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PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. \u2014<\/p>\nPort St. Lucie voters weigh priorities as mayoral race unfolds<\/p>\n
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. \u2014<\/p>\n
Voters in Port St. Lucie are casting their ballots on Tuesday in a mayoral race that has highlighted key community concerns and a recent campaign sign controversy involving police officers. <\/p>\n
As residents head to the polls, many are sharing their priorities for the city\u2019s next mayor. One voter said, \u201cSafety.\u201d <\/p>\n
While opinions differ, a majority of voters expressed a desire for a mayor who is honest and committed to addressing issues that matter to residents. Another voter voiced concerns about development, saying, \u201cIt was so beautiful. I’ve been here 20 years, and a lot of it has gone to development.\u201d <\/p>\n
For others, the focus is on the type of leadership they want to see at city hall. One voter said, \u201cI would like them to be somebody that has lived here, worked here, knows what it’s like to be a working person, has kids, wants to keep them, you know, keep them here, raise them here so they have a good future.\u201d <\/p>\n
The race follows a campaign sign controversy that resulted in three Port St. Lucie police officers being placed on leave. Police say the investigation involves two incidents earlier this month. <\/p>\n
Surveillance video shows a woman removing one of Mayor Shannon Martin\u2019s campaign signs, with her opponent, Steven Giordano, seen at the scene. In another incident, Giordano reported witnessing someone vandalizing his campaign sign. <\/p>\n
The officers placed on leave are Lt. Jason Vega, Detective Joseph Alves, and Lt. Aaron Martin, who is the mayor\u2019s husband. <\/p>\n
Polling places in Port St. Lucie are open until 7 p.m. Tuesday.<\/p>\n
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