Lake Wales, Florida – A week ago a the Lake Wales Community was apprised of the reinstatement of commissioner Kris Fitzgerald, by Governor Ron DeSantis. As reported then, Fitzgerald was acquitted recently on all charges of interference with the custody of a child. Those charges stemmed from an incident Fitzgerald was accused of in early 2021. In a strange twist a formality is not permitting Fitzgerald take back her seat even with the reinstatement by the governor.
According to information released at tonight’s Lake Wales City Commission meeting, Fitzgerald has moved from her previous residence and no longer resides in Seat 4 area.
Fitzgerald was at the commission meeting and spoke:
Citizens also came to Fitzgerald side in support of her returning:
New commissioner had a few words on the matter also:
Commissioner Williams also spoke:
Deputy-Mayor Gibson said he doesn’t know how to change something that is self-executing as this provision that causes a Commissioner to vacate their seat. He suggested giving Fitzgerald to the next meeting to find a way to keep her seat with her attorney.
This is a ongoing situation and we will update as more information becomes available.
