ANNA MARIA – A familiar face has returned to the Anna Maria City Commission on a temporary basis.
On Thursday, July 8, the four-member commission unanimously appointed former Commissioner Doug Copeland to serve the remaining months of former Commissioner Joe Muscatello’s current term. Muscatello vacated his seat on Thursday, June 24 because he and his wife, Melissa, were relocating to his home state to operate a bed and breakfast they purchased in West Virginia.
Copeland was the only applicant who sought to fill the vacant seat on a short-term basis. He did not address the commission before the appointment was made, but he did include a brief statement in the application he submitted on Friday, June 25.
Copeland’s statement read as follows: “Dear Mayor and Anna Maria City commissioners, As important as I feel that commissioners should be elected by the voters, I am convinced it is critical to have a full commission. This not only prevents ties but brings another voice to the discussion. I believe I’m in a unique position to fill the vacant seat. I have over 20 years’ experience as a member and chairman of P&Z (Planning and Zoning Board). In the past, I have been elected to the commission and have served multiple terms as commissioner and chairman. This experience will allow me on day one to be a fully functioning member of the commission. I hope that you will select me to fill this interim position.”
Copeland decided not to seek reelection in 2019.
Before Thursday’s appointment was made, Mayor Dan Murphy told the commission they had two choices: appoint Copeland or allow the commission seat to remain vacant until the results of the November elections are certified. Commissioners Carol Carter, Jon Crane, Deanie Sebring and Mark Short unanimously supported Copeland’s appointment.
“Congratulations Doug. You’re now considered a repeat offender,” Murphy joked after the votes were cast.
After being sworn in by City Clerk LeAnne Addy, Copeland took his seat on the dais and participated in the remainder of the commission meeting.
Not seeking election
Before Thursday’s meeting began, Copeland told the attending media members that he would not seek election to a full two-year term in the November city elections. Copeland said he wanted that known now so those considering seeking a two-year term were aware of his long-term intentions. He encourages those interested in serving on the commission to run for office in the fall elections.
Anna Maria’s two-week candidate qualifying period begins at noon on Monday, Aug. 16, and ends at noon on Friday, Aug. 27. Candidate packages can be obtained from the city clerk’s office or the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office in Bradenton.
The commission seats currently held by Carter and Crane will also be filled as a result of this year’s city elections. Carter and Crane have both indicated they will seek reelection.
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