UPDATE: Friday, March 7, 2025: The Mayor of the City of Jonesboro, Mayor Donya Sartor, has rescinded her resignation.
ORIGINAL: Thursday, March 6, 2025:
In a surprising turn of events, Mayor Donya Sartor officially announced her resignation as Mayor of Jonesboro, Georgia, during an emergency special called council meeting on March 6, 2025, at 11:09 a.m. The meeting, which included a roll call of the city's council members and a closed executive session on personnel matters, ended with Sartor delivering a heartfelt and transparent statement about her departure.
Mayor Sartor’s Resignation Announcement
Upon returning from the executive session, Mayor Sartor addressed the council and the public with a speech that emphasized integrity, transparency, and commitment to the city she has served:
"At this time, I like to present before the mayor pro tem and council. I'm rendering my resignation as mayor of the City of Jonesboro. I specifically selected this date so I can fully cooperate with the request of a forensic audit. Even though there are no specific allegations against me from council regarding any wrongdoing, it's important that my tenure concludes with those findings of no wrongdoing or mismanagement of funds. I'll provide a statement to the staff and the constituents over the next 60 days. At this time, I'm committed to making the transition to the Mayor Pro Tem very seamless and assure that our service delivery to all constituents continues with excellence."
Mayor Sartor, who made history as Jonesboro’s first Black mayor, reaffirmed her dedication to public service, making it clear that her resignation was not a sign of defeat but rather a choice to prioritize her well-being while continuing to support the community:
"I am so grateful for the opportunity to have been elected as a mayor of the city of Jonesboro and the first Black mayor elected to this position. I don’t quit, and this isn’t quitting. I chose myself. I plan to serve in other capacities that benefit this beautiful community I call home. Forever in service, Mayor Donya Sartor."
A Seamless Transition for Jonesboro
Mayor Pro Tem Tracy Messick will take on leadership responsibilities as the city transitions to new mayoral leadership. Sartor assured council members and residents that she remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition while maintaining excellence in city services.
Before officially adjourning the meeting, Mayor Sartor invited Council Member Billy Powell to handle the honors of closing the session. With a motion to adjourn, the meeting concluded—marking the end of Mayor Donya Sartor’s tenure.
Mayor Sartor’s legacy of leadership, integrity, and historic accomplishments will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on Jonesboro, and many will be eager to see what role she takes next in serving her community.
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