Poynter and Lentz have left the building.

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
December 20, 2017 2:29 p.m.

Fernandina Beach Vice Mayor Len Kreger began the annual reorganization meeting by presenting outgoing commissioners Robin Lentz and Tim Poynter plaques in recognition of their service. Kreger expressed gratitude to both departing commissioners and gave each an opportunity to speak.

Poynter, who was defeated by Philip Chapman in his reelection bid, delivered positive and supportive comments both to the new commission and to city residents. He thanked his family and members of the community for the opportunity to serve over the past three years. Poynter wished the new commissioners well in their new roles. He called upon everyone to get behind the new commission to help them succeed. “We want this commission to be successful,” he said. “Because if they fail, we all fail as a community. We want our community to succeed.”

Lentz, who declined to run for a second term, served the past year as Mayor. In accepting the plaque from Kreger, she expressed her thanks to her family and to the community for support. She singled out city staff for special recognition. Calling city staff “the utmost professionals,” Lentz said that they always deserve to be treated with respect. Addressing the new commissioners, Lentz said, “You need to lean on them. They are the experts.   Be sure to rely on them, ask questions; they are always available. She echoed Poynter’s call to unite behind the new commission. She expressed regret that during her term the waterfront redevelopment had not happened. “But,” she added, “let’s move forward in a positive direction to get some of those things done that our commission wanted to do before we ran out of time.”

Comments from the outgoing commissioners were heartfelt and well received by the audience, who applauded each speaker.

Editor’s Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne’s many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.