Erickson, Hang sworn in to WeHo city council terms

Wave Staff Report

WEST HOLLYWOOD — John M. Erickson and Danny Hang were sworn in to terms on the City Council Dec. 16 after winning election Nov. 5. 

Erickson’s oath of office was administered by Brian Sonia-Wallace and Hang’s oath of office was administered by former Councilman John D’Amico. 

Erickson was first elected to the City Council in 2020 with the commitment to uphold the city’s founding vision for a forward-thinking, diverse and tolerant community. Hang was elected to the council Nov. 5. His legislative priorities include getting unhoused neighbors off the streets and into housing with supportive services; building more affordable housing while protecting and expanding renters’ rights; protecting workers and marginalized groups; uplifting local businesses; and creating a safer and healthier community. 

Also during the Dec. 16 meeting, Chelsea Lee Byers was elected by her council colleagues as the city’s next mayor with John Heilman chosen as the next vice mayor. Byers and Heilman will be sworn in to their new roles Jan. 13. A reception will immediately follow.

Byers was elected to the City Council in 022. Her priorities include social service delivery, climate-change mitigation strategies and emergency resiliency efforts; creating more affordable housing and resources for renters; enhancing the streetscape for improved pedestrian and cycling experiences while reducing vehicle-dependency; and community building and policy implementation to ensure an inclusive community for all.

Heilman was active in the incorporation of the city and was elected to the first City Council in 1984 and he was chosen as the city’s second mayor in 1985. He is one of the longest-serving openly gay elected officials in the United States. 

       
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