As the sun rises over Flagler Beach, excitement brews for the upcoming city commission elections. On March 3, 2023, residents will head to the polls to select two city commissioners. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at City Hall, located at 105 S. 2nd St. This election comes at a pivotal time for the community, as voters will decide between experienced incumbents and a fresh newcomer. For more details, you can visit this source.
The candidates include incumbents Rick Belhumeur and Scott Spradley, both seasoned in local governance, alongside newcomer R.J. Santore, who brings a different perspective to the table. Each candidate has distinct priorities that reflect their vision for Flagler Beach’s future.
Meet the Candidates
Rick Belhumeur is 72 years young and currently serves as the city commissioner and vice chair. With a background as a retired heavy equipment mechanic, Belhumeur has been actively involved in local politics since his election in 2016. His top priorities include implementing citywide upgrades from the stormwater master plan, responsible budgeting, and restoring procedural integrity in city policies. Belhumeur is committed to providing stability during staff transitions and protecting Flagler Beach’s independence from over-development.
R.J. Santore, at 44, is a newcomer to the political scene, working as the vice president of a pyrotechnics manufacturing company. Although he lacks prior elected experience, Santore has been actively engaged in civic matters for over two years. His main focuses are ensuring new developments pay for their infrastructure costs, securing funding for beach renourishment, and preserving the small-town character and natural resources of Flagler Beach. He aims to advocate for residents and small businesses, emphasizing community engagement.
Scott Spradley, aged 70, is an attorney specializing in estate planning and bankruptcy. As a current city commissioner, Spradley has been involved in various local committees since his election in 2023. His priorities include repairing and replacing aging water systems, protecting beaches through sand replenishment, and developing a new master parking plan. Spradley is eager to continue addressing growth-related challenges while valuing the lifestyle that Flagler Beach offers.
Election Logistics
The election will only take place at City Hall due to a temporary change from the usual polling location, which is closed. If you’re looking for more information about the election, you can check out this link or call 386-313-4170 for assistance.
This election is not just about choosing representatives; it’s about shaping the future of Flagler Beach. Local elections are a vital part of civic engagement, allowing residents to have a direct impact on community decisions. As highlighted in various studies on local politics, including research on municipal elections, participation at this level can foster a stronger connection between citizens and their elected officials. The importance of local governance cannot be overstated, as it affects daily life in ways that are often more immediate than federal or state politics. For further insights into the dynamics of local elections, consider exploring the recent publication by Kerstin Völkl and Michael Jankowski on municipal elections in Germany, which discusses various aspects of local political participation and engagement. You can find more about it here.
As the election day approaches, residents of Flagler Beach are encouraged to stay informed and make their voices heard. This is a pivotal moment for the community, and every vote counts!