The Honorary Mayor’s Race of East Hillsborough County, hosted by the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce, begins on Sunday, September 1, but local residents who are interested in running for office must have their applications into the chamber by Saturday, June 1.
The Honorary Mayor’s Race recognizes caring citizens in the East Hillsborough community. Candidates utilize their time, talent and fundraising capabilities to raise money benefiting East Hillsborough-area 501(c)(3) charities. The honorary mayor of East Hillsborough represents the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce at East Hillsborough community area functions.
Danielle Stevens, owner of Vine Vegan in Brandon, is the current honorary mayor of East Hillsborough County. She is also the chairperson of the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce and is responsible for overseeing the new candidates in this race.
“I wanted to run for honorary mayor because I wanted to give back to the amazing local charities in our community and to gain exposer to my new business, Vine Vegan, in the community,” Stevens said.
The Honorary Mayor’s Race will end on Monday, September 30. The geographic area, East Hillsborough County, is defined as east of U.S. 301 and south of I-4.
Applications will be reviewed by the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors. Candidates must be at least 21 years of age and live, work or volunteer in East Hillsborough. They are required to uphold the appropriate conduct and demeanor benefiting the office they aspire to, both in their personal behavior and campaign activities.
Candidates not receiving the mayoral title may reapply to run for the honorary mayor of East Hillsborough position in subsequent years.
“My hope for the next honorary mayor is to see them bring an even greater awareness and innovation to this role,” Stevens said. “I really believe in the power of this position to mobilize and inspire our community, not just in raising money but also in strengthening the bonds among residents and local businesses. It’s really been a privilege to use this platform to give back and to bring more awareness to local initiatives. I’m excited to see how the next honorary mayor can take it even further.”
If you would like to learn more about the Honorary Mayor’s Race of East Hillsborough County or are interested in running for this position, you can visit the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce website at www.valricofishhawk.org.
