A challenger is waiting in the wings in Holmes Beach.
Planning Commission Chair Greg Kerchner announced June 1 that he will run for one of two city commission seats up for grabs in this year’s election.
Kerchner, who joined the planning commission in 2019 and has served as chair since 2020, said he wants to become more involved in the city.
“This was not an easy decision for me to make, but there are just too many important issues facing our city,” Kerchner said. “I hope to put to good use everything I’ve learned from you. … I’m convinced I can make a difference.”
In the meantime, Kerchner said he’d sought legal advice about his position on the planning commission.
Kerchner said he can retain his seat before the election because it is appointed, not elected. However, if his election bid succeeds, he must resign from the planning board before accepting a seat on the city commission.
Kerchner is gunning for a commission seat now held by either Jayne Christenson or Kim Rash, who have not responded to inquiries from The Islander about their own bids for reelection.
In the event all three — or more candidates qualify — the two candidates with the most votes will be seated.
Mayor Judy Titsworth, whose term expires in November, has confirmed she will seek reelection.
The window to qualify to run will open at noon, Monday, June 13, and close at noon, Friday, June 17.
To qualify, potential candidates must file forms with the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office, detailing a campaign bank account and appointing a treasurer.
Potential candidates also must obtain 15 signatures from registered voters in the city, submit an affidavit of residency and pay 1% of the annual pay they would receive if elected.
The mayor receives a $27,120 annual salary.
Commissioners receive $7,819.92 yearly.
The city’s voters will decide who will represent them Tuesday, Nov. 8, in the general election.
There were 2,681 registered voters in Holmes Beach as of May 9, according to the SOE.
To learn more about the election, go to the SOE’s website, at votemanatee.com.