Tonya Burns Defeats Sheldon Neeley for Flint Mayor

City Councilwoman Tonya Burns defeated incumbent Mayor Sheldon Neeley in the Tuesday general election to become the next mayor of Flint, Michigan. Burns secured approximately 54% of the vote, totaling more than 12,800 votes, while Neeley received about 44% with just over 10,400 votes.

Genesee County Clerk Domonique Clemons confirmed that remaining outstanding votes from one precinct were insufficient to change the outcome of the race. Mayor Neeley conceded the election, stating the transition allows him to refocus on his immediate family.

Burns, who has represented the 6th ward since 2021, will take office on December 1. She plans to implement a 100-day plan focusing on public safety, blight reduction, and City Hall transparency. She has specifically pledged to crack down on illegal dumpers and increase accountability within the city government.