Bronx residents hit the polls this weekend to vote early in the special election for City Council District 12.

The empty seat was left after former councilman Andy King was expelled by a 48 to 2 vote in October following ethics investigations by the City Council.

Pamela Hamilton Johnson, Neville Mitchell and Kevin Riley are the three candidates looking to fill the vacancy.Voters say they want to be part of the process to better their neighborhood."

We want to be part of everything that goes on in the community, and we have to have someone who's going to look out for us," says Naomi DaCosta.

"Take more interest in the community."

Early voting continues until Dec. 20, and the election is officially scheduled for Dec. 22.

Residents can also vote by mail via absentee ballot.

Those who want to must submit an online application by Tuesday.