Oakland election includes Town Commission race, charter amendments

Oakland residents will decide their next Seat 4 Town Commissioner in Tuesday’s election.

Commissioner Joseph McMullen, who has led since 2006, is up for re-election against challenger Anne Fulton.

Oakland, a town of around 2,000 people in Orange County, is known for its nature, with views of Lake Apopka. It’s also a popular stop for cyclists on The West Orange Trail.

McMullen’s background is in pharmacy. He works as a Senior Clinical Account Manager.

He served in the Air Force Reserves from 1989-1995. McMullen was also recently appointed as the Florida League of Cities Vice Chair of Land Use & Economic Development, according to his bio on the town website.

Meanwhile, his opponent is an office manager at an independent insurance adjusting firm, according to West Orange Times. Fulton listed one of her top priorities as affordability and the housing crisis, the outlet reported. 

“I’m running because I believe Oakland deserves a Commissioner who listens, unites and serves,” Fulton told the Times.

McMullen’s campaign website listed his priorities as smart growth, preserving green spaces, supporting public safety and protecting the environment.

“Joseph McMullen has been dedicated to serving the Oakland community with integrity, transparency, and a forward-thinking vision,” his campaign website said.

In addition to the race for Seat 4, Oakland voters will also be deciding on several charter amendments.

Ballot question No. 3 would get rid of runoff elections in races where a Mayor or Town Commission candidate fails to clear 50% of the vote.

“The intent of this proposed amendment is to simplify the election process and save the Town considerable time and expense related to run-off elections,” the town said.

Ballot question No. 4 would eliminate the option for candidates to qualify for the ballot by collecting signature cards. Currently, a candidate must collect signatures from 10% of the town’s registered voters or 100 voters, whichever is less. If No. 4 passes Tuesday, candidates going forward would have to qualify by giving a written notice of candidacy and paying a $100 qualifying fee.

“The intent of this proposed amendment is to create a more uniform qualification period,” the town said. “Residents who can demonstrate financial hardship may qualify without being required to pay the qualification fee.”

Election Day polls are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.