Dozens of friends and family members gathered at City Hall Monday, June 13, to see Commissioner Nate Kilton sworn into office.
Kilton, the immediate past chairman for the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and a local business owner, was declared the next commissioner after a runoff election against former Lakeland police officer David Cook in May.
Kilton takes the place of former Commissioner Billy Keel, who decided to pursue further business endeavors instead of running for re-election. Like Keel, Kilton brings financial knowledge to the table as the owner of Sedita Kilton Life & Wealth Management LLC, and Sedita Kilton & Company, Certified Public Accountants, PL.
As the newest commissioner, Kilton said he plans to remain focused on two key issues he talked about during his campaign: economic development and diversity.
“I certainly feel very privileged to be here this evening,” Kilton said. “The chamber is allowing me to chair a group about diversity in membership. You know my commitment there, and I’m not going to stop with that. We have a wonderful staff. I think the best is yet to come, and I’m excited to be a part of that.”
The commissioners expressed their support and congratulations to Kilton.
“I know that you’ll do a great job,” Commissioner Mary Thomas Mathis said. “You have a love for this city.”
“You’ve been a friend for a long time,” Vice Mayor Bill Dodson said. “We all look forward to working with you and for good reason.”
Mayor Rick Lott also offered his support.
“I know that we’re all looking forward to working with you,” he said.
Lott was also offered congratulations at the June 13 meeting, as he was re-appointed mayor for another term. Following his oath of office, he vowed to continue to work hard to better the community.
“I take this position very seriously,” Lott said. “Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity. I love this city, and I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve for another year.”
“You have been going way above,” Commissioner Mike Sparkman said. “You’re the right person to be in that position.”
Following the oath of offices, the commissioners were appointed to their existing councils and leagues throughout Tampa Bay. Commissioner Nate Kilton was appointed to the Council of Governments, the Public Transportation Commission and as the alternate for the Metropolitan Planning Organization.
Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.