Michael Sessions, 18, one of the youngest mayors in the country took the oath of office on Monday.

Sessions registered to vote on September 22, a day after his birthday. He started his write-in campaign in the town of 8,200 the day after that, using US$700 from a summer job.

On November 8, local voters cast their vote. The incumbent mayor Douglas Ingles was defeated by just two votes. Ingles called for a recount on November 15th.

The city attorney said a new mayor could not be sworn in until election recount issues are settled. The legal opinion led to a hastily called Hillsdale city council meeting.

Michael Sessions found out about the meeting while attending the Ohio State/Michigan game in Ann Arbor and had to leave the game to attend the special meeting.

Fortunately, Ingles withdrew request for recount.

Michael Sessions smiled and expressed relief. "I thank Mr Ingles for giving me the opportunity to be inaugurated on Monday. He's done a great deal of public service work and it should be applauded."

Sessions' top priority after taking office will be to heal wounds between the city and its fire, police and service employees. Economic development and jobs will also take top billing, according during the Sessions' administration.

Source: China Daily