Merrideth Jeran Akers [1] (1947 - 2023) was the mayor of Plano, Texas from 2000–2002, [2] [3] and ran for the Republican nomination for Collin County Commissioner in 2006. [4]
Early life and career
Akers was born in Cordova, Alabama. Akers graduated from the University of Alabama in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing. While a student at Alabama, Akers was a member of the Air Force ROTC and the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, as well as the Arnold Air Society. [1] He served in the United States Air Force from 1969 to 1973, earning the rank of captain. While in the Air Force, Akers received a Master of Arts in Public Administration. After the Air Force, Akers moved to Texas in 1975 and lived in Plano, Texas since 1985. [5]
Political career
Akers served on the Plano City Council from 1993-1999, including as Deputy Mayor Pro Tem from 1997–1998 and Mayor Pro Tem from 1998-1999.
Akers was elected mayor on May 6, 2000, with 64.17% of the vote, defeating opponent Dick Bode. While Mayor of Plano, Akers founded the Collin County Mayors’ Alliance and was a member of the Metroplex Mayor’s Alliance. [5]
Akers served one term as mayor before being defeated by Pat Evans in 2002. [6]
Post-mayor life
In 2006, Akers lost election the Republican Primary for County Commissioner to Jack Hatchell. [7] From 2010 to 2013, Akers was the President and CEO of the Celina Chamber of Commerce. [5]
References
- ^ a b Corolla Yearbook. Tuscaloosa, AL: University of Alabama. 1969. p. 464.
- ^ Hundley, Wendy (May 16, 2000). "Solid support from east Plano helped Akers win mayoral bid Bode did well on west side, totals from narrow race indicate". Dallas Morning News. Retrieved 2009-04-10.
- ^ Hundley, Wendy (May 5, 2002). "Evans defeats Akers in race for Plano mayor". Dallas Morning News. Retrieved 2009-04-10.
- ^ Housewright, Ed (March 5, 2006). "Akers takes on Hatchell for court, while 2 challenge clerk". Dallas Morning News. Retrieved 2009-04-10.
- ^ a b c "Meet Jeran". The Jeran Akers for County Commissioner Website. Archived from the original on 2006-08-23. Retrieved 2006-07-07.
- ^ 2002 Election Results | http://www.co.collin.tx.us/elections/election_results/2002/050402/M402CAT.txt
- ^ 2006 Election Results | http://www.co.collin.tx.us/elections/election_results/2006/030706/030706CAT.htm