HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners are saying “goodbye” to one of their own – Jean Peelen is leaving the commission after six years of service.
During Peelen’s final regular commission meeting, Mayor Bob Johnson took a moment to say a few words, thanking her for her service to the community. He also presented her with a glass sculpture to commemorate her time on the city commission.
“We thank her for her years of active and community-engaged service and wish her the best in her following endeavors,” Johnson said.
Peelen received a standing ovation.
“I am so grateful to this mayor and this entire commission and the staff of the city for how they have been in embracing completely our shared vision of having a city for everyone,” she said. “A city for residents and for visitors and a city which embodies ‘neighborhood.’ And I think that’s happening and I’ve been so proud to be a part of that. I just want to say thank you to all of you.”
Though Peelen’s last official meeting as a commissioner was an Oct. 26 work session, she won’t officially step down from the dais until after the results of the Nov. 7 election are certified and the newly elected, or re-elected, commissioners are sworn into office.