In races for St Johns County commission seats, Historic City News backed, recommended and endorsed each of the three successful candidates for Board of County Commissioners, at least two of which bucked the incumbent or their intended successor.
This morning, Historic City News Editor Michael Gold saw St Augustine Record Editor Peter Ellis downtown and each exchanged a few good-natured barbs; Ellis saying that it was a “good day for the Tea Party” and Gold retorting that at least Historic City News knew whom to endorse. Ellis did not get away without first explaining the difference between “by” and “bye” — Gold informed Ellis that he was too late; his wife, who is the publisher of Historic City News, already beat him to it.
District 3 is done. Bill McClure is elected and does not face an opponent in November. With former commissioner Mark Miner abandoning the remainder of his term, hopes are that Governor Rick Scott will appoint McClure to fill the vacant seat so that the county’s budget process can conclude with participation from a full five-member board.
District 1 and 5 have one more challenge. In November, Cyndi Stevenson, who is running her third campaign with Historic City News’ endorsement, will face Merrill Roland who is running for District 1 without party affiliation. Rachael Bennett faces former Airport Authority member, Randy Brunson, who is also running without party affiliation for the District 5 seat.
Congratulations to Commissioner-elect McClure, Commissioner Stevenson and candidate Rachael Bennett, we have the makings of an excellent Board of County Commissioners all of whom will be accessible to Historic City News readers during the coming 4 years.