New Nolensville commission ‘duo’ excited to help lead town

The two new Nolensville commissioners knew each other before their candidacy.

Both attributed their familiarity to small town life.

But as their campaigns began to intertwine, and as the November election date neared, a closer friendship grew between Kate Cortner and Jessica Salamida.

“While we didn’t know it at the time we each chose to run, we became involved for very similar reasons, concern for the proposals coming forward that included rapid and intense density and growth,” Salamida said.

Cortner expanded on that sentiment, saying the same local developer prompted their candidacy.

“We both individually chose to run, and quickly realized we aligned on many of the issues,” Cortner said.

Salamida, with 2,777 votes, and Cortner, with 2,535 votes, both won in the Nolensville election. Incumbent Commissioner Lisa Garramone didn’t retain her seat. The swearing in ceremony for the two is Dec. 1.

Both were excited the campaign work paid off.

“I am truly humbled by the result of the election Tuesday evening. I’m excited for the future and the opportunity to serve alongside fellow commissioners, town staff and the wonderful residents of Nolensville,” Salamida said. “This election was no easy feat, and I’m truly thankful for the support of the town residents. Again, I’m truly thankful for the opportunity I’ve been given and I don’t take it lightly.”

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Cortner echoed Salamida’s feelings.

“Thank you to everyone who got out to vote. I couldn’t have done it without the amazing support of town residents,” Cortner said. “I am thrilled with the results and looking forward to a continued collaboration with town residents, (board of commissioners) members, and town staff to forge our way to a better trajectory for Nolensville.”

Elaborating, Cortner said the commissioners are “great people” who “have a large task at hand.”

“I look forward to mapping out a clear future for our town, with responsible growth and tangible goals in place,” Cortner said.

She reiterated that they both organically “blossomed into a duo.”

“It just made sense. Work smart,” Cortner said. “We did network separately at times, and other times we chose to campaign together.

“We had many of the same supporters because of our stance on density and growth,” Cortner added. “It goes to show that change is possible when you work together for the bigger picture.”

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: New Nolensville commission ‘duo’ excited to help lead town