Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter skips council meeting day after losing in primary election

Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter did not attend Tuesday night’s city council meeting, just one day after losing his seat in the primary election. Gunter’s chair was empty as the council convened for the first meeting after the election, where voters decided he would not keep his seat. Gunter, who has faced criticism since taking office in 2021, will not advance to the general election. This November, residents will choose between Lisa Cohen Adkinson and Rick Erickson as their next mayor. Gunter has faced backlash during his tenure for issues including the utilities extension project, renovations to Jaycee Park, and a monthly stipend for the city council that nearly doubled their pay. Campaign signs still litter the sidewalks in Cape Coral, but one sign that will come down and not return is Gunter’s. Residents expressed their reactions to his loss. “My reaction to the vote was pleased. Very pleased,” said John Hill, a Cape Coral voter. Voters said they lost confidence in Gunter, who failed to secure even 15% of the vote. “I don’t know all the reasons they got rid of him, but they might have considered something that wasn’t right, and that’s why he got booted out,” said Lewis Urgell, another Cape Coral voter. Many residents are calling for better jobs in the city. “I’d really like to see them develop something that brings white-collar jobs to the Cape,” Hill said. Lisa Cohen Adkinson, who came in second place with 24% of the vote, was the first to discuss her plans for November. “Absolutely. The number one thing I want. That’s the big question—are we going to be able to live here in the next five years?” Adkinson said. She also expressed frustration with the city’s current direction. “I’m tired of seeing this continuation of growing the government, growing the budget constantly,” Adkinson said. Rick Erickson, who received the most votes at 32%, also shared his perspective after the results were announced. “That’s what my job is. I’m not happy with the way things are going right now. So that’s why I’m up running it,” Erickson said. Adkinson criticized candidates who are not engaging with the community. “If you’re not going to make yourself available for the community, maybe you’re not the right person for the job,” she said. Voters emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency as the November 3 election approaches. “They should be accountable to the voters. That’s why we vote!” Urgell said. “We want to know what we’re voting for, for sure,” said Erica Glossenger, another Cape Coral resident. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment, and original programming on your TV.