By Meg Hibbert
Contributing Writer
Renee Turk and Anne Marie Green made history Monday night when fellow Salem Council members elected them mayor and vice mayor, the first women to serve together in those positions.
Turk is serving her second term as mayor. Green is serving her first term on Council. They will serve as mayor and vice mayor through Dec. 31, 2026.
Councilmembers’ votes were unanimous at the organizational meeting that preceded the first meeting of 2025..
Green’s late husband, Mac Green, was not only a Councilmember but vice mayor for 20 years.
It was also the first meeting of this new Council year for John Saunders, who was elected in November and previously served two years ago. He was sworn in Sunday by Circuit Court Judge Chris Clemens, in the presence of Salem City Manager Chris Dorsey and Assistant City Manager Rob Light.
Council and the audience Monday night gave a standing ovation to retiring Councilmember Bill Jones, who chose not to run again after 16 ½ years on Council.
Jones’ mother, his wife, his two sons and daughters-in-law as well as the two youngest of his five grandchildren posed for photographs. Mayor Turk read a proclamation thanking Jones for his service, noting he “exemplified dedication and impactful leadership,” particularly in making Salem a business-friendly city.
Turk also presented a framed photo collage of some of the highlights of Jones’ years and people he worked with, as well as projects he championed: renovations and expansion to Salem High School and complete renovations to Moyer Sports Complex.
Councilman Randy Foley, who served with Jones for most of his terms, thanked Jones for his service. “We didn’t always see eye to eye, but I know you always had Salem at heart,” Foley said.
Jones worked for Yokohama Tire, then opened his own Fast Signs franchise. He now has a real estate business. He was a sports official and coach and friend to many, Turk said.
During the Citizen Comment period, Planning Commissioner Jackson Beamer remembered former chairman Vicki Daulton who died recently. “She made Salem a better place to live and do business,” he said, voice breaking. He asked for a moment of silence in her memory.
Mayor Turk recognized three new Salem Police Officers McGee, Warren and Martin, who were attending their first Council meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:06 p.m.
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