Seminole Council Race: Incumbents Face New Challenger for Two Seats

Three candidates are competing for two open seats on the Seminole City Council. The race pits incumbent Ray Beliveau and incumbent Kadi Hendricks Tubbs against political newcomer Mike Lurie. All three candidates answered a series of questions regarding their backgrounds, priorities, and views on local governance.

Beliveau has lived in Seminole for 38 years. He is a Navy veteran and former manufacturing engineer. Since retiring, he has served as a founding member of the Seminole Fire Rescue Community Emergency Response Team. He currently holds the title of Past President for that group. He also serves as the 1st Vice President for the Suncoast League of Cities.

Lurie has resided in Seminole for 47 years. He graduated from Florida State University in 2001 with a degree in computer and information science. He founded Oakhurst Technology and Computer Services, which he sold in 2016. He now manages commercial real estate rentals. He served as president of the Rotary Club of Seminole during the 2024 hurricane season.

Tubbs has called Seminole home since 1978. She is a local business owner and real estate broker. She previously worked as a television news reporter and anchor. She currently serves as president of Operation: Military Matters, a nonprofit that has sent more than 14,000 care packages to service members.

The candidates identified different immediate challenges for the city. Beliveau cited the aging and undersized stormwater system. He said the city must balance funding through fees and grants while prioritizing repairs. Lurie pointed to Amendment 3 as the primary threat to the budget. He argued that the city already has one of the lowest millage rates in Pinellas County. Tubbs emphasized the need to balance infrastructure and public safety needs with manageable costs for residents.

Regarding the next three years, Beliveau listed the replacement of the aging recreation center, the construction of a new fire station in Bay Pines, and the modernization of the Repetto property. Lurie focused on disaster preparedness, budget balancing in the face of state mandates, and protecting local rule from Tallahassee. Tubbs prioritized public safety, stormwater improvements, and responsible management of community investments.

On the potential passage of Amendment 3, Beliveau proposed a shift to non-ad valorem taxes and fees for services like fire, parks, and waste collection. He suggested cuts to library hours and park availability. Lurie stated the city should reduce nonessential services and add non-ad valorem assessments if a shortfall remains. Tubbs said the city must examine spending carefully and seek grants to offset the loss of revenue.