Election season is about to get underway in Bradenton Beach.
Two incumbents — Mayor John Chappie and Commissioner Jan Vosburgh in Ward 3 — told The Islander July 26 that they plan to seek reelection in November, while a third incumbent, Commissioner Jake Spooner in Ward 1, said he was undecided.
All their terms end in November.
The window to qualify to run for election in Bradenton Beach will open at noon, Aug. 28, and run through noon Sept. 1.
To qualify, a candidate must file forms with the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office naming a campaign bank account and appointing a campaign treasurer.
Candidates also must submit proof of residency in the city for 12 months, be a registered voter in Manatee County and pay 4% of one year’s salary of the office sought.
Commissioners receive $400 a month for their service, while the mayor receives $800 monthly.
Chappie has served the city for more than 12 years as mayor, in two separate six-year periods, and six years as a city commissioner. He also served a term as a county commissioner.
“We’ve been able to do a lot in the last six years,” Chappie said. “I think we’ve accomplished a lot for the good of our community. I want to help be a part of the team to help continue the positive direction we have been heading.”
“This is my home. I am celebrating my 48th year here in Bradenton Beach,” Chappie added.
Vosburgh has lived in Bradenton Beach since 2003 and has served the city as a commissioner for 10 years — not consecutively.
“You have to do your duty as a citizen,” she said. “No matter how small or large it is.”
Spooner has served four two-year terms as a commissioner.
Due to a 2022 vote of the electorate to amend the city charter and eliminate term limits, Spooner was able to retain his seat for a fourth term in 2024.
Spooner, a local entrepreneur, made recent headlines for the July 10 purchase of a $4,75 million 1.83-acre commercial property at 5325 Gulf Drive and 5327 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach.
In addition, Spooner also owns Fish Hole Miniature Golf, 115 Bridge St., and Bridge Street Bazaar as well as the building that houses the bazaar and the Daiquiri Deck at 107 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach.
Bradenton Beach has 644 registered voters, according to the Manatee Supervisor of Elections.
In the 2021 election, 348 voters cast ballots.
In the 2022 election, 494 voters cast ballots.
For more about candidacy requirements or the election go online to the elections office website, at votemanatee.com.
The election will be Tuesday, Nov. 7.