By MORGAN RYAN

Citizens of Orange City made history this election cycle by electing Kelli Marks as the first female mayor in the city’s history. She was inducted into office Nov. 19 following a landslide victory against opponent Laurie Scotton. Marks received 65.2 percent, or 3,966 votes, to Scotton’s 34.8 percent or 2,117 votes.

Before her mayoral run, Marks served as the District 4 representative for six years. She will replace Gary A. Blair for the mayor position, who has served on the Orange City Council since 1998.

In addition to her role on the City Council, Marks also serves as the founder and president of Backpack Buddies, a local nonprofit organization that seeks to eliminate food insecurity in the Orange City community. 

Marks hopes that the citizens of Orange City remain actively involved in their local government as she serves as mayor. She says her biggest goal is to bring the community together.

“We need to know what their wants and needs are,” Marks said. “We want them to come to the meetings and be engaged.”

Marks also plans to address the flooding issues brought forward by the community.

Replacing Kelli Marks as the District 4 representative is Lisa Richardson, a newcomer who ran unopposed for the position.

Dana Knight also ran unopposed for the Orange City Council Member at Large position, replacing Anthony Pupello after 10 years of service.

Not only has Orange City made history by electing Kelli Marks as the first female mayor, but four of the six City Council seats are now occupied by women. 

Marks credits the women of the city’s past for where she is today. 

“The women in the 1800s did all the work, they served their community,” she said. “It’s a huge accomplishment for our history, because our city is known for its history.”

The new mayor and council members will serve in their first City Council meeting Tuesday, Dec. 10.