George Baker took his seat as the newest Town Council member on Tuesday.
But not before a light-hearted moment.
Baker's nomination by the Republican Town Committee to fill a vacancy was supported unanimously and council members invited him to join them.
"Don't I need to be sworn in first?" Baker quipped.
"Yes, you do," said Vice Chairman Richard Field.
With that, Town Clerk Meg Devito administered the oath of office.
Sam Belsito vacated the position last week when he was sworn in as the new 53rd District state representative. That position became vacant when Bryan Hurlburt resigned to take a federal agriculture position.
Belsito won the subsequent special election two weeks ago.
Baker has served as probate judge and runs the Glastonbury-based George A. Baker law firm.
"I am honored," Baker said. "I know a lot has changed in the past two week and I know my role is to fill a vacancy. But I appreciate the opportunity and I will do my best to represent the citizens of Tolland."
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