A teenager has been approved to run for a city council seat of Stonecrest, a recently incorporated city in DeKalb County.

Mary-Pat Hector, 19, was previously told that her age may be an obstacle despite the city charter’s lack of an age requirement.

But Hector released a statement Thursday saying she’s honored and thrilled to have been approved to run.

“Justice was served, and the law prevailed,” Hector said. “The board's decision is a testament to the inclusion of the next generation's participation in the democratic process.”

She is the youngest woman to ever have been eligible to run for elected office in Georgia.

“I look forward to continuing my campaign and serving as the first council member for the fourth district of the city of Stonecrest,” Hector said.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Sandy Springs officers responded to a police shooting in the area of Roswell Road and Dunwoody Place on Thursday. (Ben Hendren for the AJC)

Credit: Ben Hendren

Featured

Managing Partner at Atlantica Properties, Darion Dunn (center) talks with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens during a tour following the ribbon cutting of Waterworks Village as part of the third phase of the city’s Rapid Housing Initiative on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025.
(Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez