Boston City Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata said she has secured the votes to become the next Council president.

Coletta Zapata, chair of the powerful Government Operations Committee, announced Monday that she has the City Council presidency locked down, holding off a challenge from Brian Worrell and a late push from Julia Mejia.

“I’m proud to have had the privilege of serving the residents of Boston for eight years with the City Council,” Coletta Zapata said in a statement. “I deeply believe in this institution and in the vital role we play in improving the lives of Bostonians every day.

“The strength of this Council lies in our ability to respect one another, even when we disagree, and to work together with purpose and integrity. When we lead with respect and unity, we model the kin

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