On Jan. 2 the City of Port Wentworth swore in new council member Shawn Randerwala (District 4), as well as Mark Stephens (District 2) and Mayor Pro Tem Thomas Barbee.

Randerwala, sworn in for his first term, is the first ever elected official in Chatham County of Indian descent. Stephens is sworn in for his second term, and Barbee will serve his third term. 

“I am honored to serve as the first Indian American elected official in Chatham County,” said Randerwala. “I have enjoyed my time on the city’s Planning and Zoning Committee as well as the development authority board, and I look forward to continuing to serve the Port Wentworth community.” Randerwala is a local business owner and has lived in Port Wentworth for over 14 years.

“My motto is serving people and the community,” said Barbee. “I am excited for this opportunity to continue supporting Port Wentworth’s residents during my third term. I am committed to working tirelessly to address the concerns of our constituents.” Barbee moved to Port Wentworth in August 2011, and soon after accepted the appointment for Community Watch Chairman of Rice Creek. Barbee was first elected in November 2015. 

“I’ve lived in Port Wentworth for over a decade, and I’m grateful for this opportunity to serve and represent my community,” said Stephens. “I am humbled by the trust that the people of this city have placed in me, and I take that responsibility very seriously.” Stephens has served as a Councilman since 2018. Outside of this role, Stephens is a Senior Cyber Security Specialist for a large corporation.