Candidates spending down their campaign war chests

It's the final week of the municipal elections in Apopka, and the candidates are closing strong with spending sprees befitting of the finish line fast approaching.

During the period of February 5th-18th, Apopka Mayor Bryan Nelson extended his fundraising lead over challenger Commissioner Kyle Becker with $6,525 in campaign contributions, compared to Becker at $6,150.

That total came from 14 donors ranging from $50-$1,000. Individuals made up 13 of the donations, while one was from a political action committee. The donations came from seven individuals with Apopka addresses, while seven were from out-of-town addresses. It gives Nelson a total of $85,560 in contributions and a significant lead over Becker. He has spent $53,172.46 on his campaign efforts, which leaves $32,387.54 in his campaign account for the final push. Nelson spent $9,783.73 during this past period.

Becker raised $6,150 in the 15-day cycle from 15 donors ranging from $50-$1,000. 13 contributors were individuals, while two were listed as businesses. Of the 15 contributions, 10 had an Apopka address, while five had out-of-town addresses. Becker has raised $33,880 in total and reported $21,147 in election expenses, which leaves him with $12,733 in his campaign account. He spent $6,588.22 during this period.

In the Seat #2 City Commission election, incumbent Commissioner Diane Velazquez kept her fundraising lead over opponent Wes Dumey.

Velazquez collected $343.73 during the period. Velazquez has received $9,093.70 in total and has spent $6,682.27, leaving her $2,411.43 in her campaign account. Velazquez spent $2,354.40 during the period.

Dumey received donations of $400 and loaned his campaign $1,500 which brings his total campaign fundraising total up to $5,091.06 in total. Dumey has spent $4,650.02 on his campaign and has $441.04 on hand.

In the Seat #4 election, Nick Nesta took a big lead over his opponent Eric Mock in the past reporting period.

Nesta raised $1,800 in the period, which gives him a total of $9,295. Nesta spent $9005.82 on his campaign and has $289.18 in his campaign account.

Mock received $100 during the period and $3,107 in total. Mock has spent $1,813.51 on his campaign and has $1,293.49 left in his campaign account.

Early Voting starts today; Election Day is Tuesday, March 8th from 7 am to 7 pm.

Early voting starts on Monday, February 28th through Friday, March 4th from 8 am to 5 pm at the Orange County Supervisor of Elections Office, 119 W. Kaley Street in Orlando, and on March 1st-6th from 7 am- 7 pm at the VFW/Apopka Community Center.