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by Dawn Kitterman
BRADENTON — The Bradenton City Council has appointed Kemp Schuessler as the new council member for Ward 3. Approved in a 3-1 vote at the July 23 city council meeting, he was sworn in on the same day.
Schuessler succeeds Josh Cramer, who stepped down last month to take on the role of Chief of the Bradenton Police Department.
According to city law, when a vacancy occurs (excluding recall elections), the remaining council members appoint an eligible replacement until the next municipal election for a term lasting until the unexpired term concludes.
Cramer’s term is set for four years, having been elected in November 2022. With his departure, 16 months remain until the seat is filled again in the November 2026 election.
Starting May, the city accepted applications from candidates to fill the vacancy until July 9. Schuessler, an independent insurance agent, was among six residents who applied.
Mayor Gene Brown and council members expressed appreciation for the qualified candidates who stepped forward.
In his application letter, Schuessler conveyed his enthusiasm for the role, highlighting his 30 years of leadership in the financial services industry, including strategic planning and budgeting experience.
At 59 years old, Schuessler’s diverse career spans from Wall Street positions to leadership roles at firms like Merrill Lynch and a multi-state energy consulting agency. He noted that he and his wife chose Wares Creek for its charm and history, also expressing his commitment to Bradenton’s sustainable development.
Click here to read Schuessler’s application letter and resume.
The Council’s Process
On July 22, the council held a workshop where applicants provided introductions. Attendees noted that the meeting lasted roughly 30 minutes, during which no questions were directed towards candidates.
On July 23, the agenda included the Ward 3 vacancy. However, it was unclear whether a selection would be made during the session. The agenda described the item as a discussion with an action noted as “TBD.”
Upon introduction of the agenda item, Mayor Brown acknowledged Councilwoman Jayne Kocher, who moved to appoint Schuessler after providing some introductory comments.
Councilwoman Marianne Barnebey seconded the motion, highlighting her own experience seeking an appointment and commending the quality of candidates.
While discussing the candidates, Councilwoman Lisa Gonzalez Moore expressed her preference for Marsha Forrest, a local business owner who she felt could provide valuable perspectives.
However, due to the motion already on the table, further debate on the candidates was not possible. Councilwoman Pam Coachman, who had not met with candidates, suggested that the council improve its selection process for future vacancies.
Moore attempted to postpone the motion for Schuessler’s appointment but her effort failed for lack of support. After the vote, Schuessler was appointed 3-1, with Coachman dissenting.
Schuessler took his seat following his swearing-in by Mayor Brown and participated in a Community Redevelopment Agency meeting shortly thereafter.
Click here to view additional candidates’ applications for council consideration.
Dawn Kitterman is a staff reporter for The Bradenton Times, covering local government news. She can be reached at dawn.kitterman@thebradentontimes.com.
Key Information
- New Council Member: Kemp Schuessler
- Appointment Date: July 23, 2023
- Predecessor: Josh Cramer (vacated seat for Chief of Police role)
- Term Length: 16 months until the November 2026 election
- Candidates Considered: 6 applicants, including Marsha Forrest
- Voting Outcome: Schuessler appointed 3-1
- Mayor: Gene Brown
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Article original publish date: 2025-08-02 07:00:00
Article source: thebradentontimes.com
Read the full story at the original source: thebradentontimes.com
