The DeWitt Town Board has appointed Karen Docter as its newest town councilor. Docter was sworn-in during a special meeting of the board on Jan. 5 by retired Town Judge Jack Schultz.

“My family loves this town and anything I’m able to do to keep this town the jewel that it is, I am willing to do,” Docter said. “I’m honored that I was chosen.”

Docter, a family attorney in the Syracuse area and a former teacher, has been an active member of the town of DeWitt police commission and the DeWitt Democratic Committee.

Her main focus, Docter said, is the well-being of children and families in the town, as she works with many of them through her practice as a family lawyer.

“My chief goal is to have a united front on behalf of every resident in this town,” Docter said.

This focus is one of the main reasons Docter was chosen to fill the seat, according to Ed Michalenko, town supervisor.

“We’re looking forward to your participation on this board and believe this is the going to be a long and beneficial relationship,” Michalenko said.

The town board appointed Docter to take the seat left by Ken Andrews, who had been on the board for over 20 years and left to take on the position of chief to the civil department at the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, which was offered by Sheriff Gene Conway.

“If I had to give up my seat, I’m glad Karen took it,” Andrews said at the swearing-in ceremony. “She’s a great selection and shows dedicated to the betterment of DeWitt.”

Andrews had been the only Republican sitting on the board at the time of his departure. Docter’s addition will mean every member on the town board is affiliated with the Democrat party.

Hayleigh Gowans is a reporter for the Eagle Bulletin. She can be reached at [email protected].