Branden Whitfield, New Council Members Officially Sworn In at Loganville City Hall

Loganville welcomed new leadership today as Branden Whitfield was formally sworn in as the city’s next mayor, joined by newly elected council members Keith Colquitt and Wesley Johnson, as well as returning Councilwoman Melanie Long. The ceremony, held at Loganville City Hall, marked a historic transition and the official conclusion of Mayor Skip Baliles’ tenure.

 

The swearing-in took place ahead of the year’s final combined City Council work session and regular meeting—an evening filled with gratitude for past service and anticipation for the city’s next chapter. While their terms do not officially begin until January 1, 2026, today’s ceremony allowed the community an opportunity to witness the transition of leadership firsthand.

 

Mayor Whitfield, who won the Nov. 4 election, thanked supporters and has pledged to continue fostering transparency, unity, and responsible growth in Loganville. His election marks a new era for the city as it navigates rapid development and a growing regional profile.

 

Alongside him, Melanie Long—one of the top vote-getters—was sworn in for another term, reaffirming her role on the council. Newcomers Keith Colquitt and Wesley Johnson also took their oaths, promising to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to city governance.

 

The ceremony was well attended by residents, city staff, and community leaders, many of whom expressed appreciation for outgoing Mayor Baliles’ years of service. Baliles presided over numerous major initiatives during his time in office and offered his best wishes to the incoming administration.

 

With today’s swearing-in complete, Loganville officially turns the page toward 2026 and the next phase of community leadership. The new mayor and council members will take their seats at the first meeting of the new year, ready to begin the work of guiding Loganville’s future.