FELLSMERE — Thursday evening was Susan Adams’ final Fellsmere City Council meeting, leaving an opening as Mayor and a vacant seat on the dais, filled by the only person to apply for Council.
“I have really enjoyed working with you,” Adams said, prior to passing the gavel and leaving the Council. She added that she is proud of what the Council has accomplished over the years.
“You know where to find me,” she said, noting she’d still be busy at Marsh Landing Restaurant.
Fellsmere City Attorney swore in returning Councilwoman Sara Savage and newcomer Gerry Piper.
Savage nominated Joel Tyson to the Mayor’s post, which was unanimously supported by her fellow Council members.
Piper nominated Savage to the Vice Mayor’s post, which also was unanimously supported.
“For better or worse, Sara, we’re going to be a team,” Tyson said following the two votes.
Councilman Fernando Herrera will continue to serve as Mayor Pro Tem.
Before Adams left the Council Chambers, each member took a moment to thank her for her eight years on Council.
Adams chose not to seek re-election. Instead, she is pursuing a seat on the County Commission currently held by Commissioner Wesley Davis. Davis, too, decided to not seek re-election and is running for Property Appraiser.
“Thank you so much,” Herrera said. “We will miss you.”
Tyson marveled at Adams’ ability to retain control of meetings.
“She’s tough,” he said, noting that those who think they can run “rough-shod” over Adams are mistaken.
“I will miss you so much,” Savage said. “I really admire you and when I come back in my next life, I want to be like you.”
Councilwoman Jessica Salgado said the loss of Adams is “bittersweet” as they wish her well in her future endeavors yet won’t have her at the dais.
“It’s easy when you have such great people to work with,” Adams said of conducting the City’s business with the group of Council members the City has.