“Today Marks a New Beginning”: Sid Edwards Inaugurated as Baton Rouge Mayor-President
Edwards stressed that tackling crime requires more than policing and policies, calling for a holistic approach centered on community engagement, prevention, and equitable resources to foster trust and safety.
BATON ROUGE — “Today marks a new beginning of our city and parish,” Sid Edwards proclaimed Thursday as he was sworn in as East Baton Rouge Parish’s new mayor-president. Edwards, who defeated two-term incumbent Sharon Weston Broome in a December runoff, outlined an ambitious agenda centered on public safety, economic revival, and inclusivity.
Addressing a packed audience at the River Center Theater for Performing Arts, Edwards struck a tone of optimism while emphasizing the hard work ahead.
“New beginnings take planning, hard work, determination, and vision,” he said. “But together, we can create a Baton Rouge that reflects the best of us.”
Crime: A Top Priority
Edwards pledged to make public safety his administration’s foremost responsibility, calling for a transformative approach to how the city confronts crime.
“Instead of accepting crime as a problem we must live with, we must change that mindset,” Edwards said. “We must expect safety because providing law and order is the first duty of government.”
He underscored that tackling crime is not just about policing but also about fostering a community where residents feel secure in their homes and neighborhoods.
Reviving the Local Economy
Edwards also focused on economic recovery, promising to attract new businesses, support small enterprises, and expand opportunities across the parish.
“Our goal is to restore this place we call home and make it a shining city on a hill,” Edwards said. “Baton Rouge is open for business.”
To lead these efforts, he appointed local entrepreneur Charlie Davis as Chief Administrative Officer, signaling his commitment to bridging public and private sectors for sustainable growth.
A Personal Connection to Inclusivity
In a heartfelt moment, Edwards spoke about his mission to improve mental health resources, inspired by his two sons with autism. He pledged to make Baton Rouge a safer and more inclusive place for individuals with disabilities.
“Their world is so much better — free from hate, division, or angles,” Edwards said. “If we, as leaders, could live by those principles, imagine the progress we could achieve.”
Community Ties on Display
The inauguration was steeped in local pride, with a performance by the Istrouma High School marching band, a nod to Edwards’ roots as the school’s football coach. Entrepreneur Julio Melara emceed the event, introducing newly sworn-in Metro Council members who will work alongside Edwards in his administration.
Edwards closed his address with a call to action, urging residents to unite in building a stronger, safer, and more vibrant Baton Rouge.
“Together, we can rebuild and restore this city to its fullest potential,” Edwards said. “The future of Baton Rouge starts today.”
