COLUMN: Thanks mayor and welcome to councilors, new and old

As the Destin City Council transitions this week after the recent election, I’d like to take an opportunity to thank a few people.

First, to Mayor Craig Barker, I give many thanks for the relationship we’ve been able to build over my six-plus years here in Destin. When I interviewed for the position of president and CEO of the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce, I knew this was a chamber where I wanted to work because the mayor took time out of his busy schedule to be part of the interview committee.  

I thought to myself ‘what a great city government Destin must have if the mayor is this interested and concerned about the new chamber president. I know we can do great things with his type of leadership.’

I was correct.  

Working closely with Mayor Barker, we’ve been able to make positive decisions about quality growth in Destin. I appreciate all of the time he gave me, gave the chamber, and gave the business community during the six years

I’ve known him. He was always there when the chamber needed him or wanted him.  

I want to thank him for working so closely with us during down economic times. His ability to think freely and quickly allowed us to do many things that helped the business community and, in turn, save and create jobs in the Destin area.

Mayor, you handled your position of leadership with grace, style and class, and for that the chamber is truly thankful!

I also want to thank Capt. Kelly Windes for his dedication and commitment to improving Destin during his four-year term on council. Windes never turned us down when we asked for his assistance, either as a councilor or an experienced fisherman. His decisions as a councilor were logical and thoughtful. He never spoke without carefully considering his words. He will be missed.

In addition, the chamber would like to congratulate our new mayor, Sam Seevers, and the councilors just elected — Jim Bagby, Larry Hines, and Larry Williges.  We’ve had the pleasure of working with Mayor Seevers and Councilors Bagby and Williges. We look forward to working with our newest member, Councilor Hines.
Together, I know we can continue to build this world-class community one business at a time.

Shane Moody is the president of the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce.