Cape Coral Councilman Rick Williams resigns

Cape Coral City Councilman Rick Williams, who led District 6 for eight years, has resigned.

In a letter submitted to the city Thursday, Williams said, it is time to focus on his health and well-being.

His resignation is effective immediately.

“I am proud of the progress our City has made during this time,” Williams said.

He called serving “rewarding professionally and personally.”

“I hope that the individual selected to complete my term has the passion and integrity to vigorously represent the residents of our great City,” Williams said.

Williams’ most cherished contribution to the city was the youth council.

“Even then when he wasn’t feeling, well, you could see the passion that resonated through him about those kids,” Councilman Tom Hayden said.

Hayden told WINK News, at meetings, you could tell when items struck a chord with him.

“Whenever he would speak at council meetings, it was something he was informed on and really cared,” Hayden said.

Hayden said the community came first for Williams.

“He served the community for a long time, so he doesn’t owe anybody anything,” Hayden said. “He paid his dues. He was there for the community, and we appreciate his service.”

Williams is a retired 26-year U.S. Navy veteran and was elected in 2013 to his seat and then re-elected in 2017, according to the City of Cape Coral.

His term was set to expire in 2022.

Cape Coral City Council will hold a special meeting concerning the vacancy at 4 p.m. Monday.