If you live in Bradenton Beach and you’ve wanted to get involved in local politics, now might be your chance.
Two people have applied to fill the Ward 1 city commission seat vacated near the end of 2023 by Jake Spooner and the application window remains open.
Spooner, who had served as commissioner since 2015 and earned another unopposed term in 2023, cited the state’s newly expanded financial disclosure requirement as the reason for his Dec. 28 resignation.
Applicants for the seat include:
- Debbie Scaccianoce, co-owner of Double Deez Chicago Style Hotdogs, 3009 Gulf Drive N., Holmes Beach, and previously a records manager for Manatee County;
- Gary Michniewicz, a former division director for Speedway LLC, and former board member for the Knights of Columbus’ juvenile diabetes initiative.
The city is still taking applications from residents who live within Ward 1, but the boundaries are shifting to accommodate a shift in the electorate.
During a Jan. 18 meeting, commissioners reviewed ward redistricting recommendations from the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections office.
City attorney Ricinda Perry outlined proposed modifications, including shifting the boundaries of Ward 1 and Ward 2 and reversing the numbers for Ward 3 and Ward 4 to ensure sequential numbering from the city’s north to the south boundaries.
Mayor John Chappie and Commissioner Ralph Cole expressed satisfaction with the recommended changes and commissioners reached a consensus to approve them.
The review of wards is required before Spooner’s successor can be decided because the individual must reside in Ward 1.
The ward changes will require the adoption of an ordinance with two public hearings.
Then the commission, as required under the city charter, can propose nominees for the vacant Ward 1 seat and vote to fill the remaining term, which ends in November 2025.
If a majority decision on an appointment is not reached by the commission after two meetings, the city clerk will choose a successor by lot from the proposed nominees.
Applicants for the seat must be registered voters who have permanently resided in Bradenton Beach for 12 calendar months.
Those interested in applying can get an application at city hall.
City commissioners receive $400 a month.
The next commission meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, at city hall,107 Gulf Drive N.