Vermilion Mayor-elect Russell Owens was formally sworn in Tuesday afternoon during a small ceremony held at the Vermilion Municipal Courtroom.
The oath of office was administered by Vermilion Municipal Judge Zack Dolyk at approximately 4:15 p.m. The ceremony was attended by roughly 30 people, including family members, friends, and local officials.
Those present included Erie County Commissioner Matt Old, incoming Vermilion Municipal Judge Kenny Leieux, Ward 5 Councilman Alec Bonawit, Vermilion Police Chief Chris Hartung, Sgt. Detective Scott Holmes, and members of Owens’ immediate family.
Although the oath was administered Tuesday, Owens’ term as mayor does not begin immediately. His new term officially starts January 1.
Following the swearing-in, Owens offered brief remarks thanking those in attendance and reflecting on his path to public office.
“This is something that I started a long, long time ago, and I really never thought I would be ending up here,” Owens said. “I’m very proud to represent my family, to represent my friends, to represent the citizens of this beautiful town.”
Owens emphasized his commitment to serving all residents of Vermilion.
“I promise you that I will represent every citizen of this town to the best of my ability,” he said. “I want to thank everybody for your support, your kindness, your help. It means so much to me, and I’m going to need it from everybody moving forward.”
After the oath was administered, Owens spent time thanking attendees one by one, greeting supporters and sharing brief conversations before the gathering concluded.
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