BREAKING: Longtime Lake Wales City Commissioner Robin Gibson has announced that he will not seek reelection, marking a significant shift in local governance. Gibson, who has served since his election in 2016, will conclude his tenure as two candidates emerge to replace him in Seat 5: Gene Fultz, a former mayor, and Terri Miller, a local business owner.
The election is set for April 7, with qualifying for candidates having closed on February 20. Gibson, aged 89, cited a major life change as the catalyst for his decision. He is selling his home of 57 years to move into a newly renovated apartment in downtown Lake Wales, which disqualifies him from serving in his current district.
“I have been an advocate for the downtown since 1969,” Gibson stated. “I’m going to be living what I was advocating.” The apartment, located on Park Avenue, sits above a bridal shop and event space, transforming what was once deemed the worst-looking building downtown into a successful renovation project.
Gibson’s legacy includes pivotal involvement in the restoration of the historic Walesbilt Hotel. As chair of the Community Redevelopment Agency, he played a crucial role in regaining ownership of the property and selecting Restoration St. Louis as the developer in a vote last October. “The restoration of the Walesbilt is the most important action the Lake Wales City Commission has undertaken in decades,” Gibson emphasized.
While Gibson steps away from his official role, he expressed a desire to remain active in community redevelopment efforts. “I probably will stay active in some form with the city,” he said, hinting at potential involvement as a citizen member of the CRA Board or in an advisory capacity.
Commissioner Keith Thompson will continue in Seat 3 without opposition, securing a second term as the election approaches. As the city prepares for this transition, the impact of Gibson’s departure is palpable, leaving voters and candidates alike in anticipation of the changes ahead.
Stay tuned for more updates as the election date approaches and as Lake Wales navigates this pivotal moment in its community leadership.
