Rachel Keesling is Punta Gorda's New Mayor

Rachel Keesling is Punta Gorda's new Mayor.  This morning at the City Council Meeting, Ms. Keesling became Mayor through unanimous consent of Council.   Carolyn Freeland is the new Vice Mayor. Also, at the Council, Nancy Prafke, who won the election for District 5 last night took her Council seat for the first time.

Ms. Keesling, who  grew up in Charlotte County, is a graduate of the University of Florida. She taught middle and high school in Lee and Charlotte counties. She holds a Master's Degree from Florida Gulf Coast University. Ms. Keesling won her uncontested seat on City Council, two years ago and acted as Vice Mayor in 2012.  Ms. Keesling has been a very active member of the Council, and served as Chair for the 125th Anniversary of the City last year.     She and her husband, Klint, have been City residents for 20 years. 

Carolyn Freeland and Nancy Prafke sworn in for two-year terms on Punta Gorda's City Council

Also at City Council: Sheriff Prummell thanks Punta Gorda Police for service during the funeral of fallen officer, Sgt. Michael Wilson.   

Bruce Arenal, Punta Gorda Police Chief, and Sheriff Bill Prummell