District 6 City Council candidates in St.Petersburg. Photo by Daria Mironova/WMNF.
On June 2, St. Petersburg District 6 candidates met with voters during a forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of the St. Petersburg Area.
Four candidates attended the event: Linsey Grove, Jameka Williams, Trevor Mallory, and Doug Homeyer. Terri Balliet was absent due to a family emergency. District 6 spans downtown and parts of South St. Petersburg.
Voters asked about affordable housing, utility costs, traffic safety, storm preparedness, redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District, and the possible impact of proposed property tax changes.
All candidates emphasized the importance of community engagement. Grove cited her work with community organizations; Williams noted her coalition-building; Mallory referenced his involvement in civic groups; Homeyer focused on uniting people to address challenges.
Candidates discussed rising energy costs and the possibility of a public utility. Grove and Williams supported studying the concept, saying it could cut costs and boost reliability. Mallory wanted detailed financial reviews before making a decision. Doug Homeyer called for more public discussion and research.
Public safety
Shifting focus, traffic safety was another major concern. Forum participants agreed on the need to improve pedestrian, cyclist, and driver safety and reduce street accidents. Suggested solutions included infrastructure renovations, increased enforcement, improved road design, and additional safety measures at busy intersections. Mallory also called for stricter e-bike regulation.
When the discussion turned to hurricane preparedness and storm resilience, each candidate emphasized a distinct priority. Williams focused on investment in stormwater systems and environmental protections such as mangroves and native trees. Grove agreed that the infrastructure needed improvement but argued that the city should first develop a comprehensive resiliency plan. Mallory made aiding residents still recovering from recent storms his main concern, while Homeyer focused on ensuring the financial impact of a proposed $600 million bond initiative was clearly understood.
Redevelopment concerns
Next, the future of the Historic Gas Plant District also generated significant discussion. While all candidates agreed that redevelopment must prioritize community benefits and address the history of residents displaced by prior development, they differed on approach. Some favored strong city ownership of the land to ensure public control and to facilitate affordable housing and community-driven projects, while others advocated greater collaboration with private developers.
Following redevelopment issues, candidates showed various positions on a proposed state measure that could reduce local property tax revenue. Some warned that major cuts could affect city services, including public safety, infrastructure, parks, libraries, and recreation programs, while Trevor Mallory emphasized the need to educate voters about the proposal before it appears on the ballot.
In their closing statements, candidates thanked residents for participating in the voting process and pledged to remain accessible and responsive if elected. They encouraged voters to stay aware and engaged as the election approaches.
The District 6 primary election will be held on Aug. 18.