priorities.
Part of his promise of transparency is publishing a progress report on the city's website with everything he's worked on so far. You can view Mobolade's 100-day plan here.
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