New San Angelo City Officials Sworn In as Thompson Becomes Mayor

SAN ANGELO, TX — Newly elected officials were sworn in Tuesday morning during a special session of the San Angelo City Council, marking a transition in city leadership.

The ceremony at the McNease Convention Center included oaths of office for Mayor Tom Thompson, District 4 Councilmember Patrick Keely, and District 6 Councilmember Mary Coffey.

Before taking the oath for mayor, Thompson formally resigned his District 2 council seat.

“I formally resign my position as city council member for Single Member District 2,” Thompson said. “The seat will remain vacant pending the results of the runoff election for June 7, 2025.”

Keely, who won the District 4 seat, thanked his family, supporters, and voters on both sides of the election.

“We had a pretty good turnout. I love that—that’s what I was looking for,” he said.

Coffey, elected unopposed in District 6, said she was eager to get started.

“I’m ready to get to work for you, for everyone in this room,” Coffey said. “Thank you for the vote of confidence, for your faith in the process … We got good people, and they’re ready to go to work just like I am.”

After his resignation, Thompson was sworn in as mayor. He reflected on his eight years of service and thanked his family and supporters.

“I thank God for putting me in this spot at this time,” Thompson said. “You take moments like this … and you take opportunities to ask, ‘Why?’ and ‘Why not?’ If somebody says you can’t do something, you say, ‘Well, why not?’”

Outgoing councilmembers Lucy Gonzales and Larry Miller were recognized for their service. Gonzales, who represented District 4 for 10 years, delivered an emotional farewell.

“It has truly been an honor and a privilege,” Gonzales said. “To my husband, thank you for your unwavering support. … To the citizens of San Angelo, thank you. … Being a part of this community and this council has been one of the greatest honors of my life.”

Former Mayor Brenda Gunter was honored for her eight years in office, with highlights from her work on water infrastructure, economic development, and downtown revitalization. Gunter delivered her final remarks from the podium.

“I committed when I ran for mayor that we would take care of the primary responsibilities of the city of San Angelo, and that would be street infrastructure, police and fire, and make sure that we had enough water for the future,” she said. “I’m proud to say today that we have negotiated enough water to take us through the next 70 years plus.”

She also acknowledged the role of community and staff in supporting the city’s progress.

“Thanks to everyone here, city staff, city management and everyone else for what you have done to make this city great,” Gunter said.

At the end of the ceremony, Gunter was honored with the Key to the City for her contributions.

The council recessed following the swearing-in for a public reception and was scheduled to resume the regular meeting afterward.