Fernandina Beach City Clerk Mary Mercer moves on

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm

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Retiring City of Fernandina Beach Clerk
Mary Mercer

Reporter, News – Analyst

After more than 17 years with the City of Fernandina Beach, City Clerk Mary Mercer bid her co-workers, city commissioners and the public an emotional farewell at the Fernandina Beach City Commission’s (FBCC) January 2, 2013 meeting.  An equally touched Mayor Sarah Pelican delivered a public proclamation on behalf of the FBCC commending Mercer for her “loyal and unselfish efforts” during her tenure.  Pelican characterized Mercer as “the consummate professional.”

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Mary Mercer receives proclamation for her service from Mayor Pelican

Mrs. Mercer expressed her gratitude toward all the people, both inside and outside the city, whom she had come to know and serve over the course of her career in the city.  She singled out Commissioner Arlene Filkoff for helping her understand the value of setting and meeting goals, advising other city employees to also adopt goal-setting as a means to better organize work and maximize accomplishments.  She also credited the late Dr. Clark Hoshall, whose regular requests for public documents provided her with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of both Florida public records law and the city’s records.

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Retiring City Clerk Mary Mercer joined by her husband Phillip

Mrs. Mercer’s last day with the city is January 4, 2013.  On January 8, she officially joins the staff of new Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper, where she will continue her work in public records management.  Deputy City Clerk Kim Elliot-Briley will act as City Clerk until the FBCC fills the position permanently.  The position will be advertised through the end of January.

To many people, Mary Mercer was the face of City Hall.  She was known throughout the community as a cheerful and helpful source of information and assistance in navigating through the various city offices.  Mayor Pelican summed up Mercer’s departure succinctly saying, “She will be missed.”

January 3, 2013 4:33 p.m.