Howell-Atkinson Takes Her Place on Oxford Board of Aldermen

By Alyssa Schnugg
News Editor
alyssa.schnugg@hottytoddy.com

Kesha Howell-Atkinson was sworn into office Tuesday as the new Ward 4 alderman.
Photo by Alyssa Schnugg

Oxford’s newest alderman Keisha Howell-Atkinson joined the rest of the Board of Aldermen Tuesday for the first time since being elected to the position her father, Ulysses “Coach” Howell held for 26 years.

Before the 5 p.m., Howell-Atkinson was sworn into office in a brief ceremony as the new Ward 4 alderman.

During the meeting, the Board of Aldermen approved the Official Recapultilation of the special election on July 2. The results were certified by the Lafayette County Election Commission.

After all of the votes were tallied, including affidavits and absentee votes, Howell-Atkinson received 97 votes. Her opponent, Arnold Pegues received 21 votes.

Both candidates expressed disappointment in voter turnout after the election.

A physical education teacher and coach at Oxford Middle School, Howell-Atkinson will serve as aldermen for the remainder of her father’s term until 2021.

“Ward 4 is Oxford’s Best example of the wonderful diversity of our community,” she said after the election. “I am proud of my ward. I grew up in this community and now serve as a teacher, coach, and as an active community volunteer. I will champion the needs of our community and will fight to ensure all citizens will be treated with respect and fairness.”

Howell-Atkinson is married to Brandon Atkinson and has a 6-year-old son in Bramlett Elementary.