It is with profound sadness that the City of Salisbury announces the passing of Mayor Karen Alexander, a dedicated public servant whose leadership and vision guided the city toward a brighter future. Mayor Alexander, first elected to Salisbury City Council in 2013, served as mayor during two separate terms beginning in 2015 and again in 2020. Throughout her tenure, she focused on strengthening the community’s economic base, expanding opportunities for residents, and enhancing the overall quality of life.
Mayor Alexander’s remarkable ability to build consensus and tackle tough challenges was evident in her collaborative approach to governance. She was instrumental in developing strategies that encouraged business growth, improved infrastructure, and fostered vibrant public spaces. She also prioritized public safety initiatives that created safer neighborhoods and reflected her steadfast commitment to the health and well-being of families, visitors, and the community at large.
Mayor Alexander was a compassionate leader who prioritized the needs of Salisbury’s residents and staff, consistently exhibiting empathy, fairness, and a hands-on approach. She actively sought the perspectives of community members and city employees, using their insights to guide her decisions and champion policies that fostered growth, safety, and inclusion. Her unwavering dedication to promoting the health and well-being of families, visitors, and the broader Salisbury community was a defining hallmark of her public service.
Mayor Pro Tem Tamara Sheffield expressed her condolences, saying, “Mayor Alexander was not only a visionary leader; she was a mentor and a friend whose passion for this city knew no bounds. From revitalizing our downtown to investing in our neighborhoods, her influence and dedication touched every corner of Salisbury. We will carry her spirit forward in our continued work and strive every day to live up to the standard she set.” She added, “Karen was not just a colleague but a dear friend, and she will be profoundly missed. She was truly a Mayor for all and I want to personally thank her family for sharing her with us.”
City Manager Jim Greene offered, “Mayor Alexander’s visionary thinking and collaborative leadership style set a high standard for public service. She consistently put the needs of Salisbury’s residents first. We are grateful for her enduring contributions and will honor her memory by continuing her work of creating a Salisbury for all.”
Details regarding memorial arrangements will be shared with the public once they are finalized. The City of Salisbury encourages everyone to keep Mayor Alexander’s family in their thoughts during this difficult time.