G.T. Bynum Takes Office As Tulsa's New Mayor

Former City Councilor G.T. Bynum was sworn as Tulsa's 40th Mayor Monday afternoon.

There was a lot of enthusiasm for the new mayor's administration as Bynum takes office.

A large crowd filled Central Library as the city administration changed hands, with the biggest change at the top.

"It's time to build the city of our dreams," Bynum said. 

Bynum said he hoped to make Tulsa internationally competitive, with new ideas and a lot of hard work.

"We have our chance to work hard and take on the great challenges that our generation faces," Bynum said. 

A new city council was sworn in, with two members of the council brand new to the job.

Councilor David Patrick is now the most experienced politician at city hall.

"I think the cooperation between the mayor's office and the council will be fantastic," Patrick said. 

That started with new council and new mayor together as councilors chose their new chair, Councilor Anna America, and approved Bynum's city hall reorganization plan.

"I'm just humbled and blessed for the opportunity and I'm looking forward to serving my community," said City Councilor Ben Kimbro.  

Bynum said he is ready to work.

"And so the chance to get finally started, after this 160 day transition period is very exciting," Bynum said. 

It's the first time a councilor has advanced directly to the mayor's office.

Kimbro takes Bynum's place on the council.

"I'm very excited to work with him.  I've known him professionally for years," Kimbro said. "A lot of things that we want to do together, are a shared vision."

Bynum has a lot of meetings this week to build on some new relationships, with education leaders, the council and the county government.

Bynum isn't the first in his family to run city hall.

The first Mayor Bynum served in 1900.

G.T. Bynum's uncle, former Mayor Bill LaFortune, administered the oath of office.

And while Bynum spoke, his grandfather, former Mayor Robert LaFortune, was on the front row.

"I told him afterwards I couldn't look at him during my speech or I knew I would get choked up," Bynum said. "I'm so thankful he could be here today, work with me in the campaign, work with me in the transition and now work with me as I'm moving ahead as mayor. He's been my hero my whole life, so it was really special he be in the front row today."

Mayor Robert LaFortune served two terms, starting in 1970.