The City of Yuma’s 2023 Inauguration Ceremony took place downtown in the Historic Yuma Theatre

Five members were sworn into their positions and some share their goals to help the community

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY)- The City of Yuma held its Inauguration Ceremony Friday evening, welcoming back Mayor Doug Nicholls along with several new councilmembers.

Presiding Municipal Judge James Coil and councilmember Gary Knight were re-elected..

The incoming new councilmembers are Arturo Morales and Carol Smith.

Yuma's Historic Theatre was filled with Yumans showing support for the elected city council.

New councilmember Morales who says it's an honor to represent Yuma. He mentions he's ready to hit the ground running and names a few things that are on his agenda.

"Safety, leisurely sports activities for the kids. Are we bringing in new businesses to the community? So there's a number of things we're going to have to address as a council together," explains Morales.

Mayor Nicholls was sworn in for the third time as mayor and says it means a lot to have the community's support.

He says the council is going to focus on economic development.

"Bringing in those primary industries with higher paying jobs that bring in dollars into the community and not worrying about circulating dollars among the community," mentions Mayor Nicholls.

Today was different than the other inaugurations for Mayor Nicholls because his sister, Judge Nicholls got to do the honors.

"Having her to be able to administer the oath was very special," continues Mayor Nicholls.

He ended the ceremony with a closing speech, followed by a blessing from Pastor Tyrone Jones.