It was a great honor to be sworn in as the new councilmember for District 5. Overall, I thought the meeting went very well. Professional and respectful discussion of the issues helped us develop a consensus and move forward.

With regards to the mayor pro-tem appointment, I nominated both Mrs. Bertolini and Mr. Day. The first round I voted for Mr. Day and it tied the vote 4-4. The next vote I voted for Mrs.  Bertolini and the vote was in favor of Mr. Day. Both were very deserving of the honor.

I wanted to take a minute and discuss the ordinance to change our meeting day and possibly adjust Citizens Input time. There was no legitimate reason for the day to be changed. I would like to see us go back to having meetings on Tuesdays when a holiday falls on Mondays. As for the citizens input, if we need to limit the amount of speakers due to time constraints or other reasons, then we as a council can decide on the spot to exceed our set time limit and this also holds true for allowing individuals to exceed their alloted time. Our procedural rules can be modified by a majority vote of the council for any special circumstances we encounter during a meeting. This is how it is and how it should stay. The council is about 8 members having equal shares of influence.

In closing, I would like to express how encouraging it was to see the different personalities discuss issues and blend so well to reach the right decisions. I hope that all the citizens can see the sincerity in our actions and will become more active in our local government. We are here for everyone.

Okay, one more thing. To everyone that didn't support me during the campaign and has since made it a point to contact me with kind words of encouragement, I thank you. I am very humbled by the out pouring of support and encouragement from everyone. God Bless Cape Coral!