City of Decatur appoints first black mayor

City of Decatur commission leaders have selected Tony Powers as mayor for 2026. He will be the city’s first Black mayor.

The Decatur City Commission voted on the decision Jan. 5. Powers is a longtime commissioner and a member of the city’s five-member governing body since 2015. received the mayor’s gavel during a meeting at City Hall attended by residents and city staff.

The commissioners also elected Lesa Fronk as mayor pro tem, creating the first leadership team in Decatur with both a Black mayor and a Black mayor. Atlanta News First reported. Speaking to reporters, Powers said this selection was significant for the community.

“It’s something that’s really monumental, and I’m encouraged that you know that we’re not just here to make history, but to make sure that we continue to do what’s right for our city,” he said.

The city commission selection process differs from typical municipal elections in much of Georgia. Currently, residents elect commissioners, who then elect among themselves a mayor and mayor pro tem each year, according to the city’s official website.

At the same time, city officials recently approved an amendment to the city charter that will allow Decatur voters to directly elect the mayor beginning in November 2027, replacing the current system of selection by commissioners, the WSB-TV report said.

Former Mayor Patti Garrett did not seek re-election this cycle. Although Garrett served in the role for 10 years, she voiced her support for charter revision. Garrett believes a four-year term chosen by voters could provide “greater continuity of leadership.”

With new leadership in place, Powers says his priorities include addressing affordability and helping residents experiencing homelessness in the metro city.

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