In a ceremony tinged with historical resonance, Woodstock, Georgia, has recognized the pivotal role of former council member William Eugene Ogletree, the first Black person elected to its City Council, as part of its Black History Month celebration. According to a proclamation read by Mayor Michael Caldwell at a city council meeting, reported by the City of Woodstock's official website, Ogletree's contributions have helped shape the once small town into the budding city it is today.
When Ogletree first took office in Woodstock in 1987, he represented a population of less than 5,000, with Black residents comprising a mere one percent. As of today, with a city that burgeoned to nearly ten times that size, Black and African American residents account over twelve percent. Commended for his foresight and leadership, Ogletree was instrumental in pushing for key developments such as parks, business associations, and infrastructure improvements that have been vital to Woodstock's growth.
Joining the honored councilman at the recognition were his wife, Rosa, their three daughters, and a retinue of grandchildren and family friends. Ogletree's list of service to the community, beyond his role on City Council, is extensive, including positions on the Parks and Recreation Board, the Cherokee County Zoning Board of Appeals, and several other local associations. "Woodstock is the bold, collaborative, and authentic city we enjoy today because of contributions by its Black residents," Mayor Caldwell stated on the City of Woodstock's official website.
In a heartfelt moment of the proceedings, Caldwell addressed Ogletree directly, "On behalf of Council and the nearly 40,000 people who call this city home now, thank you," acknowledging that Woodstock owes much of its development to the dedication and vision of leaders like him. Notably, this isn't the first time Ogletree's leadership has caught the eye of higher officials. Ogletree was honored with proclamations from President Ronald Reagan and Georgia Governor Joe Frank Harris for his efforts against drug abuse, according to his own reflection on past achievements during the council meeting.
While reminiscing on his tenure, Ogletree noted, "What you see in downtown Woodstock is a plan we put in action thirty years ago," explaining that limited resources due to a smaller population had constrained the city's aspirations back then. Yet, his keen ability to "see ahead of time" was a catalyst for the city's transformation. In a crowning gesture, February 26, 2024, has been declared William Eugene Ogletree Day in Woodstock, cementing the legacy of a man whose service has indelibly marked the city's path towards a diverse and prosperous community.
