Political newcomer Joyce Tuten upset incumbent Mayor Bradley Bean, while Tim Poynter won a third term and incumbent Vice Mayor David Sturges retained his seat on the city commission.
Tuten, a retired high school science teacher and community volunteer, ran on a campaign of "better not bigger," a platform of retaining the city's small-town charm, environmental assets and having controlled development in the city. She also opposed RYAM's plan to build a bioethanol plant in the city.
"This victory is a testament to our shared commitment to making our community an even better place to live, work and grow," Tuten said. "As your commissioner, I am ready to listen, serve and work alongside each of you to tackle the challenges ahead and seize the opportunities for a brighter future."
Bean, the son of U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean, was elected in 2020. His campaign of "Fernandina first" marshalled the local and statewide GOP in support of his re-election. He boasted a record of lowering taxes and building parks. Bean, who works at RYAM, said building a bioethanol plant was a "no brainer."
Tim Poynter, a two-time city commissioner, defeated Christy LaByer Kelly to win a third term on the commission. It was Kelly's first run for city commission.
"I just want to thank all of the voters. I'm grateful for another opportunity to serve the wonderful people of Fernandina," Poynter said.
Vice Mayor Sturges, who owns a local construction company, was elected in 2020. His campaign was financed in part by developers and real estate interests. He won on a campaign of "promises made, promises kept." But his tenure on the commission was marked by the late-night firing of City Manager Dale Martin, raising his own salary on the commission and attempting to change the city's Land Development Code to favor more residential density.
Minshew lost by 63 votes on her third try for a city commission seat having lost in 2020 and 2022. Her campaign centered on the city having a long-term plan with measured results, as well as limiting density in the city.
Commissioner James Antun easily defeated Commissioner Darron Ayscue as Fernandina's next mayor.
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