Nancy Ross to be Sworn in as Mayor Tuesday

After Ross Sworn in as Mayor, Reception to Follow

CATHEDRAL CITY — Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Ross was elected Nov.3, 2020, to be the first representative for Cathedral City’s District 2. On Tuesday, Ross is poised to be sworn in as mayor of the second most populous city in the Coachella Valley with 51,493 people.

Ross was unopposed in her bid for re-election on Nov. 5. Rita Lamb faced two challengers and resoundingly efeated both

Ross will be sworn in at 5 p.m. Tuesday during a special City Council meeting in the Council Chamber, Cathedral City City Hall, 68-700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero. Councilmember Raymond Gregory is scheduled to be sworn in as Mayor Pro tem.

“Ross is doing a small reception after the swearing in, nothing too extravagant,” Ryan Hunt, Communications & Events Manager. “Just some light d’oeuvres including desserts, coffee, and some additional tabletops in the lobby for her family and friends to celebrate.”

The last time any type of reception was held following a swearing-in ceremony was in 2018 when the late Gregory S. Pettis was sworn in as mayor and newly elected Councilmembers Raymond Gregory and Ernesto Gutierrez were elected to office.  The event drew a standing-room-only crowd.

As Ross prepares to take on the mantel of mayor, Uken Report posed to her a few questions.

Uken Report (UR): What does becoming mayor mean to you? You are still just one vote?

Nancy Ross: The structure of our city does not make the mayor more powerful than any other councilmember; this is true. We 5 will continue to work as a team of equals, making decisions about how money is spent, appointing our commissioners, allocating resources to the many important projects that we have already earmarked for help and setting goals for our future. Additionally, I will continue our support of all of the cities in the Coachella Valley in a variety of ways.

So then, what would being the mayor mean to me? I have always spent my best time in the community speaking to our residents and business owners. Helping those in need and being able to hold meetings with communities and not shying away from the tough issues. After all, it is easy to please residents who are content but deeply rewarding to see people change their positions in a positive way with new information. “What can we do to make your life better” will be my mantra.

UR: What specific goals do you have as mayor?

Nancy Ross: I want to improve the way the government and citizens interact. Does this mean they don’t have to pay taxes or get permits? Of course not. What I mean is showing each person I am in contact with that I care about them, their aspirations and their families and that I am here to help. In doing so this will help us all.

UR: Is there added responsibility that comes with the title? What?

Nancy Ross: There will be added responsibilities on top of my current assignments and personal goals. The mayor is expected to attend scores of functions both to elevate our city and functions that are both fundraisers and evenings of comradery. We have additional committees and commissions to attend and scores of meetings. We meet one on one with citizens who are seeking help. It is with pride and honor that I accept this job and cannot wait to see all the things that, with our citizen volunteers joining me, will do to elevate Cathedral City and to bring new opportunities forward.

Additionally, this position comes with developing the trust of the people. Each person in Cathedral City will want to know that the elected officials that they have elevated to the dais are working towards their betterment each day. This sounds simple but is far from it. When you are in a position of responsibility you must tread lightly. What helps one might harm another. Each of us balance this issue daily. I promise to keep this in my mind and work with this goal daily.

UR: What is the first thing residents will see or experience from Mayor Ross?

Nancy Ross: You will see me throughout our community. Helping people, groups and those who will need us the most. I truly enjoy working with residents, volunteering my time, organizing community events and advocating for social justice. I will hold community meetings and listen to what the residents think of our efforts. When needed I will travel to Sacramento to speak with our leaders to join in the struggle for equality, health care options and changes that will benefit our residents most in need. I will join others in the opportunity to elevate our fine city through activism and to lend a helping hand when needed. I will strive to be a role model and service leader within our city and beyond.