Manatee County · 2026
Public safety, real investment, and a stronger urban core — leadership rooted in the neighborhoods that make Manatee County home.
“District 2 is the heart of Manatee County.”
From shelters and veteran housing to farms, parks, and tax relief — a record built on listening and getting things done.
Amanda believes in preserving Manatee County's agricultural heritage while inspiring a new generation of farmers. She spearheaded the purchase of historic Mixon Fruit Farms, saving the site from development, with plans for an event venue, farmer's market, teaching kitchen, historic citrus groves, and 20 acres for urban 4-H and FFA students. She also created a highly successful Community Gardens program.
Amanda has led efforts to reduce homelessness in our cities and urban core — a major public safety and quality-of-life concern for District 2. She led the project to provide a women's shelter, opened last year. A second shelter run by our Sheriff will open soon, and the Salvation Army will begin serving families exclusively. These projects are funded through opioid litigation funds — not your tax dollars.
As the sister of a career Air Force sergeant, Amanda is committed to supporting the nearly 10% of Manatee County residents who served. She supported the Tunnel to Towers project, which will provide 122 permanent homes to homeless, disabled, and disadvantaged veterans, and the Valor Commons initiative — services, camaraderie, and a memorial park on one campus.
Amanda has overseen unprecedented reinvestment in District 2, including John Marble Park, the Bradenton Area Convention Center, Washington Park and Community Center, Community Gardens at Elwood Park, Mixon Farms, lighting in Samoset, Oneco, and Washington Park, the 44th Ave. E. extension, stormwater work, sidewalks, and beautification — with strong partnerships with the mayors of Bradenton and Palmetto.
Wife and mother of three, and a former child welfare attorney for the Florida Department of Children and Families. Eight years representing the State shaped how she leads — face to face with the toughest problems in our community.
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