The West Manatee Fire Rescue district needs at least one new candidate for the commission.
With their terms expiring, commission seats held by Randy Cooper and Larry Jennis are up for grabs on the Nov. 3 ballot, and Jennis is seeking reelection.
Commission Chair Randy Cooper told The Islander in a June 4 interview that he will not run again after serving three four-year terms.
He said he is proud of the commission’s accomplishments during his tenure, including implementing a paramedic program to cross-train firefighters.
However, Cooper said it is “time for new blood” now that the district has a new chief and is building a new headquarters.
Jennis told The Islander he will seek reelection.
“I just want to help continue the progress the district has been making over the past few years,” he said.
Jennis was the only candidate to qualify as of June 4, according to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office.
A candidate must be a registered voter in Manatee County and reside in the WMFR district, which includes northwest Bradenton, the three island cities, Palma Sola and Cortez.
The window for qualifying opened June 8 and will close at noon Friday, June 12.
Candidates must submit qualifying paperwork and fees to the SOE, 600 301 Blvd. W., Bradenton.
People interested in becoming a candidate should visit the SOE website, votemanatee.com.