Meet Jacob Kyser

Jacob Kyser is a Manatee County resident, Manatee High School graduate, local business owner, and experienced aviation professional. As an Airline Transport Pilot, he has built his career in an industry where safety, preparation, accountability, and sound judgment are essential.

Jacob is running for the Fire Rescue Commission because this community is his home, and he believes protecting it is one of local government's most important responsibilities.

The Fire Rescue District serves a unique and geographically challenging area. It stretches across Anna Maria Island—from the City of Anna Maria at the north end, through Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, to the Longboat Pass Bridge—and inland through Cortez, Tidy Island, Palma Sola, and portions of west and northwest Bradenton.

While growth within the district averages approximately 1% annually, the district does not exist in isolation. Unincorporated Manatee County and the City of Bradenton continue to grow around us, bringing more residents, development, traffic, and demand for emergency services throughout the region. Our district must also be prepared for seasonal population increases, tourism, coastal emergencies, severe weather, and the challenges created by limited access to our barrier islands.

After the district's funding referendum failed, Jacob believed residents deserved more than another attempt at the same approach. They deserved a serious and financially responsible Plan B—one that supports our firefighters, addresses the district's long-term staffing, equipment, and facility needs, and respects the taxpayers who fund it.

This race is important to Jacob because the decisions made by the commission today will determine whether the district is prepared five, ten, and twenty years from now. He is running to bring independent leadership, responsible financial planning, and greater accountability to the board while ensuring our professional firefighters have the resources and support they need to protect every part of our community.