Today, the city of Abbeville will welcome new city leaders and some returning ones during a swearing-in ceremony at Magdalen Square.
Josh Meny was LIVE in Abbeville this morning with members of the council and mayor who share their thoughts on their upcoming roles in government.
In the ceremony today, Roslyn White and Terry Broussard will take their place on the city’s council. This is the first time in the city’s history that two women will serve on the council. When elected, Broussard also became the first African American woman to serve on the council.
White says that their election to the council creates a better representation of the demographics of the city in which they live. "People who maybe didn’t feel like they had a voice before now have a voice," says White. "They can better identify with the council and feel like they have better representation."
Broussard says that she is honored to be elected to the council as the first African American woman, and hopes that her legacy will reflect her dedication to District D.
"I hope along the way that I’ve empowered or given another young lady the power or vision that if she wants to she can make a difference and get involved in government," says Broussard.
During the ceremony, Mayor Mark Piazza will also be sworn in for another term. Piazza has been serving as mayor of Abbeville since 2002.
Council members Francis Touchet, Francis Plaisance, and Brady Broussard Jr. shared their outlook for the city and what their goals are for the upcoming year including attracting new businesses, cutting down on crime, and beautifying the city.
The ceremony will take place at 12:39 pm at Magdalen Square in Abbeville.