ANNA MARIA – Anna Maria’s two-week period to qualify for the city election ended at noon Friday and four candidates will run in the city elections this fall.
Carol Carter, Doug Copeland, Laurie Jo Higgins and Dale Woodland will compete for three commission seats in the election that will conclude Tuesday, Nov. 7. Vote by mail ballots will go out in early October.
Carter is seeking her third term in office. The ongoing battle with state legislators regarding local vacation rental regulations remains a priority.
“I’m running for reelection to continue to support our residents and our way of life,” Carter said. “Through our recent efforts, we made a mark in the state in establishing that residents have rights too. We’ve gained some ground, but I must keep working on behalf of our residents and their quality of life.”
Copeland is seeking his third, full two-year term in office. He began his commission service in 2013 when he served the final five months of John Quam’s term after Quam resigned.
“I want to see City Pier Park finished, the pier at least under construction and the Bert Harris claims resolved,” Copeland said. He added that he and the commission have unfinished business.
Higgins, a first-time candidate, is looking for change.
“Many people out here, including myself, feel like they haven’t been heard by our current commission,” she said. “I’m not in favor of many of the
decisions that have been put forth and before any more are made I want to be a part of it. Instead of complaining, I’d like to be an active part of the solution.”
Woodland is seeking his eighth term in office.
“I love this job. I love the people and the community. They seem happy with me, and being a public servant is the best job I’ve ever had. I don’t have an agenda. I’m going to continue to do the things I’ve been doing and I don’t see the need to change any strategy,” he said.
Tuesday, Oct. 10 is the last day to register to vote in the fall elections.
