GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. – The city of Green Cove Springs has a new mayor.
City Council member Matt Johnson was chosen during Tuesday’s meeting to replace Mayor and City Council Member Thomas Smith after Smith’s sudden resignation.
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In a news release ahead of Tuesday’s meeting, the city said Smith’s evolving work-related obligations “have made it no longer possible for him to continue fulfilling the duties of public office.”
According to the city, in his communication to the city manager, Smith expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve the residents of Green Cove Springs, calling it an “incredible honor” and acknowledging the trust placed in him by the community.
While the decision comes with great personal disappointment, he emphasized the importance of remaining in full compliance with the responsibilities of his professional role outside of public office.
Smith also conveyed his full confidence in the city’s leadership and staff to continue the important work initiated during his time on the City Council, and he extended his best wishes for the City Council’s continued success.
During Tuesday’s meeting, the council decided that Edward Gaw will continue as vice mayor.
The city will hold a special election to fill the vacant City Council seat. More details, including qualifying dates and election information, will be announced in the coming days.
The city thanked Smith for his dedication and service to Green Cove Springs and wished him well in his future endeavors.
