Joseph Solomon, a Killeen city councilman, was elected mayor of the city on Saturday, securing victory with early voting results that held through the final unofficial count. Solomon received 1,857 votes, representing 41% of the total. The election drew three candidates to the race, with former Mayor Jose Segarra finishing second with 1,739 votes, or 38%, and incumbent Mayor Riakos Adams placing third with 934 votes, 21%.
Speaking to local media after results were released, Solomon expressed gratitude to campaign supporters and the Killeen electorate. "I want to thank everyone that contributed to the campaign in any way. Thank you to the citizens of Killeen. I'm excited for this moment and ready to go to work as mayor," he said. Segarra, despite falling short, congratulated Solomon and pledged continued involvement in city affairs. "Thank you, for all the people who supported me not just for this election but for the 14 years on the City Council. I look forward to continuing to help our city grow and move forward," Segarra stated.
Solomon had expressed cautious optimism about his prospects earlier in the day, but supporters at his election night gathering at Bubba's 33 were already addressing him as mayor before final tallies were announced. Several local figures attended the event to extend congratulations, including Killeen Councilwoman Jessica Gonzalez and Bell County Commissioner Bobby Whitson. Ernest Wilkerson, the Democratic Party candidate for Bell County Commissioners Court District 4, also made an appearance to embrace Solomon and offer his support.
Community ties appear to have played a significant role in Solomon's victory. He serves as campus pastor at the Christian House of Prayer, a prominent local congregation, and holds the position of executive director at the Refuge Corporation, an organization focused on food assistance and community aid. Robena Tomlinson, a church member, described Solomon's long-standing commitment to helping residents in need. "He's been making sure this community is fed," Tomlinson said, crediting both his church work and his leadership at the Refuge Corporation with making substantial impacts throughout Killeen.
