Cleveland's newest city council member, Lauren Welch, is no stranger to Cleveland politics. With years of experience in community advocacy and leadership positions on boards like the Greater Cleveland Rapid Transit Authority, she's "humbled and honored" by her ascent to public office.

"I have a deep passion and heart for our city and its residents because I am one, and so to be able to be in this seat making decisions that impact them every day, advocating for them... I don't take that lightly," Welch said.

Welch was appointed to council on Monday by her new colleagues, replacing longtime Ward 3 council member Kerry McCormack, who announced last month he was resigning for a job with Flock Safety, a technology security camera company.

As many outgoing council members do, McCormack name

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