Tristan Rader Officially Sworn In At Lakewood City Council

LAKEWOOD, OH — One of Lakewood's two new city councilpersons was officially sworn-in on New Year's Day at City Hall Auditorium. Tristan Rader, who received 4,556 votes in the November general election, was welcomed to his new position by State Senator Michael Skindell, former U.S. Representative Dennis Kucinich and others.

"I am very much looking forward to serving the residents of Lakewood and creating a rich and vibrant discourse on city council," Rader told Patch.

Kucinich was scheduled to be present at the event in-person, but came down with the flu. Skindell stepped in for the former mayor of Cleveland. Kucinich did send along some remarks that Skindell shared with the group.

Rader hit the pavement hard during election season, spreading a campaign message of a more open and communicative government. He has said he thinks there is room for more discourse and, occasionally, dissent on city council.

He has added that he wants to make residents more aware of various programs offered by the city. He has also been encouraged by Lakewood's work on educating residents on the dangers and ills of the opioid crisis.

Read more about Rader's campaigning by clicking here.

Rader's fellow new councilperson, Meghan F. George, will be sworn in Tuesday prior to the regular council of the whole meeting. The two newcomers received the most votes out of the field. Incumbents Ryan P. Nowlin and Cindy Marx lost their seats in the election.

Tom Bullock maintained his seat after a recount.

Photos from Rick Uldricks, Patch