Tequesta council appoints Kyle Stone to fill vacant Council Seat 1; sworn in at same meeting

The Village of Tequesta council on March 12 appointed Kyle Stone to fill the vacancy in Council Seat 1 and administered the oath during the same meeting. Staff described the appointment procedure (applications accepted Feb. 13–March 2) and said six residents applied; the appointment will last until the next general election on March 11, 2027.

Candidates spoke briefly in public session about their backgrounds and priorities. Applicants included Marsha Nielsen (longtime resident and frequent meeting attendee who said she would not run for the seat next year), Jason Bridal (who previously served on council), Kyle Stone (who said he would serve for one year if appointed and highlighted financial and pension-board experience), Vince Chai and others. Council members discussed criteria including community engagement, institutional knowledge, experience with municipal finance and continuity for upcoming budget- and pension-related decisions. Several council members said they prefer election but the village charter requires the council to appoint when a special election is not feasible.

A majority of council members voted to appoint Kyle Stone; he then repeated the oath of office and took his seat. The mayor encouraged other applicants to remain engaged in village boards and programs.