During a small, private ceremony on the steps of Queens Borough Hall, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Jr. was sworn-in for his first full-term as Queens Borough President on Friday.
As the Borough President’s wife, Tameeka, and son, Donovan III, looked on, New York City Clerk Michael McSweeney administered the City Charter-mandated oath of office to Borough President Richards, who had his hand placed on a Bible when taking the oath.
Also in attendance was newly appointed Queens Deputy Borough President Ebony Young.
First elected in a special election on Nov. 3, 2020 to fill out the remainder of the term of former Borough President Melinda Katz, Richards, who traces his roots to Jamaica, was elected to a full four-year term on Nov. 2, 2021.
That four-year term officially began with the start of the new year at midnight on Jan. 1, 2022.
“It is a great honor to have the opportunity to continue serving the 2.4 million residents of the Borough of Queens,” Richards said. “I know a great deal of trust and faith has been placed in me to lead our borough as it seeks to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and enjoy a brighter future.
“With the help and support of the people of Queens, we will make sure a brighter future is ahead,” he added.
“I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Borough President Richards on his swearing-in,” Young said. “It is a great privilege to serve Queens as its Deputy Borough President, and I look forward to working with Borough President Richards as he begins his first full term in office.
“I know that, under the Borough President’s skillful and steadfast leadership, we will succeed in implementing his vision of a Queens that works for everyone,” she added.
Richards’ public inauguration ceremony had been scheduled for Jan. 16, 2022, but it is postponed due to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases.
The new date for the event is yet to be determined.
