Overview

• Patrick Braxton, elected in 2020, will be Newbern's first Black mayor after a settlement ends a four-year dispute.
• The town, which has not held municipal elections for decades, will now conduct elections in 2025.
• Braxton faced significant resistance from the previous white mayor and council, who locked him out of office.
• The settlement requires the appointment of a new town council, with the possibility of a special election if appointments are not made.
• The town's finances will be independently audited, and the plaintiffs' attorney fees will be covered by town funds.