Voters on Pensacola Beach will choose their elected representative on the Santa Rosa Island Authority during the General Election on November 4th. This is a non-partisan election. The Santa Rosa Island Authority is comprised of six members. Five are appointed by an Escambia County Commissioner and one is elected by the voters of Pensacola Beach every two years. The elected position can only be filled by a Pensacola Beach resident. The Santa Rosa Island Authority’s composition was amended from five appointees to include a sixth elected member in 1983 by the State Legislature. Pensacola Beach businessman McGuire Martin won the first election.

Dr. Thomas Campanella is the incumbent and will face Terry Preston in the November 4^th General Election.

Dr. Campanella, a local dentist, has been on the SRIA Board for 12 years and lives in Villa Sabine. Terry Preston, a safety and environmental specialist and leasesholder since 1979 is currently serving as the President of Pensacola Beach Advocates. Look for more information on each of the candidates in upcoming newsletter. 

The Santa Rosa Island Authority’s composition was amended from five appointees to include a sixth elected member in 1983 by the State Legislature. Pensacola Beach businessman McGuire Martin won the first election.

Beach residents did not have any elected representation on the SRIA until 1983. It is important that we all exercise this important right to choose who represents us. Make plans to vote on November 4^th – in person at the Beach Community Church, in person at the Election Supervisor’s office or by absentee. You must be a resident and registered voter to participate in the election of this SRIA position.  Get more information on www.escambiavotes.com.