Jacksonville is getting a brand new dockmaster. Rory Michael Mills will start work on March 20, according to John Culbreth, director of the Department of Parks, Recreation, Entertainment and Conservation.
“We’re going to miss Steve (Nichols, the former dockmaster,) of course,” said Culbreth. “But we’re glad we’ve got someone familiar with the St. Johns River.”
According to Culbreth, Mills owns M.J. Marine Services, a company with a variety of marina services, including the downtown S.S. Marine Taxi. Mills also holds a Coast Guard master’s license, and he served in the Navy for 24 years.
Culbreth said the City looked for someone with general marine knowledge and people skills.
Nichols was recognized for his hard work at a recent City Council meeting. Culbreth said Nichols was dedicated to his job and often worked extra hours on the weekends.
“He (Nichols) was working beyond the call of duty,” Culbreth said.
The City plans to create an assistant dockmaster position to help the new dockmaster, Culbreth added. He said the new job should be filled in the next few months.