MARCO ISLAND, Fla. — After months of gridlock, Marco Island City Council has voted unanimously to appoint Rene Champagne to fill the long-vacant seventh seat on council.
Since November, councilors had been stuck in a stalemate — repeatedly splitting 3-3 on every candidate vying for the role.
“I thought this was going to go on for a few more hours,” Champagne said following the vote. “It was heading in that direction, as you know. And much to my surprise, everyone else voted in favor," he added.
WATCH TO SEE INSIDE CITY COUNCIL'S SPECIAL SESSION:
Champagne is a veteran who has lived on the island for more than 18 years. He describes himself as "fiscally conservative and politically independent". Now the newest face on city council, he said he’s eager to get started.
“Where do we put people? How do people get around the island? How does the water become clean so people can swim and fish and boat in it? Those are the top items,” Champagne said speaking about his priorities. “The city is well-run. It's a good team. I think we need to prioritize issues a little bit better — and that’s where council comes into play," he added.
Residents expressed relief that the months-long search had finally come to a close.
“Well, it’s about time,” said Christine Dowell, with Citizens for a Better Marco. “Rene Champagne will be an excellent candidate. I hope truly that he is going to follow through on holding up the comprehensive plan and the things that he brought up, because it has not been held up," she said.
Tensions were high at the start of Monday’s special session, as councilors initially struggled to agree on selection procedures. But momentum shifted after Councilwoman Bonita Schwan made a swift motion to appoint Champagne.
“I just thought it was time. There was a lot of discussion, it was stalling — and it was just time to make the motion," said Schwan. “I’m really excited — I’m so excited,” she added.
Champagne was officially sworn in following the session and said he will begin participating in meetings right away.
“We look forward to participating on this council,” he said. Adding, "the future is very bright for Marco Island.”
