After a manual recount of Melbourne Beach votes was ordered by the supervisor of elections, the results are in and no changes were made – meaning that incumbent Steve Walters will retain his commission seat for a three-year-term, winning by just six votes over challenger Joyce Barton.
“I have been a part of this community for more than 30 years and I have always worked hard to preserve and protect our quality of life,” Walters said. “Our town faces many challenges and meeting them requires competent leadership applying common sense and administrative skills. I hope to continue to improve our infrastructure and keep our special community in good repair.”
Walters joins incumbent Sherrie Quarrie, who won a three-year term, and newcomer Corey Runte, who claimed victory over Katherine Wilborn for a one-year-term.
Quarrie said she intends to continue her focus on improving the town’s green spaces and making it easier and more convenient to use golf carts and low-speed vehicles in town.
“I believe these vehicles will save the community money through less road repairs and reduced local emissions, plus they are fun to get around town in,” Quarrie said.
“I am grateful and excited to have another three years to work towards improvements, plus commission projects such as sustainability, storm water runoff and system rebuilding.”
Runte said he believes that the increasing influx of younger families to the area helped propel his win.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting and connecting with a majority of local residents and business owners and am thankful for all the new friendships and relationships that will continue to grow through the coming years,” Runte said.
“Having grown up in Melbourne and Melbourne Beach, I consider myself blessed to have the opportunity to give back to the community by developing a long-term, sustainable plan for our town, all while protecting its special charm for my children’s generation and future generations.”
When the race began, six candidates vied for three spots; two (three-year term) seats and one seat, left open after former vice mayor Tom Davis resigned in August, for a one-year term.
On Nov. 14, both Quarrie and Runte were sworn in as commissioners.
Walters will be sworn in for his new term within the next few weeks.
