As George steps aside, Hamilton steps up, takes over as Burlington mayor

Gerald “Jerry” George, who won his first election as mayor of Burlington in 2016, recently resigned the position. 

“It has been an honor to serve as mayor for about eight years. Burlington is a wonderful community, with wonderful people and schools,” said George. “No community does well unless many people volunteer and serve. Volunteer firefighters, EMTs, cemetery and recreation district boards, youth coaches, 4-H volunteers and so on are vital. Many people have worked hard to move the community forward during my term.” 

Growth and development have been a focus of George’s two terms. “We have joined with the Big Horn Regional Water system for our drinking water, have been expanding and upgrading our sewage treatment capabilities and are replacing our old water tank. Ordinances have been updated and our community has been growing rapidly. I’m proud of these accomplishments, but want to make it clear that all the good things accomplished have been a result of many people serving in the past and present. I’m grateful to have been a part of the process.” 

With the town wrapping up some of those big projects, George feels this is a good time for transition of leadership. “We are putting together a new development plan for the future. It seems to me that the leaders who will implement the plan ought to be the ones who help shape it.” 

George has big plans of his own and will be busy working on his own project. “For many years, I have been gathering information about the history of this area. My curiosity has led to some real treasures and I feel compelled to make them available to the public. I’ve tried to work on this while serving as mayor and the pace has been pitifully slow. I need to carve out more time so I can concentrate on that aspect of my public service.

“I resign feeling pleased with what has been accomplished, knowing full well there are many things that still need attention, and feeling confident in the new leadership. I thank the residents who have supported me personally and the community in general. Everyone needs to find a way to serve and contribute.” 

Jessie Hamilton will be replacing George as mayor until the 2026 election. Hamilton has been serving on the town council since 2022. “We felt like we should select a person from the existing council to fill the position until the next election, when voters can vote. The town council selected me to serve as mayor. At this time, I do not wish to run for mayor on the 2026 ballot. I have enough to do in life already, maybe someone with a little more time can step in and serve,” said Hamilton. 

“I just want to carry on with several items Jerry George has started and take care of a few loose ends. We are headed in the right direction, we just need to continue looking forward to the things the town will need in the future. I have enjoyed working with Jerry and the town and hope we will continue our service together.”