The Williams City Council reorganized during its last meeting in 2022 by seating two new members and selecting Don Parsons to lead from the dais in 2023.
Parsons, who is serving his first stint as mayor, was elected to the City Council in 2020.
Prior to the council reorganization, City Clerk Mariana Pineda administered the oath of office on Dec. 14 to former Mayor Alfred Seller Jr., and newcomers Kate Dunlap and former Planning Commissioner Maria Leyva.
The three were elected Nov. 8 to open seats on the City Council, including the one held by Councilman Sajit Singh, who died unexpectedly on Sept. 12 after announcing his bid for reelection, and Councilman Santos Jauregui, who did not seek a third term in office.
Although the election lacked the excitement of Colusa, which had four candidates vying for two open seats, the Williams City Council was just as divided in their choices for mayor and mayor pro tem, indicating the city may be headed in a new direction.
Sellers’ motion to immediately seat Leyva, which was seconded by Mayor Roberto Mendoza, failed by a vote of 3-2, with Parson, Dunlap, and Leyva in dissent.
Leyva’s motion to seat Parsons as mayor passed with a vote of 4-1, with Mendoza in dissent. Leyva was then selected mayor pro tem for 2023, also on a 4-1 vote, with Mendoza in dissent.
Prior to Jauregui leaving the dais, the City Council recognized him for his eight years of service and his contributions to the city of Williams.
Jauregui was elected in 2014 after running as a “united trio,” with Sellers and former City Administrator Chuck Bergson, with ideas of improving streets, parks, and recreational opportunities in Williams. He was reelected in 2018 and served multiple terms as mayor pro tem.
Jauregui thanked city staff and the council for their service and wished the new council members the best in their endeavors.
“It’s been a pleasure working with all of you serving the community,” Jauregui said.
Parsons, at the first meeting in January, is expected to appoint council members to various boards, committees, commissions, and liaison positions.
Singh served as primary for Colusa County LAFCo, Williams Finance Committee, Williams Personnel Committee, and General Plan Update Committee. Jauregui served as the liaison to Williams Unified School District and as an alternate on the Capital Improvement Committee.
Parson asked the council members to submit their assignment requests to him and City Administrator Frank Kennedy for consideration before the next meeting. ■