Dame City Commission Swearing-In and Installation of New Officers - January 6, 2026

The Dame City Commission convened a special meeting pursuant to the City Charter to review election certificates and officially swear in newly elected officials: Mayor Shanice Turner Sloss, and Commissioners Darrell Fairchild and Darius Beckham, for terms ending January 7, 2030. The meeting featured invocations, the presentation of colors, musical performances by Stuvers School for the Arts Orchestra, and lengthy addresses from incoming officials and the outgoing Mayor Jeffrey Mims. The session concluded with the administration of oaths of office and a benediction.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Bishop Robert Lyons (Tabernacle Church): Delivered the invocation, expressing a position of reliance on divine intervention for the city. He acknowledged existing issues of violence, homelessness, famine, and economics but declared a belief that God is "better than all of that" and not surprised by the city's struggles. He specifically asked for leaders to "not bow down to Baal" and to understand the gravity of their office.
• Mayor Jeffrey Mims: Expressed full support for the incoming team and a position of gratitude for the city's progress. He called for the public to put their "shoulder to the wheel" alongside the new administration, emphasizing that continued public support is essential for the city's future.
• Commissioner Joseph: Expressed congratulations and a position of looking forward to collaboration with the new mayor and colleagues to solve ongoing city challenges.
• Commissioner Shaw: Expressed deep appreciation for the service of former Mayor Mims and congratulations to the incoming commissioners. He positioned Mayor Sloss as a long-time community leader he has "grown and risen" with, and welcomed Commissioner Beckham as "new blood" and "new energy."
• Commissioner Darius Beckham: Delivered a speech rooted in conviction and local history. He expressed a position that Dayton's strength lies in "people," not just physical projects, and committed to a city where public safety, housing, and youth opportunities are addressed through shared responsibility. He honored the legacy of Karen Wick and his parents, and stated he serves not as a politician but as a "son and a servant of Dayton."
• Commissioner Darrell Fairchild: Expressed a position of gratitude and reflection. He stated his commitment to "reimagining public safety" comprehensively (both downtown and in neighborhoods), serving as an "ambassador for compassion" for vulnerable groups (including transgender children and immigrants), and setting a goal to increase home ownership from 48% to the national average of 65% over 17 years. He emphasized the values of excellence, respect, integrity, and accountability.
• Mayor Shanice Turner Sloss: Delivered the commencement address, expressing a position that the era of "doing business as usual" ends today. She outlined a "Dayton Flight Plan" prioritizing resident-centered governance, reimagined public safety focusing on prevention rather than punishment, and stronger business relationships. She explicitly stated the administration will govern with "clarity, courage, and with the people at the center," and urged residents to join three new advisory committees.

Key Outcomes

• Election Certification: The Commission reviewed and accepted election certificates from the Montgomery County Board of Elections confirming the election of Shanice Turner Sloss, Darrell Fairchild, and Darius Beckham.
• Oaths Administered:
  • Mayor Shanice Turner Sloss took the oath of office, administered by Honorable Ryan McLynn.
  • Commissioner Darrell Fairchild took the oath of office.
  • Commissioner Darius Beckham took the oath of office, administered by Mr. Troy Beckham.
• Official Installation: The Dayton City Commission officially declared the new officers installed and the administration established.
• Strategic Directives: Mayor Sloss announced the immediate formation of three new advisory committees: People Centered Governance, Reimagining Public Safety, and a Business Advisory Committee. She also referenced a recently approved service agreement to reduce permitting turnaround times (1 week for small projects, 30 days for large projects).
• Budget Directives: Mayor Sloss directed that the Cure Violence Interruption Program be made a "permanent line item" in the city budget.
• Meeting Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned following the benediction.