It's official...a long time Alachua County politician will leave office Thursday.
The former Gainesville City Commissioner and Mayor announced his retirement back in June. December 15th will be current Alachua County Commissioner Rodney Long's last day.
Now Governor Rick Scott can choose a replacement to fill the seat until the November 2012 elections...a choice that could change the dynamic of county politics.
No word on who will throw their names into the hat to be considered for the appointment, or on when the governor would make his decision.