Political Pulse: Tracking North Central Florida Politics, Campaigns, and Governance

Political Developments in North Central Florida

Carrying The Torch in Columbia County

Columbia County District 4 Commissioner Everett Phillips is preparing for another challenging re-election campaign. In 2022, Phillips successfully reclaimed the seat he had previously lost to Toby Witt. Now, he faces competition from two other candidates: Chris Dicks of Lake City and business owner Glenn Keen. District 4 covers the southeastern corner of Columbia County, and the race is expected to be closely watched.

Shifting Sands in Levy County

Levy County Commissioners are considering a new proposal for a sand mine in the Northeast corner of the county. Landowners Mildred Johns and June Stoeber have petitioned the Board for a Special Exception for a mining operation on 99 acres. Local residents are concerned about the potential increase in truck traffic on State Road 24. This follows a similar proposal in 2024 that was approved but later voided by a judge due to procedural issues. The meeting is scheduled for 9am.

Aggravations in Archer

City leaders in Archer are dealing with multiple crises at the end of the year. Interim City Manager Deanna Alltop has taken Family Medical Leave, leaving only one staff member to handle financial transactions. A temporary part-time interim City Manager is being sought, but the process has been complicated by late application submissions. Commissioners have decided to hold a Special Meeting next Monday to make a decision.

Getting Schooled in Gainesville

The Alachua County Legislative Delegation made a late appearance at the University of Florida’s “Eye Opener Discovery Lunch.” The event coincided with the end of Interim Committee meetings in Tallahassee and Fall Commencement Exercises at UF. Discussions focused on Higher Education funding, state audits, and the next President of UF.

Hedging Their Bets in Ocala

A horse racing facility may soon be established in Marion County. The Florida Thoroughbred and Breeders and Owners Association (FTBOA) has formed a long-term agreement with financial backers led by former Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine and attorney John Morgan. The plan involves developing a modern Thoroughbred racing and entertainment complex. Gulfstream Park, which has pursued “decoupling” legislation, is facing challenges that could impact the entire industry.

You Gotta Have Art in Gainesville

Gainesville City and Alachua County Commissioners held a Joint Meeting to discuss plans for a Cultural Center for the Eastside. Commissioner Desmon Duncan-Walker, after visiting existing cultural centers, wants to expand arts programs in East Gainesville. However, there are no immediate plans to convert the Duval Early Learning Center into an arts center.

Certain Conditions in Gainesville

Alachua County School Board Member Tina Certain may be running for the County Commission. She announced her intention at a recent dinner, and the District 2 seat will be open as incumbent Marihelen Wheeler is not running. Potential opponents include Byran Williams, Adam Joy, and Robert Woody.

Early Birds in Marion

Marion County Commission races are already gaining attention. Kathy Bryant, a long-time District 2 Commissioner, has decided not to run for re-election, and two candidates have already filed. Carl Zalak, the incumbent District 4 Commissioner, is expected to run, but several Republicans have also filed.

Show Me The Money in Gainesville

City Commissioners received a revised plan for the NE 8th Ave/Waldo Road corridor renovation project. The budget was reduced from $84 million to $53 million, with the MLK Center no longer being built. Efforts to sell Citizens Field to the School Board continue, but funding remains a challenge.

What’re You Talkin About, Williston?

Tensions flared during a Williston City Council meeting when Council members Debra Jones and Alexa Haniff-Riccio had a heated exchange. The discussion centered around the Light Up Williston public holiday event, scheduled for Saturday at Heritage Park.

Chamberlin’s Bill Waits in the Wings

HB 149, proposed by GOP Rep. Ryan Chamberlin, aims to roll back property tax levies to 2022-2023 levels. However, it has not moved since being assigned to the Select Committee on Property Taxes. Four Constitutional Amendments related to property taxes have passed, but local government officials oppose the changes.

One Vote Matters in Trenton

Incumbent City Commissioner Russel Williams won re-election by a single vote, securing the Group One Seat. Despite a recent controversy over the Public Safety Department budget, voter turnout was low at 15%.

Trenton Votes

In Trenton, emotions are high following the City Council's decision to dissolve the Public Safety Department. Only one seat on the City Commission is contested, with Williams facing Nikki Deen and Terry Livesay. In Waldo, only one candidate filed for each of the three open seats.