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Nick Nesta sworn in as Apopka mayor, pledges transparency and infrastructure, water and budget changes
Summary
Nicholas L. Nesta III was sworn in as mayor of Apopka and used his opening remarks to promise a more transparent government, a new budgeting process involving commissioners and residents, expanded park amenities, improved water access and infrastructure work including widening Kelly Park Road.
Nicholas L. Nesta III was sworn in as mayor of Apopka and told a packed ceremony that residents are "ready for change and a new path forward," outlining priorities that include a new budgeting process, improved water access, park upgrades and infrastructure projects.
At a ceremony emceed by Steven Moteiro, Mike Larson administered the oath to Nesta, who said the incoming commission will start budget planning with commissioner and resident input to ensure broader participation in the city’s spending decisions. "We've already established the groundwork for a new process of budgeting starting with commissioners and resident input in the beginning of the budget process to ensure all viewpoints and priorities are going to be heard," Nesta said.
The mayor identified several early infrastructure and development aims. He pledged to pursue a water system that "provides access to water for all of our community," expand park amenities across neighborhoods, and press for delayed road work — naming Kelly Park Road west of Plymouth Sorrento Road as a priority for widening. Nesta also said the city will create incentive programs to attract businesses and retailers he said match residents' needs.
Other changes Nesta described include new technology and greater transparency for commissioners and the public, dedicated office and meeting space for commissioners, and more autonomy and support for city staff. "The access will build confidence with our commission and our residents," he said, adding that the commission's decisions and the information behind them "are not private."
The ceremony also included prayers and remarks from other newly sworn officials. Chief Lavetta Quinn-Henry of the Apopka Police Department delivered an invocation asking for wisdom and collaboration for the new leadership. Commissioners sworn in at the event included Sam Ruth (Seat 1), Diane Velazquez (Seat 2), Yesenia Jessie Barron (Seat 4), and Nadia Anderson was noted as joining the dais for Seat 3. Commissioner Sam Ruth thanked first responders and pledged active support for the mayor; at one point he said, "I will kick some doors in if I need to," characterizing his commitment to constituent outreach.
Commissioner Diane Velazquez, reelected to Seat 2, emphasized the importance of resident engagement in elections and thanked voters for returning her to office. Commissioner Yesenia Jessie Barron thanked family and pledged to "move Apopka forward together."
The transcript provided for this report does not include a date for the ceremony.
After formal remarks, officials and the public were invited to a ceremonial cake-cutting and reception, and the program closed with expressions of thanks and an appeal for residents to remain engaged with city government.
