Lake Charles, Louisiana — The city of Lake Charles will mark a significant transition in local government as Mayor-elect Marshall J. Simien, Jr. and seven City Council members take their oaths of office during a public swearing-in ceremony scheduled for Monday, June 30, 2025. The event, open to all residents, will be held at the Sudduth Coliseum in the Lake Charles Event Center, located at 900 Lakeshore Dr., starting at 6:30 p.m.
New Faces, New Term
The upcoming ceremony will formally introduce the community’s newly elected leadership. Alongside Mayor-elect Simien, the City Council will welcome Ronnie Harvey, Jr., Donald Fondel, Tommy Bilbo, Matthew “Matt” Young, Stuart Weatherford, Craig Marks, and Matthew Vezinot. Each council member will represent a district within the city and serve a term that officially begins on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.
What Happens During a Swearing-In Ceremony?
A swearing-in ceremony is an official event where elected officials publicly take an oath to uphold the laws and constitution. This process signals the start of their term in office and reinforces their commitment to serving residents. The event often includes speeches, the administration of the oath of office, and sometimes, light refreshments.
Community Engagement and Transparency
City officials encourage all Lake Charles residents to attend the ceremony. Public events such as this contribute to government transparency, allowing citizens to witness the transition of power and meet their elected leaders in person.
Contact Information
For further details regarding the ceremony, residents can contact Katie Harrington at 337-491-9176 or via email at [email protected].
Looking Ahead
With the new mayor and council members assuming office, Lake Charles is positioned to continue its growth and address community priorities. The city council and mayor play a key role in making decisions about public safety, infrastructure, economic development, and city policies. Residents are encouraged to participate in local government, whether by attending meetings, voicing their opinions, or staying informed about upcoming initiatives.
As the city prepares for this leadership transition, the June 30 ceremony stands as an important opportunity for residents to engage with their government and witness the ongoing evolution of Lake Charles.