Apex’s three newly elected town councilmen were sworn into office Dec. 1 during a brief ceremony at town hall.

The event was nothing new for Mike Jones and Gene Schuzle who are beginning their sixth and third terms, respectively. It was, however, a new experience for Lance Olive who won a seat during his first foray into politics.

In fact, Olive led all seven candidates by garnering the most votes during the November 3 election. Olive was sworn in by Rep. Paul Stam and was also joined by his wife, Cheryl, and parents, Ross and Nancy Olive.

He gave credit for his success to his wife, children and many supporters.

“I would just like to thank the people of Apex,” said Olive. “The (election) showed me that people care about this town and they love it here. I heard a lot of stories (during the campaign) and got to learn just how much they enjoy it.

“I also want to thank all the people who supported me and prayed for me. I could not have done it without them.”

Olive said he enjoyed growing up in Apex and is looking forward to getting to work as a councilman.

“I feel this is the best place I want to serve and I will serve to the best of my ability,” said Olive. Olive, who has served on the town planning board for six years, also said he was impressed by the commitment shown by the other councilmen.

“Everyone up here wants to serve Apex and serve it well,” said Olive. He added that he will make sure every decision he makes as a councilman will be in the best interest of Apex.

Jones was sworn in by town clerk Georgia Evangelist and was joined by his daughter, April. The Apex native also thanked his family for their strong support throughout his 20 years as a councilman. He gave a special thanks to his grandchildren who worked hard in his recent campaign.

“The Lord has blessed me in many ways,” said Jones. “I have a great family and a great hometown.” Schulze also thanked his family and supporters and induced plenty of laughter from those in attendance while adding a little levity to the proceedings.

“I wouldn’t be half the man I am without my wife, Karen,” said Schulze. “I also want to thank my parents. I really wouldn’t be here without them.”

Schulze was also sworn in by Stam and was joined by his wife and three daughters.

“I look forward to working with the rest of the council,” said Schulze. “I think we have accomplished a lot and I think we will accomplish a lot more. The future is bright.”

In a surprising change, council voted 4-1 to elect Councilman Bryan Gossage as the new mayor pro-tem. He replaces Jones who had served in that capacity for many years.

Councilman Bill Jensen nominated Gossage and Olive, in his first official move as a councilman, seconded the nomination. Schulze nominated Jones but did not receive a second. Schulze was the lone dissenter in the vote for Gossage.

In other business, Mayor Keith Weatherly suggested the formation of an economic development committee. Council voted unanimously to approve.

Weatherly appointed himself as chairman while Jensen and Schulze will also serve on the committee.

Other appointments included:

Finance Committee: Jones (chairman) with Schulze and Gossage

Planning Committee: Olive (chairman) with Jones and Jensen

Personnel Committee: Schulze (chairman) with Olive and Gossage

Liaison Appointments included:

Apex Chamber of Commerce: Weatherly

Apex Fire Advisory Board: Schulze

Apex Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Advisory Commission: Jones

Triangle J Council of Governments: Olive

Transportation Advisory Commission: Weatherly with Jones as alternate.