Historic Day for Baker as Mayor Darnell Waites Sworn in for Third Term
BAKER, La. — The City of Baker witnessed a profound celebration and reflection on Friday, June 28, 2024, as Mayor Darnell Waites was inaugurated for his third term. The historic event at the Baker City Hall Auditorium marked a new chapter in the city’s journey, filled with inspiration, unity, and hope for the future.
The ceremony began with Mistress of Ceremony Kinta Cage warmly welcoming a distinguished gathering of residents, officials, and guests. The proceedings were graced by Pastor Danny Donaldson, Sr. of Rose Hill Church, who delivered a moving invocation that set a tone of reverence and anticipation for the day’s events.
Following the invocation, the Baker Police Department’s Presentation of the Colors honored the city’s commitment to service and community. Riley Douglas led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, and Gloria Johnson’s stirring performance of the National Anthem resonated with patriotic pride.
The Rose Hill Church Praise Team then took the stage, filling the auditorium with uplifting rhythms and melodies that set the stage for the heartfelt and solemn oaths to come.
The heart of the ceremony was the administering of the oaths of office, a sacred ritual that underscored the gravity of public service. Judge Kirk A. Williams led Mayor Darnell Waites and Police Chief Carl K. Dunn in their oaths, a moment marked by profound solemnity and communal support.
“We are here to witness a sacred commitment to the service of this great city,” Judge Williams proclaimed, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the oaths.
The ceremony continued with the swearing-in of the City Council members. Judge Brian Jackson administered the oath to Council Member Dr. Charles Vincent, while Council Member Rochelle Dunn was sworn in by her daughter Attorney Brittany Dunn. Judge Tarvald Smith presided over the oath for Council Member Desiree Collins, Attorney Monique Fields administered the oath to Council Member Robert Young, and Attorney C. Hunter King completed the oaths by swearing in Council Member Cedric Murphy.
Mayor Waites’ speech was a poignant highlight of the day. With visible emotion, Waites expressed his deep gratitude for the support of the community and his commitment to leading Baker forward. “As long as I remain being led by God, I know that we will grow as a whole. Let’s keep Baker moving forward,” Waites said, his voice choked with tears as he reflected on the trials and triumphs of his past four years in office. “The tears I shed today are for the trials and triumphs of the past four years. I have learned that God’s vision for this city is what guides me.”
Drawing from the biblical story of Nehemiah, Waites urged the community to embrace a spirit of optimism and collective effort. “We have to move forward together, identifying changes and praying for God’s guidance to make those changes a reality,” he said, calling for a unified approach to future challenges and opportunities.
The ceremony was further blessed by Elder Michel Woods of Beacon Light Baptist Church, who offered a fervent prayer for unity, wisdom, and prosperity for Baker’s future.
Among the notable attendees were East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor-President Sharon Weston-Broome and Constable Terrica Williams, whose presence highlighted the significance of the event and underscored the strong sense of community and collaboration that defines Baker.
“Today’s ceremony was not just an inauguration; it was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together in faith and hope,” Waites reflected, capturing the essence of the day’s celebration.
The event concluded with a festive reception featuring a delicious meal, offering an opportunity for residents and officials to connect, celebrate, and look ahead to the future of Baker.
