A.G. Gancarski
Those with long institutional memories in Jacksonville noted that the JAX Chamber, via its JAXBIZ political arm, took a much more active role in the 2015 municipal elections than in previous years. That effort was helped along by meaningful funding and resource allocation for endorsed candidates, and Tuesday’s election showed it paid off.
Mayor-elect Lenny Curry, Sheriff-elect Mike Williams, and five city council members — Democrats Tommy Hazouri, Reggie Gaffney and Joyce Morgan, along with Republicans Anna Brosche and Scott Wilson — prevailed in their races, joining a slate of 10 other JAXBIZ-approved candidates who were elected in the First Election in March.
Encompassing Republicans and Democrats alike, the JAXBIZ slate effectively makes the Chamber the big winners of the local election, ensuring a united front when it comes to executing a pro-business agenda in Jacksonville.
“It was clearly time for a change at city hall and Mayor-elect Curry and Sheriff-elect Williams are the next brand of visionary leaders and change agents for the next generation that will move Jacksonville forward,” JAXBIZ Chairman Mike Hightower said.
“The JAXBIZ board made some bold decisions and went with candidates who represent the new visionary leadership for Jacksonville,” Hightower said of the slate of newly elected council members. “We needed thoughtful leadership that will work with Mayor-elect Curry to position us for economic success.”
