Youmas Sworn In As Commissioner, Ringersen Named Vice-Mayor In 3-2 Vote

ALACHUA – Jackson Youmas was sworn in as Alachua City Commissioner for Seat 3 at Monday's commission meeting, stepping into the role following his victory in the April 14, 2026, city election. The evening also served as a formal farewell to outgoing Commissioner Dayna Williams, who completed her eight years of service, and produced a contested vice-mayor vote that ended with Commissioner Jennifer Ringersen claiming the seat 3-2.

Ringersen wins vice-mayor vote in split decision

Immediately after the swearing in, the commission turned to electing a vice mayor, a required annual action under the city charter following each city election. City Manager Valladares called for nominations.

Commissioner Shirley Green Brown nominated Ringersen, while Youmas nominated Commissioner Jacob Fletcher. With two names on the table, Valladares called a roll-call vote on the Ringersen nomination.

Fletcher voted nay, stating it would be a disservice to vote for Ringersen when he was also nominated. Ringersen voted aye. Youmas voted nay. Mayor Walter Welch voted aye4, and Green-Brown, who had made the nomination, voted aye, delivering Ringersen the vice mayor seat by a 3-2 margin.

Dayna Williams says goodbye

Before the vote on the vice mayor, the commission honored Williams, who served as city commissioner from 2018 to 2026 and as vice mayor in 2020 and 2023. Valladares presented her with a commemorative gavel plaque on behalf of the city, crediting her dedication and thoughtful decision making during her years guiding the city through important initiatives and challenges.

Williams then addressed the chamber in remarks that drew sustained applause.

“Serving the city of Alachua for the past eight years has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Williams said. “I truly believe that seasons in life have purpose, and I feel at peace knowing that mine has come to a close.”

She made personal remarks to each of her colleagues on the dais. To Youmas, she offered both encouragement and an open door: “I want to thank you for having the guts and bravery to just run for office. That alone takes a big leap of faith. You've got a big job. I know you know that, and I want you to know I will be here if you have any questions.”

She praised Green-Brown as a mentor and maternal figure, called Ringersen a friend and praised her growth as a commissioner, expressed hope for productive differences with Fletcher, and thanked City Manager Valladares, calling him “my rock,” for his guidance over the years. She said she and Welch had learned a lot from each other.

“I was a part of this community before I got elected. I will continue to be a part of this community afterwards,” Williams said, drawing laughter when she quipped near the end of her remarks: “I thought I was going to make it short, but I guess I didn't, and I apologize. But what are you going to do? Fire me?”

Youmas addresses his election, sets tone for service

Near the close of the meeting, during commissioner comments, Youmas spoke at length about why he ran and how he intends to serve.

He thanked supporters and offered what amounted to a statement of purpose, pushing back against media coverage and public speculation about his motivations and the circumstances of his candidacy.

“People never came and asked me,” Youmas said. “I was at CVS, but I met people from this community, all walks of life, from Turkey Creek to Legacy and everywhere else, and they told me their concerns, and it had nothing to do with Commissioner Fletcher or the mayor.”

He confirmed that Fletcher and Mayor Welch had encouraged him to run, but rejected any suggestion of a coordinated back-room arrangement. His wife, Robin Youmas, told the commission during public comment that Fletcher and the mayor had encouraged him because they recognized him as a good man and believed he would be an asset to the community, not because of any hidden agenda.

Youmas, who described himself as a licensed minister, said his decision to run came only after prayer and reflection. “That's how I move. I'm a man of God,” he said. “And I want to thank the community for just believing in me. Every vote we got, we earned it, by meeting people where they were.”

He closed with a call for the commission to move away from division and focus on the work. “All the drama, all the ‘he-said-she-said’, all that kind of stuff has got to stop. It's time for business. It's time to be real and serious about what we do and take care of the people. Let's show it. Let's do it. Let's do it together.”

Youmas will serve a three-year term for Seat 3.

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