C. Jack Ellis
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C. Jack Ellis is the mayor of Macon, Georgia.
Prior to taking office, Ellis served in the United States Army, worked for the United States Census Bureau, hosted a public access television show, and sold used cars. He ran for mayor in 1999, and was elected as the first black (African-American) to hold the position. After a somewhat controversial first term, he was re-elected in 2003 after defeating several challengers in the Democratic primary and substantial write-in opposition in the general election. His second term has led to further conflicts with the city council and several failed attempts to recall him.
In spite of the sometimes-fierce opposition, Ellis has had some accomplishments during his term. The city successfully won a federal Hope VI grant to improve public housing, in addition to other grants and federal aid. Ellis has also gained personal influence in numerous national conferences relating to city government and urban issues, as well as becoming a frequent international traveler and ambassador for the city, mostly to Africa. However, his travels have been controversial, as they take him away from the city for extended time periods and have, at times, involved city funds. Ellis has repeatedly insisted that previous mayors had similar expenses and that much of his travel has been covered by private groups.
Ellis's term expires in 2007.
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