BY MARK J. CRAWFORD
Telegraph Editor
STARKE — Judge Tatum Davis swore in new and returning elected officials in Starke on Oct. 5.
Davis said it was without a doubt the best part of his job, both because of his personal connections to those taking the oath of office as well as the importance of local government in our lives.
“Local government is the most important work that happens throughout the entire process of governance and legislation and oversight, because you all have the most ties, connections, to the people you represent,” Davis said.
Even Alexander Hamilton, a proponent of
strong central government, recognized that, just like the closeness to one’s family and neighbors, the closeness of local government to the public gives it the ability to respond directly to its needs and influence people with affection, esteem and reverence for government, he said.
“You all are about to be stewards of that affection, esteem and reverence, and I can’t impress upon you all how important your role is in the lives of all of your friends and neighbors,” Davis said. “It is my hope that the oath you are about to take serves as a daily reminder of that responsibility to you every day. … We all are relying on you to make good and wise and civil decisions.”
Taking the oath was new Commissioner Scott Roberts, and returning Commissioner Janice Mortimer, whom the board later appointed mayor for the coming year.
Former Commissioner and Mayor Jimmy Crosby also returned to public service for the city of Starke, this time as the new city clerk. The public re-elected Jeff Johnson to continue serving as chief of the Starke Police Department.
Following the swearing-in, family members and friends who had gathered to witness the ceremony took turns taking pictures to commemorate the evening.
The night also marked the first meeting for new City Manager Drew Mullins, who was welcomed by the board. Mullins thanked commissioners in return for the opportunity.
