Phillips also honors the late Susie Coffman’s endorsement and pledges a public State of the City address at the senior center bearing her name.
WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. — Former Winter Springs Commissioners Rick Brown, Jean Hovey, Geoff Kendrick, Kenneth Greenberg and Mayor Charles Lacey have endorsed Jesse Phillips for mayor, joining a growing coalition of local leaders supporting his commitment to affordability, infrastructure and accountable government.
Phillips also expressed gratitude for the endorsement of the late Susie Coffman, whose legacy is honored by the Winter Springs senior center named after her. Before her passing, Coffman endorsed both his candidacy and his proposal to establish an early voting site at the adjacent civic center.
At the recent mayoral debate, Phillips announced plans to deliver his annual State of the City address at the Susie Coffman Senior Center in a town hall format, with residents invited to attend, hear directly from their mayor and ask questions.
“Susie believed in this community, and I’m grateful that she supported our campaign and our effort to bring early voting closer to home,” Phillips said. “Holding the State of the City address at the senior center bearing her name would honor that legacy while putting residents at the center of their government.”
Phillips said his approach would bring the address home to Winter Springs, contrasting it with the incumbent’s participation in a ticketed event in Lake Mary.
“The State of the City belongs to the people of Winter Springs,” Phillips said. “Residents should be able to attend here in our city, without buying a ticket, and ask their mayor questions. I will report on our progress, explain the challenges we still face and answer to the people I serve.”
The former commissioners cited Phillips’ longstanding community involvement and readiness to address the city’s challenges.
“As a former commissioner and a local business owner, I know how important strong leadership is for a city’s future,” said Rick Brown. “Jesse Phillips has shown a real commitment to Winter Springs and a willingness to tackle the tough issues facing our community. I believe he has the vision and leadership to move our city forward.”
“Winter Springs has always been strongest when leaders work together and keep the community first,” said Jean Hovey. “Jesse Phillips has shown a deep commitment to this city and the people who live here. I support Jesse as our next Mayor.”
“Winter Springs needs experienced, engaged leadership that understands both the challenges facing the city and the importance of community involvement,” said Geoff Kendrick. “Jesse Phillips has been part of the conversation for years and is prepared to lead. I encourage all of my neighbors to make Jesse Phillips our next Mayor.”
Phillips has also received endorsements from Lake Mary Commissioner Justin York and Longwood Commissioners Matt Morgan and Tony Boni, who highlighted his commitment to regional cooperation, sound finances, transparency and practical solutions.
“These leaders know what it takes to serve a city,” Phillips said. “I’m honored by their confidence and ready to work with our residents, commission and neighboring communities to make Winter Springs more affordable, accountable and responsive.”