Culver City Observer -

Culver City Council welcomed two fresh faces and a re-elected colleague during Monday's swearing-in ceremony that culminated with Alex Fisch taking over the mayoral reins and Daniel Lee selected as vice mayor.

New Councilmembers Albert Vera and Yasmine-Imani McMorrin along with incumbent Goran Eriksson were sworn in virtually by City Clerk Jeremy Green during the ceremony that lasted nearly three hours.

"I am humbled by this opportunity," said McMorrin after taking the oath of office, becoming the first Black woman on the Council. "I am grateful for all the support I've received."

She talked about equity, vision and diversity in city government and promised to "prioritize equity as Culver City develops, allowing everyone to share in our progress."

"I am proud to the be the first black women on the Council but I won't be the last," she added, concluding her remarks.

Vera, a lifelong Culver City resident and former commissioner, expressed his thanks to the 10,665 residents who voted for him.

"They showed us the power of our voices," said Vera, who father served 12 years on the City Council. He stated that their support "honors me and inspires me" and pledged to "elevate their voices."

Mayor Alex Fisch

Eriksson was appreciative of the electorate who granted him another term on the Council. He won his seat by 28 votes. And he promised to continue represents all the stakeholders in Culver City.

After the new councilmembers were sworn in, they voted to elevate Fisch to Mayor and Lee to Vice Mayor, both ceremonial posts.

Fisch called for bold and imaginative action to remedy municipal problems, including housing shortage, homelessness and transportation. And he also proposed a public health committee to address the mental health problems caused by the pandemic.

During the ceremony, the Council also presented virtually plaques to departing members Meghan Sahli-Wells and Thomas Small for their service on the Council.