Highlands recognizes Commissioner Brian Steeler’s 14 years of service; seat to be filled by November special election

The Highlands Board of Commissioners on Sept. 18 formally recognized Commissioner Brian Steeler for 14 years of service to the town. During public comment, resident James Worrall said Steeler had moved outside town limits and therefore cannot continue to serve; Worrall and others urged future officeholders to continue Steeler’s advocacy.

Ceremony and remarks The board presented Steeler with a flag and made remarks about his leadership on community events including the Highlands scholarship golf tournament. Steeler delivered farewell remarks, reflecting on his tenure and thanking fellow commissioners, town staff and the community. He said public service had been "one of the greatest honors of my life."

Election to fill the remainder of the term During public comment, James Worrall said the remainder of Steeler’s term will be filled by a person elected in a November special election. The board did not take a formal personnel or appointment action at the Sept. 18 meeting; the special election timetable and candidate filing details were not specified during the meeting.

Next steps Town staff and the board will follow municipal rules for filling the seat; the meeting record indicates the town will hold a November special election to fill the remainder of the term, but specific election dates and filing deadlines were not read into the record at the meeting.