CEDAR CITY – Joe Burgess took office as Cedar City’s mayor and Nina Barnes and Ron Adams were sworn in as city councilors Monday at noon in the city’s council chambers.

Outgoing mayor Gerald R. Sherratt and Councilor Jolene Goff were given plaques by City Manager Ron Chandler and thanked for their service.

Chandler said he has worked with a lot of mayors and learned a lot about city management, but from Sherratt he has learned about community building.

Burgess said he would also like to thank Sherratt for his contributions to the city.

“Cedar City is a better place to live today than it was eight years ago,” he said.

Fifth District Juvenile Court Judge Thomas M. Higbee administered the oath of office and Burgess and Adams officially began their first terms in their respective positions. Barnes began her second term as city councilor.

Higbee said he knew Burgess, Barnes and Adams personally and they would all do well in their offices.

After being sworn in, Burgess said he has been looking at a “Mayors of Cedar City” book Sherratt gave him and he realizes that Cedar City is still facing many of the problems every other administration has faced, such as water and simply balancing the budget.

He said he looks forward to working with the council and city staff, and it is important to work together to overcome challenges.

Burgess said he is in the mayor’s office for his grandchildren and the children and grandchildren of other residents. He wants to help make the community an even better place.

“I want to thank all of you and let’s move forward,” he said.

Barnes said it has been a great privilege to serve and she is looking forward to the next four years, and Adams said he has enjoyed the opportunity to serve on the Board of Adjustments the past six years and is looking forward to his new opportunity.