Naples City Council Shakeup: Familiar Figures and New Voices Vie for Power in 2026

For the upcoming Feb. 3, 2026, City Council election, only one current Naples council member is seeking reelection, setting the stage for a dynamic contest that blends political familiarity with fresh energy.

As the qualifying deadline closed, eight candidates emerged, all vying for three open at-large seats on the seven-member council. That mix includes returning officeholders, familiar faces from past campaigns, and civic leaders making their first sprint into city governance.

Who’s Running? The Lineup to Know

The slate of candidates combines both seasoned civic participants and newcomers eager to shape Naples’ future:

• Dan Barone

• Ted (Edward) Blankenship

• Raymond R. Christman

• John J. Krol

• John A. Langley

• Sally Petersen

• Scott T. Schultz

• Penny Taylor

This group will compete for three four-year terms on the council — meaning that voters will help define Naples’ policy direction into the early 2030s.

With only one incumbent in the running, many candidates are emphasizing fresh perspectives while also leaning on past experience in civic leadership and community engagement.

Name Recognition and New Energy

Interestingly, a few familiar names already resonate in local circles, with prior campaigns or public service under their belts. An incumbent returning for another term suggests continuity in governance, while others are hoping their past city involvement will translate into voter confidence.

A couple of the contestants have served in various capacities previously, whether on city boards, advocacy groups, or as volunteers in civic forums, lending their campaigns a blend of resume depth and community ties.

Meanwhile, first-time candidates are injecting fresh issues and creativity into the debate, framing their bids around topics like sustainable growth, infrastructure resilience, and quality-of-life priorities for Naples’ residents.

Why This Race Matters More Than Ever

Although municipal elections in Naples have historically drawn modest turnout compared to national races, this cycle could buck that trend, given the open council field and the current issues on voters’ minds. From managing growth pressures to maintaining Naples’ unique coastal charm, the council decisions made in 2026 will shape the city’s future.

Particularly with public safety, city services, and development policy topping local issue lists, residents will watch closely how candidates articulate their visions ahead of early winter voting.

Ballots and Deadlines: What You Need to Know

• Election Date: Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026

• Who Votes: Registered City of Naples voters (make sure your registration is current)

• Vote-by-Mail Deadline: Requests due by Jan. 22, 2026

• In-Person Voting: No early in-person voting; head to your assigned precinct on Election Day.

  Candidates and voters alike will be watching local forums and meet-and-greets this January for deeper insight into each contender’s platform — and that’s where community engagement will really start to heat up.

Voter Toolkit: Stay In the Loop

• Attend debates and forums to hear directly from candidates.

• Check the official city election page for updates, candidate statements, and legal notices.

• Mark your calendar for early December through early January deadlines if you’re planning to vote by mail.