by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
Alison Miller, director of government affairs for the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce, will leave that post at the end of the month to join the City Council, where she’ll work as Council vice president Kevin Hyde’s aide. She starts Jan. 3.
“Alison has a great mind and I’m really looking forward to working more closely with her,” said Hyde. “She’s a perfect fit.”
Hyde cited Miller’s familiarity with political issues and their players among her most valuable assets.
“Alison has established herself and also has a great understanding of various government-related issues,” said Hyde. “Additionally, her contacts in both Tallahassee and right here in Jacksonville will allow her to get involved and make an impact from the very beginning.”
Hyde’s current aide, Christine Sasser, turned in her resignation last week. Sasser is leaving to be a full-time mother to Sarah, her nine-month-old daughter.
“Obviously I’m disappointed she’s leaving, but I completely support her decision,” said Hyde. “She has done a wonderful job and I’ll no longer have the benefit of her good assistance.
“Christine has served me, former Council president Matt Carlucci and this city well.”
Just after Sasser made her announcement, Hyde started his search for a new aide. He appealed to Miller, with whom he is enrolled in the same Leadership Jacksonville class, for a list of potential replacements.
“I basically asked her if she could think of anyone who might be interested,” said Hyde. “About a day later she called me back and said she was.”
Miller, a Jacksonville native who has been with the Chamber for six years, said she enjoyed her time there, but her departure was brought about by a need for, “a new opportunity.”
“I’m proud of what we accomplished at the Chamber,” said Miller. “However, when the chance to work with Vice President Hyde came up, I felt like I had to take it. I’m very impressed with him and I find him to be among our most talented and intelligent elected officials.”