Scott Newton was elected Wilton Manors mayor in a hard-fought three-way race in 2020.

The lone straight man on an all-gay male commission, Newton faces challenger Boyd Corbin in November’s general election. Mayors serve two-year terms. Visit this page for coverage from the 2022 election cycle.

Why have you decided to run for re-election?

The decision to run for mayor is to continue the work our commission and I, along with the city manager, have done to move our city into the future. To have financial stability. To update our current parks and to complete our infrastructure.

What are your qualifications?

I have served on this commission off and on for 22 years as mayor and commissioner. My experience and knowledge of our city. My involvement with the city for over 40 years makes me the most qualified person.

List your top issues of concern.

Growth, infrastructure and enhancing our current parks are key to a strong future.

How long have you lived in the city?

I have lived in Wilton Manors since 1959.

Please provide your chief criticism (if any) of the WiltonNext study.

Some of what is in WiltonNext is not what our residents are looking for in our corridors, like using “Wellness for Andrews Ave.” There is interest from developers to bring in different projects that could include workforce housing.

Are you married, kids, partner, etc.?

Married 41 years with three adult children and three grandchildren.

What is your age, profession, job, etc.?

I am 65 and owner of Quality Interiors for 39 years and current Wilton Manors mayor.

Does the city have a lack of affordable housing and if so what can be done about it?

We lack workforce housing here and across the county. Work with developers to bring more workforce housing into our city.

Do you favor legalizing all forms of cannabis for recreational and medical use?

For medical use yes, for recreation use in some forms to be discussed.

What are some of your biggest accomplishments?

City's financial stability, park expansion, and stronger communication between city staff and residents.

Is there a city department that is underperforming and why?

We have had big challenges in the last few years with COVID that hurt some departments, but we are getting back to fully staffed and back on track.

Are city employee wages fair and livable?

All employees are getting raises this year. A recent study shows they are underpaid.

Are you in favor of annexing Lazy Lake? Why or why not?

Yes, there are some issues that need to be worked out for this to happen though.

What businesses does the city need and why?

That is for our community to decide together with the city commission. Love to see diverse businesses come to our city.

Are you in favor of merging WMPD with BSO?

There is no reason to consider. Most residents I talk to love our police department, AS DO I.

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