School principal to be Gaffney’s first Black mayor

GAFFNEY, S.C. (WSPA) — History was made Tuesday night, as Gaffney has its first-ever African American mayor.

According to unofficial results, Lyman Dawkins III received 68.1 percent of the votes in the runoff election.

He is the current principal at Gaffney Middle School, and a Cherokee County council member.

Dawkins received 1,286 votes while Moss received 605 votes.

Dawkins said he is hoping to focus on growing the city of Gaffney, specifically by improving infrastructure, recruiting new businesses, and beautifying the city.

We spoke with him following the results at a gathering at his church.

“It’s a historic moment for the city of Gaffney, being the first African American mayor is huge, it’s huge for me, huge for my family, and huge for the community,” said Lyman Dawkins II. “This is not my council or my city, this is ours.”

Dawkins has served on the Cherokee County Council for the last 7 years.

He said he will continue to serve as the principal at Gaffney Middle School, saying he’s looking forward to showing his students that you’re never too old to set and accomplish new goals, especially within your own community.

The results of the race will be certified Friday at 9 a.m.

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