NEWBURGH HEIGHTS, Ohio — The Village of Newburgh Heights has sworn in Gigi Traore as mayor, following the destructive actions by her predecessor.
Traore becomes Newburgh Heights' first African-American mayor in the village’s 118 year history.
“It’s phenomenal, it’s a great opportunity,” Mayor Traore said. “Over the 118 years, we’ve developed, we’ve become more progressive and so this really says a lot for the community.”
The Newburgh Heights community has been through a lot in recent months after the resignation of Trevor Elkins. Elkins, who was the previous mayor, pleaded guilty to charges related to his campaign finances. Mayor Traore says the village is ready to look towards the future.
“When we talk about Newburgh Heights, right now no one’s talking about that incident and so I think we’ve already moved past that,” says Traore.
Mayor Traore told 3News that she wants to build trust within the community.
“Because of the history and how I landed here, you know, making sure we have an open and transparent government that’s welcoming to our residents, our businesses and our community partners,” says Traore.
Traore told 3News Monday morning that she planned to discuss her plans for the village for the next 20 months during her address after being sworn into office.
Previous Reporting:
- Newburgh Heights Mayor Trevor Elkins pleads guilty in attempted fraud case
- Newburgh Heights Mayor Trevor Elkins expected to resign as part of plea deal in attempted fraud case
- 3News Investigates: Newburgh Heights Mayor Trevor Elkins charged with attempted fraud, theft
- Northeast Ohio communities defend use of traffic cameras as debate continues in Statehouse