St. Pete celebrates new and outgoing council members

A standing-room-only crowd packed St. Petersburg City Hall to celebrate a changing of the guard Thursday.

City Councilmembers Copley Gerdes (District 1) and Lisset Hanewicz (District 4) were officially sworn in as the 2025 chairperson and vice chairperson, respectively. Incoming Councilmembers Mike Harting (District 3) and Corey Givens Jr. (District 7) took their oaths for the first time at the ceremony.

The council recognized former Chairperson Deborah Figgs-Sanders’ leadership over the past year. She was also sworn in after successful reelection campaigns.

Mayor Ken Welch presented outgoing Councilmember John Muhammad with the city’s Distinguished Service Award. Muhammad was appointed to the dais following former Councilmember Lisa Wheeler-Bowman’s resignation. He chose to resign and resume his work as a community activist rather than pursue a second term.

“I want to thank you for stepping up to serve District 7 in a time of need,” Welch told Muhammad. “And we look forward to your continued service in our community.”

Gerdes said Muhammad’s willingness to serve and endure an “emotional garbage bag” provided a positive example for his children. He believes Muhammad’s subsequent decision to choose his best path forward was also a life lesson.

“I want my kids to know that just because you’re in a lane doesn’t mean you have to stay there,” Gerdes added. “You’re allowed to change course. And you should – if it’s not your call.”

Mayor Ken Welch presented Councilmember John Muhammad with the Distinguished Service Award.

Muhammad brought a baton as a symbolic gift to Givens, his successor in a district encompassing the South St. Pete Community Redevelopment Area. He said it represents the hopes, desires, confidence and trust “our residents placed in me when I was appointed, and now in you after being elected.”

Muhammad explained the importance of showing the community his time has passed, and the next generation is ready to lead. “If my time in office has shown us anything, I would like for it to be a demonstration that you don’t have to compromise your convictions in order to show compassion,” he said.

Givens, a fourth-generation St. Petersburg native, called Muhammad a mentor. He pledged to work for all residents, regardless of how they cast their ballots in November.

“Together, we can do the necessary work,” Givens said. “Together, we can get in good trouble and win the future for our children.”

Councilmember Brandi Gabbard said Harting brings an invaluable perspective to the dais due to his extensive background in local business. Harting is the founder and CEO of 3 Daughters Brewing and replaces former Councilmember Ed Montanari in a district encompassing the city’s lowest-lying neighborhood, Shore Acres.

Harting said the moment underscored his newfound responsibility to advocate for nearly 300,000 residents. He expressed his appreciation for the opportunity and an understanding of “what is expected of this seat.”

“I’m looking forward to getting started,” Harting added.

Incoming City Councilmembers Corey Givens Jr. (right) and Mike Harting share an embrace.

Gerdes previously served as the council’s vice chair and will now oversee meetings after his colleagues elected him to serve as chairperson at their Dec. 12 meeting. Gabbard called him a “great right hand” for Figgs-Sanders, and said she anticipates his leadership through a, hopefully, “calmer and more prosperous 2025.”

“I’m just very thankful my kids get to see me up here being authentic,” Gerdes said. “I think that’s the most important thing.”

The council, Welch and dozens of family members and supporters celebrated Figgs-Sanders’ year as chairperson. Several officials noted the challenges faced in 2024, from an unprecedented hurricane season to ardent debate surrounding the Historic Gas Plant District’s $6.57 billion redevelopment.

Gerdes thanked Figgs-Sanders for providing a “ray of sunshine” during challenging times. He said her well-timed smiles made “all the difference.”

Councilmember Richie Floyd said he eagerly anticipates “causing people some headaches” with Figgs-Sanders following her more temperate demeanor as a chairperson. Gabbard said her “landslide” reelection victory underscored her community support.

“I want to thank my colleagues because there is not just one vote – there’s eight of us,” Figgs-Sanders said. “Everything we’ve always done has been for the city.”

Councilmember Gina Driscoll expressed a “great deal of confidence” that Hanewicz and Gerdes would lead the dais with dignity. Hanewicz stressed the importance of familial support, community involvement and elections.

“Believe it or not, a lot happens at city council,” she added. “I see a lot of children here, and it’s important you get them involved early, so they understand … the future really is theirs.”

The 2025 city council. Photo: City of St. Petersburg.