- April 16, 2024
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John Fischer defeated Raven Sword in the District 5 School Board race with 58% of the vote.
John Fischer woke up around 3:30 a.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 2. It was still dark outside with a brisk chill in the air as the then-candidate finished posted signs at all the polling locations. Nearly 18 hours later, Fischer was declared winner of the District 5 race, defeating opponent Raven Sword, 58% to 42%.
Fischer accumulated 16,684 votes this time around, after nearly closing the door in the Aug. 24 primary. Fischer was disappointed when he fell 6% short of the 50% needed to end the race back in August, but he’s grateful now. He said his key to success all along has been staying genuine.
“I thank God first of all,” Fischer said late Tuesday night. “I also thank my wife, who has been very supportive and the dedication she’s given me. I’m trying to do the best I can … and I’m a very fortunate person.” Fischer said being honest and “staying above the fray” helped him throughout the campaign. Fischer has also stayed true to his word that his best qualification that makes him best-suited for the job was being a genuine person.
“The only way I know how to be is to be genuine and whatever is to be … is to be,” Fischer said. Fischer’s background is with the Knights of Columbus, as well as making frequent public comments at School Board meetings; Fischer said he attended nearly 100 meetings over those five years. Added Fischer: “To the voters: Thank you so very much. … Hopefully, I can make everyone proud, and I need everyone’s help. I want to bring the community back together.”
.25-mill levy passes with 61%
The continuance of the .25-mill Flagler County School Board referendum passed with 61%, totaling 19,006 “yes” votes out of the 30,916 total votes.
The School Board has emphasized the importance of this referendum, stating that it was a continuation of a levy that taxpayers have already been paying since 2008. A set of town hall meetings were utilized to get the word out.
“I’m thrilled,” Superintendent Janet Valentine said Tuesday night. “I think this is one of the ways we’re going to make it next year. It shows we’ve been good stewards with our money.”
Since approved, the .25-mill levy will continue for an additional two years, and translates to $25 per $100,000 of assessed value per year.
Amendment 8 falls short by 6%
Needing 60% of supporting votes, Amendment 8 fell short in Florida, gaining only 54% statewide. Amendment 8, also known as the class-size amendment, would’ve provided Flagler County schools with flexibility, Valentine said.
“I’m pleased with the votes in Flagler County,” she said. “People seemed to understand that class size is an issue. ... I’m disappointed it didn’t pass.”
In Flagler County, Amendment 8 received 57% of the vote.
