Last month, Frederick’s 64th City Council was formally sworn in during a December 11th inauguration ceremony at the Weinberg Center for the Arts, marking the start of a new chapter in local governance. Mayor Michael O’Connor was joined by seven council members representing the city’s newly established district system and at-large seats. The ceremony drew community members, civic leaders, and residents eager to witness the transition to a council that reflects both continuity and change in Frederick’s leadership.
One of the most celebrated moments of the inauguration was the swearing-in of César Díaz as the councilmember for District 2. Díaz’s election is widely recognized in the community as a historic milestone, as he became the first Latino councilmember to serve on the Frederick City Council, a milestone that highlights the growing diversity of the city’s civic representation. A long-time resident and community advocate, Díaz’s presence on the council is seen by many as opening doors for broader representation of Frederick’s immigrant and Hispanic communities.
The at-large race was one of the most closely watched contests in the 2025 general election. Incumbent Derek Shackelford secured one of the two at-large seats with a narrow lead over his closest challenger, receiving 10,387 votes compared with Libby Taylor’s 10,360. According to the certified election results, Shackelford’s vote total made him the top vote-getter in the at-large field, a testament to his strong support across the city.
As the new council begins its term, members have emphasized priorities such as affordable housing, inclusive growth, and strengthening engagement with the city’s diverse neighborhoods. With a mix of seasoned leaders and new voices, the 64th administration is poised to tackle the challenges ahead while striving to broaden participation in local government and policy making.
Photo Credit: City of Frederick