Kaan assumes mayoral reins in Millsboro

MILLSBORO — Kimberley Kaan, a Town Council member since June 2022, is now also the mayor — the fourth woman to serve in the role.

By a 4-3 vote Monday, she outpolled Matthew Davis during the body’s reorganization.

Voting for Councilwoman Kaan were council members Ron O’Neal, John Thoroughgood and Mary D’Silva, as well as herself. Marty Presley and Robert “Bob” McKee backed Councilman Davis as mayor, with the third vote coming from himself.

“Thank you, everyone, for your vote of confidence,” Mayor Kaan said. “And I pray to God that I will make our town, our council and our staff proud with my service to the town.”

In the position, Mayor Kaan follows a trail blazed by Faye Lingo, Michelle Truitt and Thelma Monroe as a female mayor. Ms. Monroe, who was the first, served in the role from 1979-94 and passed away in February 2023 at age 95.

Council’s reorganization Monday followed the oath of office welcoming two members — Ms. D’Silva and Mr. McKee. They were unopposed for their seats earlier this year, and therefore, there was no election.

Ms. D’Silva assumed the District 1 council position held by Bob Bryan, while Mr. McKee took a District 3 seat, previously held by Jim Kells.

Following the swearing-in, Mayor Kaan said, “I would just like to take a moment to thank former Mayor Kells and Bob Bryan for their service to the town.”

In addition, Councilman Thoroughgood was selected vice mayor,

Councilman O’Neal was chosen as president pro tempore, Councilwoman D’Silva was named as secretary, and Councilman McKee was selected treasurer.