Palm Bay Election Results Certification and New Council Members Sworn In

Special Meeting Set for November 20 to Mark a Turning Point for the City

Palm Bay, FL — The City of Palm Bay has scheduled a special meeting for November 20, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 120 Malabar Road, Palm Bay, Florida. This meeting will certify the 2024 election results and administer the oath of office to the re-elected mayor and newly elected city council members.

Mayoral Election Overview

In the August 20, 2024, primary election, incumbent Mayor Rob Medina secured re-election with 55.33% of the vote, exceeding the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff. This decisive win signals strong community support for his leadership and vision for Palm Bay.

City Council Elections

The November 5, 2024, general election brought notable changes to the Palm Bay City Council, with a shift towards conservative representation. This shift suggests a community preference for policies that emphasize fiscal conservatism, limited government intervention, and a focus on traditional values. The following candidates were elected:

• Seat 2: Richard "Mike" Hammer defeated incumbent Councilman Donny Felix, receiving 52.99% of the vote.

• Seat 3: Chandler Langevin narrowly won with 50.58% of the vote, defeating Alfy Ramsay Agarie.

• Seat 5: Mike Jaffe emerged victorious in a competitive race, securing 44.24% of the vote against multiple candidates.

These results indicate a community preference for conservative policies and governance, marking a significant shift in the council's composition. Historically, the council has seen more moderate or progressive representation, making this change notable. The new members are expected to prioritize policies such as reducing city spending, limiting new regulations, and focusing on traditional community values.

Special Meeting Agenda

The special meeting on November 20 will feature two key activities:

• Certification of Election Results: Official acknowledgment and validation of the election outcomes by the relevant authorities.

• Oath of Office Ceremony: Formal swearing-in of Mayor Rob Medina and the newly elected council members, marking the start of their terms.

Seat 5 Vacancy and Seat 3 Appointment

Seat 5 became vacant following the resignation of Councilman Peter Filiberto in February 2023 after his arrest on multiple charges. The council appointed an interim member to fill the position temporarily, leading up to the special election held on November 5, 2024. In that election, Mike Jaffe secured the seat with 44.24% of the vote, emerging victorious among multiple candidates.

Seat 3 was vacated in June 2024 when Councilman Randy Foster resigned due to health reasons. The council appointed Philip Weinberg to serve as an interim member until the general election. In the November 5, 2024, election, Chandler Langevin won the seat with 50.58% of the vote, narrowly defeating Alfy Ramsay Agarie.

With the swearing-in of Mayor Rob Medina and the newly elected council members—Richard "Mike" Hammer (Seat 2), Chandler Langevin (Seat 3), and Mike Jaffe (Seat 5)—the council aims to restore stability and focus on addressing the city's challenges. This transition is expected to bring a renewed sense of direction and cohesion to Palm Bay's leadership.

Background on Elected Officials

• Mayor Rob Medina: A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and long-time resident of Palm Bay, Mayor Medina is recognized for his dedication to public safety and community development.

• Richard "Mike" Hammer (Seat 2): Known for his advocacy of fiscal responsibility and infrastructure improvements.

• Chandler Langevin (Seat 3): Focused on enhancing government efficiency and responsiveness to community needs.

• Mike Jaffe (Seat 5): Committed to addressing aging infrastructure and fostering economic growth.

Community Involvement

The special meeting will not only formalize the election results but also provide an opportunity for the community to witness the swearing-in of the individuals who will help shape Palm Bay’s future. Residents are encouraged to attend and show their support, as well as engage with their newly elected officials to learn more about their plans for the city. For more updates and in-depth coverage of local events, be sure to visit The Palm Bayer.