The Florence Town Council is working to fill its second vacancy of 2024, following a series of unexpected departures that have left the Council in an unprecedented situation.
The current vacancy stems from Tracy Florea’s withdrawal after winning election in the July primary, having become ineligible to serve after moving outside town limits. This followed an earlier departure by incumbent Arthur “Snake” Neal, who withdrew his candidacy in April 2024 citing competing personal and professional priorities.
The first vacancy was filled in May 2024 when the Council unanimously appointed Cathy Adam, who brought experience from her service on various town boards including the Historic District Advisory Commission and Planning and Zoning Commission. Adam has since been elevated to the position of Vice-Mayor.
Now, the Council is taking steps to fill Florea’s vacant seat, voting 5-1 on December 16 to establish a focused selection process. The approved procedure specifically targets former Council members whose terms expired in 2024, requiring them to submit written responses by December 30 addressing two questions: what they hoped to accomplish during their previous Council service but couldn’t complete, and what they might have done differently while serving.
Vice-Mayor Adam emphasized the unprecedented nature of the situation, noting that having a candidate withdraw after an election has never occurred before in Arizona municipal government. The Council’s decision to limit candidates to recent former members stems from concerns about the significant learning curve required for current town issues.
Among those who have expressed interest in serving is Tom Rankin, whose long history in Florence includes service as Police Chief, mayor, and council member. During public comments, Rankin discussed his experience in local government. Councilmember Tony Bencina cast the lone dissenting vote against the selection process.
For citizens interested in serving on the Council, the write-in candidate deadline extends to June 20, 2024. Qualified candidates must be at least eighteen years old, be a qualified elector residing within town limits, and have lived in Florence for at least one year.
The Council plans to review applications and potentially make an appointment at a special meeting scheduled for January 6, 2025, at 5:30 PM. The appointed individual will serve until the 2026 election cycle, subject to election law changes.
These Council changes come amid other leadership transitions, including the September 2024 appointment of Bruce Walls as Town Manager. The town is also seeking applications for positions on various boards and commissions, including the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Appeals.
