Kim Ecklund takes the oath of office as Jamestown mayor Monday afternoon in City Council chambers. City Court Judge George Panebianco, right, administered the oath to Ecklund. P-J photo by Eric Tichy

Kim Ecklund promised to keep her remarks brief following Monday’s swearing-in ceremony at the Jamestown Municipal Building. The history-making Ecklund managed to pack a lot into those comments — acknowledging the city she loves and those who helped guide her to the mayor’s office.

“I am truly honored and humbled to stand before you as the 26th mayor of the city of Jamestown,” Ecklund said as dozens of people filled the chamber where the City Council meets. “As I took the solemn oath of office, I am reminded that we could not have done this, and it could not have been possible, without the help of so many people who are not only present today, but also watching on live-stream video.

“As the first Republican female mayor, I am truly grateful and hope to continue to be a role model for more to follow me in the future.”

In securing victory in the mayoral race last November, Ecklund went from longtime city councilwoman to leader and face of the city.

“Jamestown is the ‘Pearl City’ of Western New York, and it is not only my hometown, but it is a place I chose to return to (and) a city that I truly love and want what is best for all its residents,” she said after taking the oath of office administered by City Court Judge George Panebianco.

Ecklund acknowledged “all the things that make this city amazing.” That includes its manufacturing history; a diverse place with cultural heritage; its strong educational system; and, “most importantly, its people.”

She continued, “We have survived a pandemic that changed how we do business and have emerged stronger and better equipped for the future.”

“While acknowledging history is vitally important, our focus must now be on the work that lies in front of us,” she said. “I firmly believe that together — with this council, administration and workforce — we can successfully navigate whatever lies ahead.”

Ecklund referenced her grandfather, Alpine Johnson Sr., who in 1965 ran for mayor of Jamestown, but lost in the primary. She also thanked her husband, Keith, “who has not only been my biggest supporter, but also the one who encouraged me to run for mayor.”

She thanked her transition team members for their help in guiding her to her new role as well as the media for “getting the message out” and its fair coverage of City Hall.

“I promise to work hard for you and make the best decisions for this place we love,” she said. “To quote Mother Teresa, ‘I can do things you cannot. You can do things I cannot. Together, we can do great things.”