, Fla. — Early voting for the 2026 Primary Election begins Saturday, Aug. 8, at the New Smyrna Beach Regional Library located at 1001 S. Dixie Frwy. Residents can cast their ballots daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Saturday, Aug. 15.
Only the seat for the Zone two commissioner, representing beachside and Bouchelle Island residents, will appear on the primary ballot.
The primary ballot features three candidates for the Zone 2 seat: Jennifer Devine, Lou Pate, and Cynthia Sniezak. While candidates are required to live within the specific zone they wish to represent, the city elects commissioners at large. This allows every registered voter within the New Smyrna Beach city limits to cast a vote for every seat on the ballot, regardless of their residential zone.
The results of the primary will determine which two Zone Two candidates move forward to the general election. The general election ballot will also feature the race for mayor. Incumbent Mayor Fred Cleveland is seeking a third term in office and is challenged by Lisa Martin, who currently serves as the Zone Two commissioner.
In the Zone One race, Carl Curtis Hodges ran unopposed for the commissioner seat. Hodges will be seated alongside the winners of the other races following the conclusion of the election cycle.
The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3. Winning candidates will be sworn into office on Nov. 10.
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