The Cape Girardeau City Council gathered in a special meeting Monday afternoon to administer oaths of office to new and returning members.

John Voss surrendered his council seat to Joseph Uzoaru, the new Ward 1 representative elected last week. Shelly Moore replaced Meg Davis as the new Ward 2 representative.

Uzoaru said he's made an effort over the past few months to learn more about the city's issues and governmental process, in preparation for this day.

"I'm doing everything I can to be ready for the meeting," he said, referring to his first official council meeting Monday. "I read through the city budget a few months ago, hoping to be in that seat."

Despite his research, the new councilman said he realizes there will be more to learn as he adjusts to the position, but is excited to be part of the many things happening in the city.

After taking her oath and seeing the new nameplate that designates her seat among the other council members, Moore said she felt overwhelmed.

"I know the expectancy is high," she said.

But Moore holds another title besides Ward 2 councilwoman; she's also the first African-American woman to hold a seat on the Cape Girardeau City Council.

She said learning she was the first was a shock, but only added to her excitement of becoming a new council member.

"It really means a lot," she said. "It's amazing. It's history-making. I have no words."

Councilman Wayne Bowen also took an oath to continue representing Ward 6 for another term. He ran unopposed in the April election.

Likewise, Mayor Harry Rediger was sworn in to serve his second term as mayor.

Rediger congratulated Moore and Uzoaru and extended his welcome to the council.

"We will act as one team," he said. "We have a lot of work to do, exciting work, in the next few years. I look forward to getting to work at our next Monday meeting."

Council members Mark Lanzotti, Loretta Schneider and Wayne Bowen also congratulated the two as Davis and Voss stood from their chairs at the council podium and offered them to the new members.

The newly formed council will convene Monday night at its regular meeting.

srinehart@semissourian.com

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Pertinent address:

401 Independence St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.