The Tucson City Council convened on December 10, 2024, to address several key agenda items, including the selection of a new vice mayor, the appointment of a city court magistrate, and the renaming of a downtown underpass in honor of a late city administrator.
The meeting began with discussions regarding the appointment of a vice mayor. Due to the absence of Mayor Regina Romero, the city attorney outlined the process for selecting a vice mayor, which is governed by the city charter and a code provision approved in 2023. The council decided to extend the term of the current vice mayor until the next meeting in January, allowing for the full council's participation in the selection process. This motion was supported unanimously, with council members expressing appreciation for the evolving responsibilities of the vice mayor role.
Next, the council addressed the appointment of Murdoch Holloway as a full-time pro tempore magistrate. The city manager's communication highlighted Holloway's qualifications and experience, leading to a motion for his appointment. The council voted unanimously in favor, recognizing Holloway's potential contributions to the city court.
A significant moment in the meeting was the resolution to rename the Sixth Avenue Underpass in honor of Donovan Durban, a former Park Tucson administrator who passed away. Erin Durban, Donovan's wife, spoke passionately about her husband's legacy and the importance of the underpass as a connection point in the community. The council members echoed her sentiments, emphasizing Donovan's impact on downtown revitalization efforts. The resolution passed unanimously, marking a heartfelt tribute to Durban's contributions.
Finally, the council approved the appointment of Terry Train as the new director of the human resources department. The council expressed confidence in Train's ability to tackle the challenges ahead, and the appointment was also passed unanimously.
In summary, the Tucson City Council meeting highlighted important leadership transitions and commemorative actions, reflecting the council's commitment to community engagement and honoring significant contributions to the city. The next meeting is anticipated to further address the vice mayor selection and continue the council's work on various city initiatives.