CLAY COUNTY – Two high-profile council seats will be determined in the Municipal Super Tuesday election on April 14, ending what, at times, has been a contentious campaign season in Green Cove Springs and Orange Park. 

Tom Centracchio has challenged incumbent Ed Gaw for Seat 1 in Green Cove Springs, while Chuck Lindholm hopes to unseat Doug Benefield for Seat 1 in Orange Park. 

The primary issue for all four candidates has been managing finances and growth. 

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Registered voters who live within the city limits of Green Cove Springs can cast their ballot at City Hall, 321 Walnut St., while voting will be at Town Hall, 2042 Park Ave., in Orange Park. Everyone is reminded to bring a photo of themselves and an ID with a signature. 

In Green Cove Springs, Centracchio said he wants to be a “steward” of the taxpayers’ dollars. 

“I believe the most important role of a council member is to be a careful steward of taxpayer dollars and to make decisions that reflect the needs of the people who live here,” he said. 

Gaw said his experience as a small business owner affords him the opportunity to balance the challenges of addressing infrastructure projects and the budget. 

“I have spent more than 35 years as a small local business owner, creating jobs, meeting payroll and making decisions where results matter,” he said. “I bring that same practical experience and financial discipline to every budget discussion and policy decision before the City Council."

Voters in Green Cove Springs also will decide on three Charter Amendments: whether the City Council can allow a Notary Public to administer the Oath of Office to a City Council member if a judicial officer isn’t available; whether the City Council can waive the requirements that the City Manager’s dwelling be within the City’s utility service area; and whether the City Council can waive the requirement for the City Attorney to live or have an office within the city limits. 

In Orange Park, Lindholm said he wants to tackle the Town’s increased spending. 

“The reason [I’m] running was because the town’s budget has exploded in the last four years. It’s gone up [by] over 130%,” he said. “The spending has gotten ahead of the town’s ability to bring in revenue. And yet, the town continues to manage its budget. So, how do they close that gap?” 

Benefield said his focus is on ensuring Orange Park remains an attractive beacon in the county. 

“I’m fully invested in this place and the success of it. Like the sustainability of it,” he said. “Everything that I’ve put in motion relies on Orange Park needs to be a nice place. And it needs to be taken care of. It’s worth taking care of.” 

Clay Today will post the results at claytodayonline.com as soon as the Supervisor of Elections office counts the votes.