Melissa Carter wins seat on Atlanta Police LGBT Advisory Board

The nine-member board had two people absent on Monday and they were asked to vote via email on Tuesday. The votes were three for Carter, two for Stadtlander and two for Robison with one person abstaining.

Glen Paul Freedman, chair of the board, said the vote was taken by secret ballot.

Carter’s first official day as a member of the board will be at the panel’s next meeting on Dec. 19.

APD spokesperson Carlos Campos released a statement welcoming Carter to the board.

“Congratulations and welcome aboard to Melissa, and to the democratic process in action! Thanks to everyone on the board for all you do. Please let us know how APD can be of service as you continue to provide us with excellent advice and insights,” he said.

One other person interested in being on the board was gay-favorite Mary Norwood. However, the board is reserved only people who openly self-identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.