After decades of service to the citizens of Wilton Manors, City Commissioner Gary Resnick has decided to step back at the end of his term.

He made the announcement in an open letter to his constituents.

“I have decided not to seek re-election this November. This has not been an easy decision, as representing the city has been an incredible experience. I’ve developed many great friends along the way. Many of you have reached out to me to encourage me to run again and to pledge your support. Your support for all these years, through nine elections, has meant the world. I learned two things from my mother that have guided me well: 1) always have a sense of humor, and 2) leave when they still want you to stay. This is the right time for me, Eric, and our rescue pup Brady to travel and to have more flexibility.”

He was first elected to the Wilton Manors City Commission in 1998, and served as mayor from 2008-2018. Current Mayor Scott Newton told SFGN that Resnick has been a great face for the city.

“Gary has been a very good ambassador to the city we have,” Newton said. “Accomplished a lot of good together to make Wilton Manors what it is today and I wish him all the best.”

Vice-Mayor Paul Rolli echoed those thoughts.

“Commissioner Gary Resnick served admirably for many years and I wish him and Eric all the best in their future endeavors. We will miss Gary’s knowledge and experience in many areas including his work with the Broward and Florida Leagues of Cities as well as in locating significant funding sources for city projects.”

“Our city owes a debt of gratitude to Commissioner Gary Resnick for his 24 years of service,” fellow Commissioner Chris Caputo said. “As a commission, we benefited from his institutional knowledge and municipal legal expertise. I wish him the very best as he embarks on his next chapter.”

Commissioner Mike Bracchi agreed. “Commissioner Resnick has dedicated over two decades of his life to our wonderful Island City.  He should be commended for his steadfast commitment to serving our community.”

At the end of his statement, Resnick said this goodbye may not be forever. 

“Of course, I love Wilton Manors, and this will always be home. Who knows, maybe public office will again be in my future.”

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