Pembroke Park commissioners approve officer appointments after contentious nominations debate

The Town Commission completed its biennial reorganization and approved two resolutions appointing the commission’s officers for the next two years after extended discussion and several failed nominations.

After debate about whether commissioners should submit cover letters or resumes before officer selection, the commission considered nominations for mayor. Multiple motions failed before the body approved a motion appointing Ashiah Mohammed as mayor. The commission subsequently approved a pair of resolutions (filed in meeting as 2025-0 1 0 and 2025-012) designating the mayor, vice mayor, clerk commissioner and acting clerk commissioner and separately assigning oversight responsibilities for departments.

The specific appointments recorded in the second-resolution vote were: Ashiah Mohammed as mayor; Eric Morissette as vice mayor; Clerk Commissioner Hodgkins as clerk commissioner; and Mustafa Kashem as acting clerk commissioner. Commissioners expressed differing views: some argued officer selection should rotate and be used to develop experience; others opposed a mid-term change and called the timing inappropriate.

Town Attorney read the titles of the resolutions before votes. The commission approved the resolutions by roll call; recorded votes in the meeting show support from a majority of commissioners for both measures and the motions carried.

The reorganization prompted a broader discussion among commissioners about working relationships, commission liaisons to departments, and a desire by the mayor to reduce internal conflict and increase collaboration. Commissioners said they would post any position statements or resumes on the town website if provided.

Votes at a glance: Resolution appointing commission officers (2025-010) — adopted; Resolution designating departmental oversight (2025-012) — adopted.