Don Burns has ended his candidacy for the District B Northeast seat on the Lakeland City Commission.
The decision leaves Terry Coney, 73, currently unopposed for the seat being vacated two years early by Commissioner Bill “Tiger” Read.
After filing the paperwork to run in the Nov. 4 municipal election, Burns, 56, decided he should prioritize family. He officially withdrew on Aug. 19.
“My next two years is really important for the kids. Their last two years of college,” he said, adding that running for a position on the commission is still in his future plans.
Burns said he will remain involved in the community and learn more about local government. He intends to research local organizations, attend community events, and learn more about the commission and its procedures.
He will also continue his podcast, “I am Lakeland,” promoting businesses, specifically entrepreneurs, for free. “I continuously promote our beautiful community, Lakeland, on my own time,” Burns said.
Nov. 4 Election Details
There is still time for more to change before the November election. Lakeland’s qualifying week begins Sept. 15.
Five of the seven seats on the City Commission will be on the ballot:
- Mayor
- At-Large Seat 1
- District B Northeast (2-year term)
- District C Southwest
- District D Southeast
Eligible candidates must file all paperwork with the City Clerk’s Office by noon on Sept. 19.
As of Aug. 20, no one had filed to run for the At-Large 1 seat, currently held by Stephanie Madden.
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