Introduction
Ted Sarandis is running for Port of Palm Beach Commissioner, Group 2, with a bold promise to bring transparency, accountability, and much-needed reform. His platform, outlined on VoteTed.net, offers a fresh approach to managing the Port’s resources, ensuring the residents of Palm Beach County are prioritized over special interests.
Key Issues in Ted Sarandis’ Campaign
- Public Forensic Audit: Sarandis advocates for a full forensic audit of the Port of Palm Beach, a government entity that has lacked transparency for decades. By conducting this audit, he aims to reveal any financial mismanagement and ensure responsible use of public funds. According to Sarandis, no one can recall a previous public forensic audit of the Port, which makes this a crucial step toward fiscal accountability.
- No New Taxes for Residents: One of Sarandis’ core pledges is to protect Palm Beach County residents from new taxes levied by the Port. While the Port has not imposed taxes on residents for over 50 years, Sarandis promises to continue this trend, ensuring that any operational or expansion costs are not passed on to the public.
- Cruise Line Discounts: Sarandis plans to introduce a 20% discount on all cruises for Palm Beach County residents. This initiative not only benefits local citizens but also promotes tourism and strengthens the local economy. Currently, the Port only hosts one cruise line, but Sarandis aims to attract more, increasing options for residents and visitors alike.
- Election Day Accessibility: Sarandis is dedicated to ensuring that residents of Riviera Beach and other communities near the Port are not cut off from polling places on important election days. His plan includes prohibiting train operations through the city on election days and other community events, removing an obstacle that has hindered voter turnout in the past.
- 8-Year Term Limits: To combat the long-standing incumbency of current Port Commissioners, Sarandis is advocating for an 8-year term limit for all Port Commissioners. Some current Commissioners have held their positions for more than 20 or even 40 years, and Sarandis believes that fresh leadership is needed to bring new ideas and accountability.
Why Ted Sarandis Stands Out
Ted Sarandis is not your typical politician. His background includes property management, media experience, and a strong commitment to veterans and military personnel. Sarandis is a populist who brings a common-sense approach to public service. Unlike the career politicians currently serving at the Port, Sarandis pledges to put the interests of residents first, working to make the Port of Palm Beach more efficient, transparent, and beneficial for the community.
A Plan for the Future
Sarandis’ vision for the Port of Palm Beach extends beyond immediate reforms. He is committed to fostering a more prosperous and engaged community by:
- Launching outreach programs to attract more cruise lines, including discount and luxury options.
- Ensuring that any vacancies in the Port Commission are filled through a special election rather than backroom appointments, promoting transparency in leadership selection.
- Refusing campaign contributions from any business associated with the Port, ensuring his decisions are not influenced by financial interests.
Conclusion
Ted Sarandis is offering Palm Beach County a chance for meaningful change at the Port of Palm Beach. His platform centers on transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility, with innovative ideas like cruise discounts and term limits to benefit residents. For those looking for a candidate who is committed to reform and putting the community first, Sarandis is the right choice for Port Commissioner.
To learn more about his campaign and how you can support Ted Sarandis, visit VoteTed.net. Together, let’s ensure a brighter, more transparent future for the Port of Palm Beach.
