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Newbern, Alabama, has been at the center of a legal battle that has now been proposed to be settled. The town will see its first Black mayor, Patrick Braxton, take office as a result of this agreement. Braxton, a volunteer firefighter, had faced obstacles in assuming his elected position due to alleged interference by town officials.
The settlement, pending approval by U.S. District Judge Kristi K. DuBose, will mark the end of a dispute over town governance that has been ongoing for some time. It will also pave the way for Braxton to become Newbern’s first Black mayor and allow for the seating of a new city council.
Under the terms of the agreement, Braxton will be recognized as the lawful mayor of Newbern and will gain immediate access to town hall. The town council positions will be filled either by appointment or special election. Additionally, municipal elections are set to take place in 2025.
This development has been welcomed by Braxton and the community, signaling a positive step towards inclusive and fair governance in Newbern.