ORANGE PARK – Orange Park’s leadership underwent changes as Doug Benefield was selected as the new vice mayor, filling the vacancy left by Susana Thompson. Thompson, who served for two and a half years, resigned for personal reasons.

Councilwoman Winnette Sandlin nominated Benefield, and he was confirmed with a 3-0 vote. Town Manager Sarah Campbell swore Benefield into his new position.

The council then decided to combine a special election to replace Thompson and Councilman Daniel Cobreiro, who resigned in protest of Form 6, and the Municipal Super Tuesday Election on April 9.

Another option the council had was having the special election on March 26, followed two weeks later by the Municipal Super Tuesday. Added to the Presidential Preference Primary Election on March 19, a special election would have sent residents to the polls three times in four weeks.

It also would have cost the town as much as $6,000 in additional expenses if it split the two local elections.

“The winners will not take their seats until the second Tuesday in May, causing a longer lag time for service in the town,” Campbell said.

Benefield wondered how candidates would simultaneously manage two campaigns and elections. Mayor Randy Anderson questioned if separate local elections would affect voter turnout, while Sandlin said candidates would be required to pay two different qualifying fees.

“It’s not a lot of money in the grand scheme of things, but it does add up, she said.

Anderson and three residents advocated for simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

“Make it simple. It’s difficult to find people that want to go through the hassle of running. Keep it simple and cheap,” said resident Steve May.