Nick DiCeglie backs Ed Montanari for a second term on St. Pete City Council

Florida Rep. Nick DiCeglie is endorsing Ed Montanari for reelection to St. Petersburg City Council, he announced Monday.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ed at the local level for years, and I’ve seen firsthand his dedication to our community and his tireless work ethic,” DiCeglie said. “No matter the issue, Ed knows how to build a consensus and

get things done for St. Petersburg residents.”

Both DiCeglie and Montanari are Republicans, though City Council seats are non-partisan.

Montanari, who is running for his second term in office, is facing a challenge from Democrat Orlando Acosta.

“I’m honored to have the support of Representative DiCeglie,” Montanari said. “Rep DiCeglie is a local small business owner who understands our community and why it’s so important to promote policies that grow our economy and create jobs. I appreciate his support and am glad to have him on our team.”

DiCeglie’s announcement came the same day Montanari launched his campaign website. The site includes an “issues” section outlining Montanari’s top goals for the city and views on hot topics.

It includes things like protecting the city’s waterfront, shoring up aging infrastructure, preserving neighborhoods and supporting first responders, all issues that are pressing in St. Pete.

It also includes Montanari’s support for the LGBTQ community and for protecting the city against the effects of climate change, issues important to Democrats that could help stave off opposition.

Montanari was first elected four years ago without opposition and currently serves as the vice chair of the board. Montanari also chairs the city’s Budget, Finance and Taxation Committee and Legislative Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations Committee.

Montanari is a long-time St. Pete resident and works as a commercial airline pilot. District 3 represents voters in northeast St. Pete, however all St. Pete voters can cast a ballot in the Nov. 5 election.