GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Mayor Thomas Smith resigned from the City Council on Monday, June 16, the city announced.

“It is with sincere regret that the City of Green Cove Springs announces the immediate resignation of Mayor and City Council Member Thomas Smith, whose evolving work-related obligations have made it no longer possible for him to continue fulfilling the duties of public office,” the city posted in a release.

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 came with great personal disappointment, he emphasized the importance of remaining fully compliant with the responsibilities of his professional role outside of public office.

Smith also conveyed his complete confidence in the city’s leadership and staff to continue the critical work initiated during his time on the City Council, and he extended his best wishes for the City Council’s continued success.

As a result of his resignation, the City Council will select a new Mayor and Vice Mayor during Tuesday night’s regularly scheduled City Council meeting at 6 p.m. at City Hall. Additionally, the city will hold a special election to fill the vacant council seat. More details, including qualifying dates and election information, will be announced in the coming days.

For more information, please get in touch with Heather Fincher, Public Information Officer, at (904) 297-7046 or hfincher@greencovesprings.com.