By Zoë Pickett

Amanda Sexton has resigned from her position as Mayor of the Village of Shongaloo, effective February 17, 2026. Mayor Pro Tem, Ann Sexton, will serve as mayor until the Governor appoints a successor or the council calls for a special election.

Sexton was appointed by the Governor on February 27, 2025, and later elected unopposed on July 21, 2025. In her statement, she said her decision came after “much thought and prayer” and was made to ensure her voice and perspective were clearly shared.

“When I took my oath, I did so with a sincere commitment to lead with integrity, serve selflessly, and work toward meaningful growth for our community,” Sexton stated.

During her tenure, Sexton focused on strengthening the village financially, supporting the fire department, and expanding opportunities for families and youth. She highlighted efforts to pursue grant funding, improve the civic center, and establish a partnership with Universal Youth Athletics, which she said provided financial relief to the village while increasing youth programming.

She also coordinated with the police jury on road striping, ditch maintenance, and pothole repairs, and worked to support the local commodities program and volunteers who serve the community.

Sexton acknowledged that some initiatives were met with resistance, particularly those involving change and long-term growth.

“Leadership requires both effort and alignment,” she said. “When that alignment is no longer present, it becomes increasingly difficult to serve effectively.”

She noted the mayor’s role is unpaid and voluntary, and that she personally contributed time and financial resources during her service. One highlight of her term, she said, was hosting the village’s first annual Christmas celebration in 2025.