Shaneka Nichols was voted vice president pro tem during Dean Burrell’s absence.

By Cindy Hoffman, Staff Writer

(Nov. 9, 2023) Berlin Town Council member Shaneka Nichols has been appointed vice president pro tempore during Council Vice President Dean Burrell’s absence from the council through the end of the year, or until his return.

The appointment was made last Thursday, following Burrell’s announcement that he has some back issues that has kept him in constant pain and is planning to have surgery to address the problem.

His recovery time will last several weeks and said he would be away from the council during November and December and expects to return after the first of the year.

“I ask that you keep me in your prayers,” Burrell said.

“We hope to see you back here as quickly as possible,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said.

The council unanimously passed a motion reading, “The Vice-President Pro-Tempore shall assume the duties and responsibilities of the Council Vice-President effective immediately and such appointment shall expire when Council Vice-President Burrell returns to the position or shall renew upon approval of a majority of the Council effective April 1, 2024, for a period of time to be determined.”

Council member Steve Green nominated Nichols as vice president pro tem.

“I think she will do a wonderful job and it is very important to maintain diversity in our leadership positions,” he said.

“I appreciate your confidence,” she replied, adding, “Mr. Burrell, you leave ginormous clown-like shoes to fill in this time period. I will be very respectful, and I will do my best to keep your seat warm. I pray for a speedy recovery.”