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Four candidates are vying to be the next mayor of Lakeland, and they are generating a lot of attention because of how diverse the playing field is in this election. FOX 13’s Regina Gonzalez reports.

LAKELAND, Fla. – The votes are in, and Sara Roberts McCarley will take over as the City of Lakeland’s next mayor. 

Lakeland voters cast their ballots on Tuesday to elect a new mayor — the first leadership change the city has seen in six years. McCarley won the vote by just slightly over 50%, preventing the need for a runoff election. 

She will succeed outgoing Mayor Bill Mutz, who’s stepping down after two terms.

Who is Sara Roberts McCarley?

Sara is a current city commissioner and nonprofit leader, and says she wants to build on Lakeland’s growth through teamwork and transparency.

She’s known for launching programs like the city’s internship initiative and leading the legislative committee.

The race also featured three other candidates with distinct perspectives and priorities. 

Who were the other candidates? 

Kaitlin Kramer:

Kaitlin is a 24-year-old University of South Florida graduate and restaurant manager, who calls herself a “working-class candidate.”

She says her service-industry experience taught her leadership and budgeting skills, and she campaigned on infrastructure improvements, flooding fixes, and affordable housing.

Cedrick Valrie:

Cedrick is a Southeastern University professor who ran for office for the first time. He said he was inspired by Lakelanders struggling to afford housing. 

He called for policies that promote “affordable everyday housing” and attract higher-wage jobs to keep graduates local.

Kay Klymko:

Kay is a retired family nurse practitioner with more than 40 years in health care. She says her campaign centered on “community well-being.”

She supports projects such as a Senior Hub and a new Police Athletic League facility, saying city leadership must care for vulnerable residents, including seniors, youth, and the unhoused.

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The Source: Information for this story was gathered by FOX 13’s Regina Gonzalez.

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