St. Augustine's leadership is sporting a familiar face with a longstanding commitment to the city's heritage. Mayor Nancy Sikes-Kline, the featured #FaceoftheCity this week, has been firmly at the helm of historic preservation efforts since joining the commission 16 years ago. According to a post on the City of St. Augustine's official Facebook page, Mayor Sikes-Kline has embedded historic preservation into the fabric of city hall policies and values.
Far from a ceremonial position, the role of Mayor in St. Augustine seems to be one deeply entrenched in the day-to-day ebb and flow of city life. Mayor Sikes-Kline is to be squarely found in the mix, embracing the unpredictability of her schedule which involves – crucially – the need to rapidly be responsive to the community's calls, emails, and texts. It is her belief that change, even in the smallest degree, can culminate to reshape the city for the better.
Mayor Sikes-Kline also places a premium on the human element of governance. Her meetings with community members are not just part of the job but are a source of excitement and reaffirmation of her commitment to the people of St. Augustine. When not engaged with official duties, she enjoys family time, indulges in music—particularly that of Pretty Lights—and a good book.
Her tenure has had its share of highlights, but a visit to Aviles, Spain, as part of the Sister Cities program was especially poignant. Such an experience allowed her to deeply connect with and comprehend the historical lineage of St. Augustine.
