New Olive Branch alderwoman ready to serve
The Olive Branch Board of Aldermen will welcome a new face at its Tuesday meeting: newly elected Ward 5 Alderwoman Janet Aldridge.
Aldridge bested Dianne Black 104100 votes in a June 19 special election for the seat.
Aldridge is the widow of Mark Aldridge, who previously held the Ward 5 alderman seat. He was first elected to the post in 2013 and died of a heart attack in May.
"I'm honored to have the opportunity to finish out Mark's (term) as alderman. I know Mark would be so proud of my decision to run for election," Aldridge said. "We love Olive Branch and always want what is best for our city. I'm looking forward to continuing his work in making leadership decisions for Olive Branch."
Aldridge was sworn in June 22 by Olive Branch Mayor Scott Phillips. Some of her family and friends were present during the swearing-in ceremony and have served as a support system during her election run.
"It was not easy running for election so close to my husband's untimely death," Aldridge said. "I would love to thank my family and friends for their encouragement and support to run for alderman. I could not have done it without them and my voters."
Aldridge will serve until July 2021, the remainder of her husband's term. During her time in office, she plans to instill city pride and cater to the needs of Olive Branch residents.
"As alderman, I will invest my time to speak with and meet with the residents of Ward 5 to discuss any concerns and needs as they arise," Aldridge said. "I want Ward 5 residents to feel the sense of pride that Mark and I have always felt as citizens of Olive Branch and as aldermen. I intend to successfully help our residents resolve any issues that arise."
City Clerk Tina Griffith said 209 votes were cast in the special election.
"Ten of those ballots were provisional, and out of those 10 provisional ballots, five counted towards the election," she said.
Tuesday's board of aldermen meeting is at 6:30 p.m. at Olive Branch Municipal Court.