The Spokane City Council filled its vacancy Monday night by unanimously electing to appoint businesswoman and civic activist Betsy Wilkerson. Wilkerson will fill the seat in the council’s South district, replacing Breean Beggs, who now serves as council president.

Before the vote, several community members endorsed Wilkerson. She was one of seven finalists out of 32 applicants for the position. Those seven were interviewed by the council earlier in the day.

Wilkerson gathered her three grandchildren at the dais after the council vote.

“You know, my commitment to this city is driven by my compassion and caring. I have to. My grandkids live here too and so do other peoples’ children. Spokane is a city of promise. It’s a city of opportunity and I look forward to working with each and every one of you to overcome our challenges and celebrate our successes and thank you very much for your support," she said.

Wilkerson is the owner of Moore’s Assisted Living, a family business. She has held leadership positions for several volunteer organizations, including the Carl Maxey Center.