New Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem Appointed

At its reorganization meeting this evening, the Novato City Council appointed Mayor Pro Tem Rachel Farac to serve as Mayor and Councilmember Kevin Jacobs as Mayor Pro Tem. Each will serve in that capacity for one year.

Outgoing Mayor Tim O'Connor passed the Mayoral Gavel to Mayor Farac during the meeting.

"Sitting here today as Mayor of Novato is one of the greatest honors of my life," said newly appointed Mayor Farac. "I am here because you believed in a shared vision - a Novato that grows thoughtfully, listens carefully and leads with heart. We've accomplished so much together already, and I am excited for what's ahead."

This will be Farac's first time serving as Mayor.

Novato is a "general law" city, which means its governance structure is specified by state law, and its Council selects the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem for one-year terms.

In recognition of Councilmember O'Connor's service as Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem Jacobs stated, "What I've appreciated most is your collaborative spirit. You treated the Council as partners, valued our input and reminded us all we are here for the same reason - to serve our community."

Completing his first term as Mayor, Councilmember O'Connor said, "Serving as Mayor for our wonderful City was truly a monumental honor. Adding to that, being the first immigrant to serve in the role holds a very special meaning to me. It's a memory I will cherish for the rest of my life. With this Council, I believe we have the right team in place to meet the challenges ahead and continue to move Novato forward."

The first meeting of the newly reorganized City Council will be held January 13, 2026.

Video of the reorganization will be available at novato.gov/watchmeetings.

For more information about the City Council, visit novato.gov/citycouncil.