Gonzales Swears in First Black Mayor, Marks Historic Moment for City Leadership
Another historic achievement during the ceremony was the swearing-in of Cynthia Gray James as one of the first women to serve on the Gonzales City Council and the first minority woman to represent Division C.
GONZALES — Tim Riley made history Monday, being sworn in as Gonzales' first Black mayor at a ceremony held at the Price LeBlanc PACE Center. Alongside him, other newly elected city officials took their oaths of office, marking a momentous occasion for the city.
Riley, a lifelong resident of Gonzales, expressed gratitude and a sense of duty as he took on his new role. While acknowledging the significance of being the first Black mayor, he emphasized his commitment to serving all residents of the city.
"I want the focus to be not just on the history of my election but on my dedication to being the best mayor for Gonzales," Riley said in his speech.
As part of his administration, Riley outlined key priorities aimed at improving the quality of life for residents. His main focuses will include addressing the city's aging drainage infrastructure, reducing traffic congestion, and enhancing public safety in collaboration with the Gonzales Police Department.
“We need to improve our public safety tools,” Riley stated. “I’m working closely with Chief Sherman Jackson to install bullet-detecting cameras in certain high-risk areas. These cameras will immediately alert police to gunfire, helping us respond faster and more effectively.”
Another historic achievement during the ceremony was the swearing-in of Cynthia Gray James as one of the first women to serve on the Gonzales City Council and the first minority woman to represent Division C. James, whose father once ran for the same council seat 50 years ago, reflected on the generational milestone.
“My father didn’t win his race, but now, 50 years later, I’m here, and we’re making history together,” James shared.
James, a passionate advocate for unity, pledged to work closely with Riley and the city council to foster a stronger, more cohesive community.
“Though we may look different, our hearts are the same,” she said. “We all share the same goal of uniting this community and making Gonzales a better place for everyone.”
The city of Gonzales has seen a significant demographic shift over the past few decades. Since 2000, the Black population in the city has more than doubled, now comprising 47% of the population according to the 2020 Census. Despite this, it had been nearly a decade since the city had a Black candidate for mayor.
Riley acknowledged this shift in Gonzales' makeup and the importance of fostering leadership among the youth. “I’m not here to hold on to this title forever,” he said. “When the right young person comes along, I want to be ready to help them step into this role. We all must pass the torch to the next generation.”
With his focus on public safety, infrastructure, and unity, Riley's tenure as Gonzales' first Black mayor is set to be one of change, collaboration, and community empowerment.
