It is with a grateful heart that I announce to the Laurel Community that I will not seek reelection in November of this year.

I have had the great privilege and honor to serve as a Laurel City Council member for the past ten years, and now it is time for me to move into the next chapter of my life.

I am very proud to have made history by being elected as the first African American Woman to serve as a Laurel City Council member and as the first African American Woman to serve as Council President! 

One of the most rewarding experiences has been chairing the Citizens Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities. The Committee Members have worked very hard to create the Committee’s website, /boards/cacs/citizens-advisory-committee-persons-disabilities, which has a host of useful links, recommended readings, useful applications, and a reporting avenue for local ADA access issues.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mayor and City Council very successfully pivoted to an all-virtual platform to continue our regular meeting schedule, all while conducting regular business for our residents and taking the necessary steps to keep our citizens and employees safe.

To the Laurel Community thank you for the many years of support. I also want to thank my fellow Council Members and the Mayor for your partnership. Lastly, I would like to extend my appreciation to the great team of City employees and to the Laurel Police Department for their commitment and hard work. It has certainly been a pleasure working with all of you.

Valerie M.A. Nicholas

Council President

Laurel City Council