Scott Tate (R) topples Adrian Petrila (R) in St. Pete Beach after vicious intraparty challenge

[RandySF]

St. Pete Beach Mayor Adrian Petrila has been denied a second term, falling in Tuesday’s municipal election to challenger Scott Tate after a bitter campaign that featured sharp barbs on both sides.

Tate edged out Petrila with 66% of the vote. With Tuesday’s victory, Tate will take office March 24.

“Tonight, I’m incredibly grateful for the trust the people of St. Pete Beach have placed in me,” Tate said. “Our community has been through a lot, and residents made it clear they want our local government focused on what matters most – fixing the permitting process, strengthening our infrastructure without new taxes, tolls, and assessments, and helping families and businesses fully recover. Receiving the trust of our friends and neighbors to serve as Mayor of St. Pete Beach is a tremendous honor. I will not let you down!”

The race pitted an incumbent challenged by recent hurricanes and the usual beach development battles against a political newcomer who tapped into resident frustration over a difficult hurricane recovery following Hurricane Helene in 2024.




https://floridapolitics.com/archives/784388-scott-tate-topples-adrian-petrila-after-vicious-intraparty-challenge/

[rampartd]

1. "Tate edged out Petrila with 66% of the vote."

man, that is close. i'd ask for a recount.

local issues. but the storm insurance problem is fairly widespread.