Politics

Former Fort Walton Beach Mayor Dick Rynearson named Mayor Emeritus

The honorary position allows Rynearson to continue representing the city as a goodwill ambassador.

Jared Williams

The Fort Walton Beach City Council voted 5-2 Tuesday to bestow the title of Mayor Emeritus upon former Mayor Dick Rynearson, who served the city for 16 years as both councilman and mayor.

The honorary position allows Rynearson to continue representing the city as a goodwill ambassador without compensation.

“I’m both humbled and honored by this, and my wife and I will continue to represent the city to the best of our ability,” Rynearson said after the vote. “We love the city and we’re going to keep on going.”

The Mayor Emeritus title request originated from Mayor Nic Allegretto in early April. The resolution specifies that the Mayor Emeritus position is purely ceremonial with no budgetary impact. Rynearson will not receive compensation, office space or travel reimbursements.

Councilman Bryce Jeter expressed support for the resolution, noting Rynearson’s willingness to continue representing the city.

“The fact that you’re up here 16 years, you’re back here again tonight, and you and your beautiful wife are still willing to go represent us positively in the community,” Jeter said. “We’re getting two for the price of one.”

According to the city attorney’s memorandum, the Mayor Emeritus title allows Rynearson to use the formal title, act as a goodwill ambassador, and award honorary recognitions to those he deems deserving.

The resolution also specifies that Rynearson is not considered a member of any city board or committee, freeing him from Sunshine Law restrictions on communications with current council members.

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