Tony Dolce, R-Ward 2, moves new Council President Regina Brackman’s nameplate during Monday’s council meeting as new members Doug Scotchmer and Hannah Jaroszynski look on. P-J photo by Sara Hotlhouse

With the official inauguration meeting for the 2026 Jamestown City Council being held Monday night, the city not only has a new city council for the next two years, but a new city council president as well, Councilwoman Regina Brackman, D-Ward 3.

Last year’s city council president, Tony Dolce, R-Ward 2, was also nominated for city council president for this next term, with Brackman receiving more nominations and following nominations, being approved through a unanimous ballot and vote. Brackman is the first Black City Council president in the council’s history.

“I am humbled and honored to be chosen for this position,” Brackman said. “I do not take this position lightly and I will do my best to support and guide the council to support the residents of the city of Jamestown, to support the mayor and this administration.”

Brackman welcomed the four new council members along with the returning members, saying she looks forward to working as a unified council, focused on doing what is right for the city and its residents. Brackman became a councilmember in April 2021, being appointed to represent Ward 3 following the passing of Vickye James, who Brackman said she knew would be proud and supportive of her actions as a councilmember and as the Ward 3 representative.

“In the five years that I’ve served as a council member I’ve learned and gained an understanding of the operations of our city government and to individualize the concerns that affect the quality of life for our residents,” Brackman said.

“I will continue to engage in activities, policy updates and or creations of new policies that will promote change or resolution to those concerns.”

Brackman added that she will be the first to admit that she does not know everything but has a willingness to learn about every aspect of being in the city council president position to be able to perform her duties successfully and responsibly. She said she understands the responsibility and commitment that she is taking on.

“I thank you all and look forward to serving the city of Jamestown and our residents,” Brackman said.