West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson was sworn in on Jan. 16, succeeding Councilwoman Sepi Shyne, left. Chelsea Lee Byers, right, now serves as the city’s vice mayor. (photo courtesy of the office of Lindsey P. Horvath)

A new era began for West Hollywood on Tuesday, Jan. 16, when John Erickson, who has served on the City Council since 2020, was sworn in as mayor. For the last year, Erickson has been the mayor pro tempore. The position has been retitled to vice mayor, and Chelsea Lee Byers was sworn in under this title, now serving as West Hollywood’s second-in-command.

“Last night was a night filled with love, community and all of us coming together in West Hollywood for what makes us so special as a city,” Erickson said. “It was really great to see everyone out there standing on the sides, in the back, on the floor in some cases, and [everyone] just taking time to not only thank our outgoing Mayor Sepi Shyne, but our incoming Vice Mayor Chelsea Byers. I certainly felt the love from all of the residents and community members yesterday, and I really appreciate it.”

Erickson and Byers’ fellow council members offered words of wisdom as the pair took on their new duties.

“Be present, mentally as well as physically,” Councilwoman Lauren Meister, who served two terms as mayor, said. “If your brain or your heart is somewhere else, you’re not really present, and you could miss out on all the really wonderful moments that are in the here and now.”

She also advised Erickson to “dial down the drama that sometimes comes with being a mayor.”

“The truth is people like to know that things are under control,” Meister said. “[My] wish for you is what I would wish for all leaders: grace under pressure, understanding before judgement, humility over arrogance, unity over divisiveness, and city before self. You will be the safe of this body. Wear it well, my friend.”

Councilman John Heilman wished Byers and Erickson well. Erickson served as Heilman’s intern and deputy on the City Council years before his election.

“I look forward to working with you closely in this coming year, and I know we’re going to have a successful one. Thank you for stepping up,” he said.

“I wanted to say to both of you, you can call me anytime – for guidance, a listening ear, any support you need – if you just want to go on a walk or a hike and not even talk, just be present, that’s OK, too. I’m here for you,” Shyne said.

Many dignitaries from the community and Los Angeles County appeared in support of Erickson and Byers, including Beverly Hills City Councilman Lester Friedman.

“I just want you to know that being vice mayor doesn’t mean you’re in charge of ‘vice,’ it’s just part of the title,” Friedman quipped.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, 3rd District, welcomed the pair to their new positions, as well. Horvath served on the City Council for many years, including two terms as West Hollywood mayor.

“I am so thankful for our friendship, for all that you do for our community and for all the ways you inspire so many people to be their truest, most authentic selves,” Horvath said. “I don’t how anyone could look at you and think anything else. And that’s incredibly special.”

A number of community members also spoke on behalf of Erickson and Byers, whose families were in attendance for the ceremony.

“Mayor John is an east side resident, as am I,” Yola Dore said, pointing out the ways she felt Erickson had supported small businesses and community engagement. “So, what do you think, is he gonna be a good mayor? Oh, yes, he is. And now, WeHo, do we have a great council? I should say we do. So, listen, you get out and enjoy yourself. And in the meantime, know we’re there for you too.”

Byers said she is excited to work alongside Erickson in the year ahead.

“I think John is going to be a really incredible leader for the city of West Hollywood,” Byers said. “I think we’re going to have a really great year ahead. What’s really important is this opportunity to bring new and different voices into the city. That’s what makes democracy stronger. And the two of us in leadership are already showing a transformation in what government and community leadership looks like.”

Byers said that her primary objective for the year ahead is to help foster connectivity in the community.

“My top goal is to help more people feel connected to city government in a meaningful way. That could be our board and commission members deepening their understanding and relationships with staff. And it could also look like getting more folks in the community to be engaged and vocal on the issues that are affecting them in their communities. Of course, staying focused on the top issues, public safety, transportation, mobility [and] housing is important, but I think it’s more about how we all work together and find those new working relationships that matters the most.”

The first regular meeting led by Erickson will occur on Jan. 22 at 6 p.m. For information, visit weho.org/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/27502/18.