St. Augustine mayor says she's stepping down due to her health

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — St. Augustine Mayor Nancy Shaver announced late Thursday morning that she is stepping down from her office effective immediately in order to concentrate on her recovery from a stroke she experienced on Monday, according to a release from the city.

Shaver said this to the citizens of St. Augustine in the release:

"Serving each and every one of you as Mayor of this magic city has been an amazing gift. I have been overwhelmed by your support and caring this week and throughout my years as Mayor. It appears my health will not allow me to continue to serve the city and people I love. I will be taking time to recover my health and wish the city leaders well as they do their very best for our city. Sometime soon I hope to see you along the waterfront or playing the washboard at MiCasa Café."

Shaver was elected Mayor of St. Augustine in 2014 and reelected in 2016 and 2018.

Shaver had a stroke after the St. Augustine City Commission meeting while still at City Hall.

Wissel said city staff that was still present following the meeting called 911 and helped the mayor.

Shaver was first taken to Flagler Hospital and then transferred to Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville, where she is still recovering, according to a spokesperson for her family.

The City of St. Augustine’s charter specifies that the remaining members of the Commission have 10 days to fill the mayor’s seat. If not accomplished in that time frame, the Governor has the authority to make the appointment.

The Commission’s next regular meeting is on March 11; however, the City Manager has called a special meeting on Monday at 9 a.m. to address the vacancy. The meeting will be in The Alcazar Room, City Hall, 75 King St. and is open to the public.

Cards or sentiments of support should be sent to the city in care of the City Manager's Office at 75 King St., St. Augustine, FL 32084 or emailed to cosa@CityStAug.com.

Cox Media Group