MIDWAY, Fla. — NanDrycka King Albert is Midway's choice to take over the council seat that Mayor Wanda Range has held for the past four years.
This, after the Florida Commission on Ethics says it found probable cause that Range violated the anti-nepotism law by appointing a relative to the position of Mayor Pro Tem and misusing city owned property.
Councilwoman-elect King Albert says the election is evidence of the change that needs to take place in Midway.
"My role is to pick up the torch and move the city of Midway in a different direction. A direction that is one inclusive of the people who live in this city," said Albert.
Albert has lived in Midway for 12 years and says she's not a politician, she's a resident, who is clear on her priorities for the city.
"Economic growth, there needs to be a shift in the professionalism of the city, police protection," said Albert. "We have a beautiful city with a lot of potential, so now we just need to move forward with listening to the people and being sure our needs are being met."
Albert says she is excited about the journey and looks forward to being a servant leader to the people of Midway and making sure there's a shift in culture.
"The city has grown and now it's time to grow with the times and I am definitely looking forward to the adventure," said Albert.
We reached out to Mayor Wanda Range for a comment and she had this to say:
"Tuesday’s election was an opportunity for the citizens of Midway to use their voices. First, to all of the candidates, I think it was important that there were 6 women on the ballot. This was phenomenal. As the outgoing mayor and City Council Member for District 3, I want to thank the citizens of Midway for entrusting our City with me. I charge the new Commissioners with completing projects such as creating another entrance into the Rustling Pines subdivision, working with County and State officials to complete our hookup to a sewer system, and continue to bring economic development to the City. And, as I charge the new Commissioners, I also charge the citizens to engage more in the City’s actions. A dismal 29% of our voters came out and that’s what’s upsetting to me. We need to increase our citizens involvement, so they own the process. And, congratulations to our new Council members."
Councilwoman Albert will be sworn in Thursday night at City Hall. The meeting starts at 6:00 p.m.
Council is expected to select a new mayor at that meeting as well.
As for Mayor Range, the Florida Commission on Ethics says:
"Her complaint is pending a public hearing or settlement agreement at this time. She is entitled to a full evidentiary hearing to determine whether a violation of law actually has occurred."
