Jan.06, 2010, From: Sun Sentinel

Last year's federal money-laundering sting and arrest of Broward County Commissioner Josephus Eggelletion will lead to a special city election on April 13.

Two candidates qualified to run Wednesday: Bobbie H. Grace, 64, a retired BellSouth clerk and former city commissioner, vice mayor and mayor, faces political newcomer Carolyn W. Jones, 62, a retired Broward County schools counselor for special-needs children.

Jones is married to Broward County Commissioner Albert C. Jones, chosen by Gov. Charlie Crist to replace Eggelletion. That appointment created the vacancy on the city dais.

Carolyn Jones' candidacy raises residency concerns for the couple: She must live in the city, and he is supposed to reside in Broward County Commission District 9, which does not include Dania Beach.

"He's in the process of moving into the district," Jones said. "I will stay in the family home that I designed and built the way I want it. He will do whatever it takes to accommodate his constituents in District 9."

Jones said her goals are "to fight against the runway expansion and crime, and have open, transparency in government."

Grace said after eight years of public service and being away from politics for a dozen years, "residents asked me to run. They know I have the expertise so why try to groom someone new?"

She wants to fix drainage systems and sidewalks, fight crime and expand the marine business. She said she will oppose an airport runway expansion and will protect residents' concerns about noise and property values.

Whoever wins the city office, which pays $20,283 a year plus health benefits, will fulfill the rest of Albert C. Jones' four-year term that ends March 2011.