Flagler Beach Mayor Suzie Johnston has hit the ground running as the newly elected mayor of Flagler Beach. As this week’s The Big Five guest, she’s sharing what she’s learning in the first 30 days, and what she’s ready to tackle for beach town.
It’s been a little over a month. Is public service all you expected it would be?
I had an idea of what I was stepping into having grown up in a family of public service. But so far yes, it is what I expected it to be. It’s great to be able to help the community and work with the Commission on important decisions for Flagler Beach. Just this past weekend I was able to partner with the Police Department for a Super Spring Saturday Event where we collected prescription pills for a take-back event and had golf cart registration for those that are unable to do so during the week.
What’s been your biggest challenge in your first 30 days?
The biggest challenge thus far has been operating without a City Manager. Rick McFadden has done a great job being an interim City Manager, as well as handling his own position within the city. I am looking forward to May 1st when our new city Manager William Whitson takes his position.
What’s been your biggest surprise since taking office?
The amount of emails from residents. I knew it was going to be a lot but not near the amount it is. I think that people reach out to the Mayor as a first step and are looking for a helping hand on which direction to go. I created a Facebook page Suzie Johnston- Mayor to help get information to the residents.
Is there a project in the city you’re looking to tackle during your first year?
Yes, during my campaign I discussed trying to get additional funds from the County. At the April 9th meeting, the Commission approved a letter to the Board of County Commissioners and the County Administrator requesting additional funds for the City of Flagler Beach. The County Budget process begins in January, so the window of opportunity was closing very fast for the city, we needed to act quickly.
You hosted your first Meet the Mayor. How did it go and what did you learn from your constituents?
The first Meet the Mayor went very well. Due to the rain there was a light turn out but still many residents came out. I learned that many people are wanting to help better the City in any way they can. Everyone has such a big heart for our City and even if they have their own issues, they still want to volunteer to make the city better.
