Newcomers enter 2020 political races

Posted on March 5, 2019 by Romi White

Several newcomers are vying for local races to be decided during the 2020 election cycle.

Retired Naval Senior Chief Ryan Adkins Sr., who was raised in Santa Rosa County and moved back following his military career, prefiled March 1 for the Santa Rosa County District 3 seat held by longtime commissioner Don Salter, who hasn’t yet officially announced whether or not he will seek a fifth term.

Geoff Ross, also a retired senior chief, is challenging District 1 incumbent Sam Parker, who is currently chairman of the board of commissioners. Parker prefiled for re-election in May 2018.

David Gunter, Santa Rosa County School District’s Director for Labor Relations and Compliance last August prefiled for Superintendent of Schools, following news that longtime Superintendent Tim Wyrosdick would be retiring.

Elizabeth Hewey of Pace prefiled for the District 2 School Board seat, which is currently held by Buddy Hinote.

Additionally, Santa Rosa County Supervisor of Elections Tappie Villane today prefiled for a third term in the seat she has held since January 2013.