Two Open Seats Face Deciding Vote in North Port Commission Race

Two seats on the North Port City Commission are open for election in a nonpartisan general race. The contests for Districts 4 and 5 proceeded directly to the general ballot because only two candidates filed for each position, eliminating the need for a primary. The outcome of these races will determine the composition of the local governing body for the next term.

In District 4, Ludmila Dunchyk is competing against Elaine Allen-Emrich for an open seat. Allen-Emrich, a former reporter for the Daily Sun and longtime resident, stated she is running to be a “stable part of North Port for the taxpayers.” She is married to Pete Emrich, the current District 4 commissioner who is leaving office due to term limits. Allen-Emrich cited concerns about property tax reform and its potential impact on city services, specifically regarding water structures and flooding. She also expressed worry about rapid growth encouraged at the state level.

Dunchyk, who has lived in North Port for decades, said she is running because she loves the city but has concerns about its direction. She described many residents as feeling “disconnected” and “unheard.” Her stated goal is to serve residents and spend taxpayer dollars responsibly. Dunchyk supports property tax reform. She brings experience from the legal field and the Sarasota County Public School system to the race.

In District 5, incumbent Phil Stokes is seeking a second term against challenger Oleg Lisitsyn. Stokes, who moved from New Jersey to North Port about nine years ago, argued that he provides the “steady hand” the city needs. He highlighted his record as a “fiscal conservative” who worked to keep taxes flat. His stated priorities for the next term are keeping the city safe, bringing more jobs, and maintaining low taxes. Both Stokes and Lisitsyn reside in the Wellen Park neighborhood.

Lisitsyn, who has lived in the area for about two years, said he is running to better represent the younger demographic. Born in Russia and raised in Washington state, he raised concerns about the budget and development. He criticized the current commission for increasing taxes and forcing decisions on residents. Lisitsyn argued that “communication” and “representation” on the commission need improvement.

The city will hold the nonpartisan general election to select the next commissioners for these two districts. The results will finalize the membership of the North Port City Commission for the upcoming term.