Nelson reports another solid fundraising month

Smith extends lead in Seat 1 with 32 individual donors

Orange County Commissioner Bryan Nelson raised $7,700.00 in May in his bid to become the next mayor of Apopka. This increases his total fundraising tally to $33,860.00 since he announced his campaign in March. Nelson spent $12,203.56 on his campaign effort, which means he has $21,656.44 on hand. In May, Nelson had 17 individuals and businesses give amounts ranging from $100-$1,000.

"We continue to get broad support from people who share my vision for a prosperous city," said Nelson. "We are thrilled by the momentum that our campaign has maintained."

Nelson raised $7,700 in May.

Apopka Mayor Joe Kilsheimer also announced his bid for re-election in March but has yet to begin a formal campaign effort. He currently has $100 in his campaign account, with no individual donations and no expenditures. According to Kilsheimer, his campaign will begin soon.

In the Seat #1 City Commission race Alexander Smith took a small lead over Gene Knight with a $1,535.15 haul, which included 32 individual and business donors giving Smith contributions ranging from $10-$200. Smith has spent $707.11 on his bid to succeed Commissioner Billie Dean for the seat, which leaves him with $1,980.31 on hand.

"May was another good month for campaign funds," said Smith. "It's still early and we are on track. Family and friends have been very supportive of my bid for council seat #1 by contributing to the campaign. I expect to see the same pace in June as those who know me continue to be the first contributors."

Alexander Smith raised $1,535.15 in May.

Knight raised $500 in May, which came from five donors giving him donations ranging from $50-$150. His account has a balance of $191.22.

"It's early in the election year," said Knight. "We are just getting started. I expect the fundraising numbers to continue to increase as we get closer and I get out in the community and people hear what I have to offer."

Dean has announced he will not run for re-election to Seat #1.

In the Seat #2 race, Commissioner Diane Velazquez announced her intention to run for re-election, but has not formally started her campaign, and has not raised any funds towards her bid for a second term. However, no one has announced a bid to run against her for the seat.