St. Petersburg approves $96 tax per $100,000 to fast-track $2.7 billion in infrastructure
Voters also elected two new council members and approved four other measures, including a change to how the city manages parkland lots.
By Ayanda Boateng ·
St. Petersburg residents voted to impose a new property tax that will allow the city to complete a $2.7 billion list of water, sewer, and stormwater projects five years ahead of schedule. The measure, which passed with approximately 74% support, will add about $96 to the annual tax bill for every $100,000 of taxable property value.
The tax revenue will go toward repaying bonds used to accelerate these infrastructure upgrades. James Scott, the executive committee chairperson of the Suncoast Sierra Club, described the outcome as a choice for a faster and fairer investment in the city’s future.
Voters also approved four other measures on Tuesday’s ballot. Roughly 53% supported a proposal allowing the city to sell nine lots near the Jamestown Apartments and Townhomes. Although designated as parkland, these lots do not currently function as parks. The city can now use the proceeds from the sale to build affordable or workforce housing.
The remaining approved measures extended the lease for Harborage Marina in Bayboro Harbor, permitted longer lease terms at the Port of St. Petersburg, and clarified rules to ensure city elections occur in even-numbered years. All 86 precincts in St. Petersburg were counted by 8:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Two new members will join the City Council. Linsey Grove, a public health practitioner, secured the District 6 seat with 55% of the vote in a runoff. She defeated Trevor Mallory, the president of a housing nonprofit, who received about 45%. Grove’s district includes downtown and southeast neighborhoods extending to Coquina Key. Both candidates are Democrats, though the race was nonpartisan. They differed on whether to replace Duke Energy with a city-run utility; Grove preferred a voter referendum, while Mallory favored maintaining the status quo.
Grove succeeded Gina Driscoll, who is leaving office due to term limits. In a phone interview, Grove credited her victory to a grassroots effort and said she had not yet spoken with her opponent. "It’s a real testament to running a real grassroots campaign," Grove said. "I’m feeling very proud of myself and my volunteers."
Gabriel Hament, the Hillsborough County Assistant Public Defender, won the District 2 seat with approximately 53% of the vote. He defeated property manager Courtney Bermudez, who received about 47%. Hament’s district covers Riviera Bay, Gandy, and Barcley Estates in the northern part of the city. Hament succeeded Brandi Gabbard, who was also term-limited. "It’s an incredible honor," Hament said. "I look forward to making St. Petersburg proud."
