MARCO AND COLLIER COME OUT TO VOTE

There were no surprises on election night as the votes were tallied for local offices throughout Collier County.  Ballots were counted with results released through the Supervisor of Elections Office.  

On Marco Island, three novice candidates won seats along with the incumbent: 

• Newcomer Becky Irwin with 7,552 votes.
• Incumbent Jared Grifoni with 7,415 votes.
• Newcomer Joseph Rola with 6,841 votes.
• Newcomer Richard Blonna with 6,731 votes.

A fifth candidate, Phares Heindl, was outpaced by the other candidates and only received 4,112.

DISTRICT 1 COMMISSIONER SEAT RACE

Another important contest that locals were closely watching was in the District 1 Collier County Commissioner’s race. Earlier this year Donna Fiala announced her retirement.  That announcement set off a heated primary contest on the Republican side which saw Marco Island resident Rick LoCastro persevere over a crowded field and handily defeated Democratic candidate John Jenkins.

• Rick LoCastro (R) with 30,602 votes.
• John Jenkins (D) with 13,963 votes.

COLLIER COUNTY TURNS OUT THE VOTE

Collier County voters can be proud of their turnout which was just over 90% of those eligible to vote casting their ballots on November 3.