The Town of Cutler Bay conducted the swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, Dec. 6, for newly elected officials following the general election on Nov. 6 and the runoff election on Nov. 20.
The ceremony, which took place in the Town Council Chambers, had a standing-room-only audience as family, friends and other residents attended.
Tim Meerbott was sworn in as mayor by Councilmember (Seat 2) Michael P. Callahan, while Roger Coriat, re-elected to Councilmember Seat 3, was sworn in by former Mayor Peggy R. Bell. Newcomer to the council, Robert “BJ” Duncan, was sworn into the Councilmember (Seat 1) post by Town Clerk Debra Eastman.
In his speech following the ceremony, Mayor Meerbott expressed his thoughts about the job ahead.
“To try to preserve the community feel that we have in Cutler Bay can be a challenge, but we have to make sure we do two things going forward: first and foremost, we — the ones that have lived here a long time — need to welcome the residents that are new to the area,” Mayor Meerbott said.
“We need to show them that we care about them, so they can care about us, and we can care about this town together. The other thing is I need to work diligently and harmoniously with this council. We’re not always going to agree on everything, but I will always treat them with respect, knowing that they deeply care about this town.”
The regular council meeting took place on Dec. 12, and the next regular council meeting will take place on Jan. 16, 2019.
