Every incumbent will seek reelection in Anna Maria.
Mayor Dan Murphy wrote in a June 2 text message to The Islander that he will run for his fifth two-year term in November’s election.
Murphy was first elected in 2014 and was elected without opposition in 2016, 2018 and 2020.
His current term is set to expire in November.
Murphy will be the third incumbent seeking reelection this year. Commissioners Deanie Sebring and Mark Short announced their reelection bids the week beginning May 23.
The window to qualify to run for the seats opened at noon June 6, and close at noon, Friday, June 17.
To qualify, potential candidates must file forms with the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office to detail a campaign bank account and appoint a campaign treasurer.
Potential candidates also must obtain 10 signatures from registered voters in the city, submit an affidavit of residency and pay 1% of the annual pay they would receive if elected.
Mayors are paid $19,600 annually.
Commissioners receive a $4,800 annual stipend.
Without challengers, they would automatically retain their seats.
The city has struggled to produce candidates and challengers in recent history. The last election with a vote between competing candidates was in 2017. Everyone since has either won without competition or was appointed by commission vote.
If there are challengers, the city’s voters will decide who will represent them Tuesday, Nov. 8, in the general election.
There were 968 registered voters in Anna Maria as of May 9, according to the SOE.
To learn more about the election, go to the SEO’s website, at votemanatee.com.