Markeshia Ricks Photo
Dixwell Alder Jeanette Morrison is the Board of Alders new president pro tempore.
Morrison (pictured above with Amity/Beverly Hills Alder Richard Furlow) was unanimously elected at Monday night’s board meeting to the number two position, which was left vacant when West River Alder Tyisha Walker ascended to the board’s presidency. Walker became president when longtime Hill Alder Jorge Perez was tapped to become the new state banking commissioner. (Read about that here, here and here.)
Morrison is a second-term alder, who was first elected in the labor landslide of 2011. She has been a part of the board leadership, serving as the deputy majority leader. In her new position, she is next in line to serve as board president if the current president leaves the post.
Newhallville Alder Delphine Clyburn, who nominated Morrison, pointed out that Morrison has been instrumental in securing the new Q House, “a victory for Dixwell and Newhallville,” she said. She also sponsored legislation that allows people to pay car taxes in two payments.
East Rock Alder Jessica Holmes called Morrison “one of our most tenacious members.” Holmes said she admires Morrison because she asks questions and “won’t let it go” until she gets answers.
Morrison said that she was honored that her colleagues had entrusted her with the position. “I’m here for everybody,” she said. “If I’m not doing right, pull my coattail.”