As you know, Dr. Curtis Haynes Jr. was voted in as Ellicott District Councilmember in a 6-2 vote. His acceptance speech calls for cooperation and commitment, and Haynes said he intends to reach out to every other candidate who sought the Ellicott seat in order to work together toward the betterment of the district.
Prior to the vote that resulted in Haynes’ appointment, Councilman Demone Smith, who was in favor of the appointment of Rev. Darius Pridgen, held the floor and protested consideration of any candidate other than Pridgen, based on the Ellicott District Democratic Committee vote that favored Pridgen. See the wnymedia.net video, below.
Though it’s barely audible through Smith’s tirade, the vote was tallied, and Haynes was able to make his acceptance speech. “My mind is open, and I extend my hands,” Haynes stated. He goes on to talk about the challenges of the area and calls for solutions and commitment. At the end of his speech, Haynes goes to each councilmember for a handshake, and ends by embracing Smith, as those gathered cheer. (WNYMedia Video below.)
Image: Still from wnymedia.net video