Whatever the results of the next Ocala election may be, one thing is certain: The Ocala City Council will look completely different come this fall.
That’s because two of the seats will not face reelection efforts from the men who currently hold them.
Councilman Matthew Wardell, who announced his intention to resign from the board earlier this year, is stepping away from his role on the Ocala City Council
In District 5, Ocala City Council President Justin Grabelle will not seek reelection as well. councilman Matthew Wardell will leave their seats in Districts 5 and 4, respectively, opening the door for multiple residents who have already tossed their hats in the ring.
In addition to the two vacant seats, two additional seats will be up for grabs. President Pro-Ten Brent Malever will defend his District 1 seat, while council member Jay Musleh will defend his District 3 seat.
Mayor Kent Guinn’s seat, which is also up for grabs, does not have voting power on the Ocala City Council despite being able to issue vetoes.
Among other items, the ballot will feature a proposed change to the City Charter that was approved by Ocala City Council members earlier this year.