Sarasota Voters to Elect Commissioners on November 3
Residents will choose two representatives for the at-large Sarasota City Commission seats in the general election.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in City Hall
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Three candidates, including John Harshman, Jen Ahearn-Koch, and Florence Entler, will face off in the Sarasota general election on November 3. Voters will decide which two of these finalists will fill the remaining at-large commission seats.
Why it matters
The outcome of this election will determine the leadership direction for Sarasota city governance over the coming term. The selected commissioners will oversee municipal policy and decision-making for the residents of the city.
The general election is scheduled for November 3, following the August 18 primary that narrowed the field to the current candidates. The election will determine who occupies the two open at-large commission seats.
The players
John Harshman
He is a retired commercial real estate broker who has served as the chair of both the Public Facilities Finance Advisory Board and the Community Redevelopment Advisory Board.
Jen Ahearn-Koch
She is a candidate contesting one of the at-large commission seats in the Sarasota general election.
Florence Entler
She is a candidate contesting one of the at-large commission seats in the Sarasota general election.
The details
Candidates John Harshman, Jen Ahearn-Koch, and Florence Entler successfully advanced through the August 18 primary to reach the ballot. John Harshman, a retired commercial real estate broker, brings experience from his time chairing local advisory boards.
Timeline
1989: John Harshman founded Harshman & Company, Inc.
2002-2009: Harshman chaired the Public Facilities Finance Advisory Board.
2012-2013: Harshman chaired the Community Redevelopment Advisory Board.
August 18: The primary election narrowed the field to three candidates.
November 3: The general election for two commission seats occurs.
Political Context
Opponents and local advocacy groups often raise concerns regarding the impact of real estate professional involvement in municipal decision-making. These critics argue that commissioners with backgrounds in property development may prioritize growth over the existing character of the city.
This election directly impacts Sarasota residents by determining the officials who vote on local tax rates, city services, and infrastructure project funding. Voters should be prepared to head to the polls to finalize their representation on the commission.
The takeaway
Voters are encouraged to research the candidate platforms before heading to the polls on November 3 to ensure their priorities are represented. Understanding the background and policy proposals of each candidate is a critical step for informed participation in local democracy.
What happens next
The general election for two commission seats will take place on November 3.
Further reading
For more information on local government, visit City Hall.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Patch.
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