Austin Arthur, candidate for Orange County Commissioner District 1, just received notice from the Orange County Supervisor of Elections that he has qualified by petition. It was also a demonstration of his strong grassroots support by securing nearly 1,800 signatures, exceeding the required 1,495. Incumbent Commissioner Nicole Wilson did not hand in any petitions.

“I could not be impressed by our team for reaching this important milestone or more grateful for the enthusiastic response of the voters of District 1,” stated Arthur.  “After learning we had the wrong due date and had only ten days to collect a thousand petitions, most said we couldn’t do it. I wasn’t willing to give up that easy,” stated Arthur.

 

This is not the only indication that District 1 is looking for new leadership on the County Commission. Arthur is showing a strong and growing support by his endorsements, fundraising, and well attended community events.  Arthur has earned the endorsements of multiple municipal mayors, as well as dozens of current and former elected officials and recognized community leaders. He has raised nearly $250,000 and hosted a campaign rally with nearly 500 residents in attendance.

 

“These successes are not about me. These successes are evidence that the voters of District 1 are looking for new leadership. They want common sense, infrastructure-first, community-driven leadership. That’s why I’m running. As District 1’s next commissioner, that’s what I plan to do - work on real issues that matter to everyday people, like roads, jobs, and a more affordable Orange County.”

Arthur is an entrepreneur, employer, community advocate, and a former firefighter/paramedic. He and his brother founded Gymnastics USA, Florida’s largest gymnastics center, and Stars and Stripes Marketing Services, both in West Orange County. Austin serves on multiple boards and charities, including West Orange Habitat for Humanity, Challenge 22 to End Veteran Suicide, West Orange Scholarship Foundation, Eight Waves Children and Family Services, and others. Austin and his wife live in Downtown Winter Garden and have three young children.