Richmond Mayor Dave Snow, Mayor-elect Ron Oler, issue statements following election
RICHMOND — Richmond has elected a new mayor in Ron Oler.
Late Wednesday afternoon, Democratic incumbent Dave Snow, who has held the office the last two terms, broke his silence following Tuesday night's defeat by 639 votes.
In a statement posted on Facebook at 3:10 p.m. Wednesday afternoon, Mayor Snow gave the following statement:
"I've had a lot of people ask me how I'm feeling today. My overwhelming feeling is thankful. I'm so grateful for this community, and everyone who has lifted and inspired me over these past 8 years. I have felt for so long that I'd already been given more than what was my allotted share, and I can't possibly ask for more. This time in office has been a dream job for me, and I have enjoyed every minute I've had to work with such a wonderful team. Every single person that works for our city is passionate about the work they do, and getting to work alongside each of them has been a humbling experience I will carry with me for years to come.
Elections will happen, and elected officials will come and go. What matters is that you showed up and voted in a fair and trustworthy election to make your voice heard. That, in and of itself, is progress.
Always fight for the beauty and authenticity of our amazing city.
Thank you.
-Dave"
Many of Snow's colleagues who ran for Common Council seats, both successfully and unsuccessfully, responded to Snow's post.
Bill Engle, who retained his District 3 seat in an uncontested race, said "Dave, thank you so much for your dedication, your enthusiasm, your knowledge, commitment and hard work for our city. You have been an inspiration to me and you will always be a leader and friend. You have led the way and we will try to carry on your vision."
Claudia Edwards, who came fifth in voting for one of three at-large seats, said "Thank you for giving it your all. You’re respected and admired in so many ways and we are looking forward to seeing all the amazing impact you’ll have wherever you go next. "
Jeffrey Locke, District 5 incumbent who lost reelection to Republican Anne Taylor by 173 votes, told Snow that it was an honor to serve with him over the past eight years.
Earlier that morning, Oler, new mayor-elect, gave his statement of thanks to the community in a Facebook post at 9:04 a.m., saying the following:
"Wow, just wow!
Thank you all so much for your support! This would not have been possible without each and every one of you. From the financial support of donors, emotional support during the roller coaster, and all of the kind words and conversations in between, thank you! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
As I have said during my candidacy. I will strive to be a mayor who listens more than I speak. This win wasn’t possible without all of you, and the digging our city out of the hole it’s in won’t happen without all of you either. There will be many more updates to come, but I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work with each and every one of you!!
#OneCityOneFamily #Bettertogether"
Commenters on Oler's post were filled with congratulatory messages, hope for the future, and suggestions on where he should place his focus once he enters office at the beginning of January.
This article originally appeared on Richmond Palladium-Item: Richmond Mayor Snow, Mayor-elect Oler, respond to election results
