Gov. Rick Scott on Friday announced the appointment of Gregory Hansen to the Flagler County Commission.

Hansen is appointed to fill the vacancy created by the death of Frank Meeker. The term begins Jan. 13.

Hansen is the brother-in-law of Texas U.S. Sen. John Cornyn. The Texas Republican sent Scott a handwritten note in August recommending Hansen for the seat, according to Politico

Scott and Cornyn spoke on the phone Friday, according to the governor's schedule.

"Commissioner Frank Meeker was an incredible asset to the Palm Coast community and will be dearly missed by all," Scott said in a statement. "I am confident that Greg Hansen will work hard on behalf of the residents of Flagler County."

Hansen, 70, of Palm Coast, is a retired captain in the U.S. Navy and previously served as the head appropriations committee liaison for the Office of the Navy Comptroller and a commanding officer on the USS McClusky and the USS Antietam.

Hansen earned a bachelor's degree from the U.S. Naval Academy and his master's degree from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School.

The term ends Nov. 20, 2018.