Patrick Braxton became the first Black mayor of Newbern, Alabama in 2020 (Courtesy of Michael Malcom).
June 26, 2024 Story by: Editor
Patrick Braxton, the first Black mayor of Newbern, Alabama, is set to officially assume his role under a proposed settlement agreement following a protracted legal battle. The settlement, filed on Friday, awaits approval from U.S. District Judge Kristi K. DuBose and aims to resolve the longstanding dispute over the town’s governance.
Braxton, 57, will be recognized as the rightful mayor of Newbern, a small town with a population of 133, located about 40 miles west of Selma. This agreement will also facilitate the seating of a new city council. Braxton expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “I’m pleased with the outcome and the community is pleased. I think they are more pleased that they can voice their opinion and vote.”
For decades, Newbern operated under a system where town officials were appointed rather than elected, resulting in a predominantly white government despite the town’s Black residents outnumbering white residents by a 2-1 margin. In 2020, Braxton, a Black volunteer firefighter, ran unopposed for the nonpartisan mayoral position and thus became mayor-elect. However, upon attempting to assume office, he encountered numerous obstacles.
Braxton and his supporters filed a lawsuit against the town, alleging that officials “conspired to prevent the first Black mayor from exercising the duties and powers of his new job” and impeded the majority-Black council from being seated. They claimed that town hall locks were changed, and Braxton was denied access to town bank accounts. Additionally, it was alleged that the outgoing council held a secret meeting to arrange a special election, fraudulently reappointing themselves.
Town officials denied any wrongdoing, asserting in court filings that Braxton’s claim to the mayoral position was “invalid” and that the special election was conducted properly. However, under the proposed settlement, Braxton will gain immediate access to town hall, and current town officials will step down from their positions and cease their responsibilities.
The new city council members will be appointed by Alabama Governor Kay Ivey or a special election will be held if appointments are not made. Furthermore, Newbern will hold municipal elections in 2025.
The NAACP Legal Defense & Educational Fund, representing Braxton and his council appointees, has declined to comment on the settlement. An email sent to the lawyer representing the defendants was not immediately returned. Source: Citrus County Chronicle
