City Council members elected Aaron Bowman as council president and Scott Wilson as vice president Tuesday.
Bowman represents District 3, comprising the Intracoastal West area of Jacksonville.
“I can’t tell you the honor it is to have your support,” Bowman said after the 19-0 vote to elect him, according to our Daily Record news partner.
Scott Wilson was elected vice president in a 10-9 vote.
“I’ve got excitement beyond belief, but also there’s a lot of uneasiness there,” Bowman said. “Knowing that you’re about to do something that very few people have done and everyone is watching you.”
Bowman is senior vice president of JAXUSA Partnership, the business development arm of the JAX Chamber. Through his role with JAXUSA, Bowman is directly involved in business recruitment and economic development.
Lori Boyer nominated Bowman, saying teamwork would be the foundation for his term.
“He knows how to manage process and people, both key to the role of president,” said Boyer, noting his military experience as commanding officer of Naval Station Mayport.
“We would be well-served with Aaron as our council president, and I encourage you to support him,” Boyer said.
Reggie Gaffney seconded the nomination.
“Aaron is proven leader,” Gaffney said.
With 13 pledges of support from his colleagues secured before the leadership vote, Bowman’s ascension to the office was expected. His election was unanimous.
“It’s all about teamwork, it’s about council, the administration the entire city working together,” Bowman said.
Bowman acknowledged “challenges” between council leadership and the administration, saying that “we need to do better.”
A longer version of this story is on the Daily Record’s website.
