Bradenton Beach Commissioner Ralph Cole will not seek reelection after 10 years at the dais.
Cole made the announcement May 21, during a city meeting, saying he wanted to give people time to consider running before the qualifying period closes June 12.
“I want to spend some time with my family,” Cole said. “I’ve got six grandkids.”
Cole represents Ward 3 on the commission. Due to ward adjustments in 2024, an additional year was added to his term, extending it to 2026.
A longtime commissioner, former vice mayor and former chair of the Community Redevelopment Agency, Cole frequently has been involved in discussions on redevelopment, infrastructure, storm recovery and transportation issues.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Scott Bear of Ward 2 said he was undecided about seeking reelection.
“I’m strongly considering running again, but I haven’t made a final decision,” Bear said. “I’ve gotten all the paperwork.”
Bear, a civil engineer and chairperson of the Bradenton Beach CRA, was elected in 2024 after running unopposed for the seat held by Marilyn Maro.
Candidates must reside within the ward they represent, but commissioners are elected at-large — all city voters cast ballots for all commission races.
Ward 2 is generally bounded by 26th Street North, south to include the mid-city mid-island area.
Ward 3 generally encompasses portions of the central city south of Ward 2 to Cortez Road.
The Ward 2 seat is for a two-year term. The Ward 3 seat is for a one-year term.
Prequalifying will be May 26-June 6. Official qualifying will be noon June 8-noon June 12.
To qualify, candidates must provide proof of residency, appoint a campaign treasurer, open a campaign bank account and pay a qualifying fee equal to 4% of the annual salary for the office sought.
Commissioners earn $400 per month.
The city had 468 registered voters as of May 22, according to the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.