Molly Espino was sworn in as mayor of Torrington and delivered an inaugural address on unity, accessibility and service at a ceremony held at Torrington High School.

Espino, introduced and administered the oath by the presiding official, told the audience she sees the role not as authority but as "a commitment to serve" and pledged to be reachable and transparent. "I will always be accessible, always be honest, and always be willing to have the tough conversations," Espino said, adding that her time in the U.S. Marine Corps shaped her approach to leadership.

The mayor laid out priorities she said the administration will address: budgeting, infrastructure, schools, economic development and public safety. She framed the work of the coming term as team-based, calling on boards, departments, nonprofits and residents to collaborate: "Together as one team, one Torrington, and one community, there is nothing we cannot achieve," Espino said.

The event also included ceremonial remarks, an invocation and the national anthem. Reverend Darlene Battle, pastor of New Hope Tabernacle of Praise, offered an invocation asking that the city and its officials be guided and blessed. "We ask you to bless Torrington," Battle said.

Dozens of other officials and appointees were sworn in during the ceremony. The Board of Public Safety saw commissioners confirmed by oath, and multiple constables, members of the Board of Education, selectmen, city council members, the city treasurer and the city and town clerk also repeated sworn oaths administered by notaries and justices of the peace. City Clerk Carol Anderson and Treasurer Daniel T. Farley were among those mentioned by name during the proceedings.

Guest elected officials offered brief remarks encouraging the newly sworn officials to listen to constituents and to work across differences. State Senator Paul Honig called public service "an honor" and urged officials to use their offices to serve the community. Other members of the state delegation and local dignitaries were recognized earlier in the program.

The ceremony concluded with a benediction from Reverend Battle and brief logistical instructions: attendees were directed to proceed to the high school cafeteria for light refreshments.

The swearing-in marks the formal start of the new and returning officials' terms; the mayor and newly sworn boards and officers will take up their duties as prescribed by city rules and state law.