Re-Elect Andy Bilardello for Sumter County Commissioner

05/20/2026

Over the past several months, our BOCC has been carefully evaluating two different approaches for calculating our fire assessment methodology for areas outside of The Villages©: the “Hazardous Availability” model and the “Demand Availability” model. Both approaches are legally accepted in Florida, and every Commissioner approached this decision with the same goal, ensuring our fire and emergency services remain properly funded while being as fair to the taxpayers as possible.
The key difference between the two models comes down to how costs are distributed. The Demand Availability Methodology provided (in my opinion) the most balanced, equitable, and economically responsible approach to funding fire and emergency services in Sumter County. It ensured that all properties contributed fairly to emergency readiness while avoiding disproportionate financial burdens on businesses and homeowners with higher property values.
Under the more aggressive hazard-based model, larger homes or larger facilities, can have dramatic fee increases regardless of actual emergency demand. The Demand-Availability approach avoids creating those disincentives. The Hazardous Availability model places greater emphasis on the potential fire risk or hazard associated with a property type. Under that approach, assessments are more heavily influenced by factors such as square footage, structure type, and assumed fire risk. The Demand Availability model, which I supported, focused more on the actual demand that properties place on fire and EMS services based on historical call data and service usage patterns. In other words, one model is more focused on “potential risk,” while the other is more focused on “actual service demand.”
Why does that matter to taxpayers? Under a Hazardous Availability model, which was favored by the other members of the BOCC, many homeowners, particularly owners of larger or higher-value homes, will end up paying significantly more; even if their properties generate relatively low demand for emergency services. At the same time, some properties that generate higher service demand may not see their assessments increase proportionally. I believe the Demand model created a more balanced distribution by better aligning assessments with how emergency services are actually utilized across residential, commercial, and other property types. I also believe that it provided businesses with a more predictable and data-driven assessment structure tied to measurable demand rather than broader hazard assumptions.
Although I was on the losing side of the vote, I fully respect the decision reached by the Board and the thoughtful discussion that led to it. County Administrator Bradley Arnold and Sumter County Fire Chief Rob Hanson did an outstanding job presenting and explaining the two methodologies and their differences. These are complex issues with no perfect solution, and reasonable people can disagree on the best path forward. My position was about advocating for what I believed was the fairest and most transparent approach for residents, businesses, and taxpayers alike. I will continue working to ensure our community receives excellent emergency services while also protecting taxpayers through responsible and equitable policy decisions.

04/30/2026

Our good friend, Samantha Scott has cast her vote! Yea on FL redistricting. We’re so happy that she will be our voice in Tallahassee.

04/30/2026

Since Congressman Dan Webster announced that he will not seek another term, Andy has received numerous calls and messages from friends and local residents encouraging him to consider a run for that seat. He is truly grateful for that level of confidence and support.

After giving it careful thought, he has concluded that he is not in a position to mount a competitive campaign at this time. Running for Congress, or any federal office, requires an extraordinary level of financial resources. Andy was recently advised by a sitting member of Congress that without raising at least $300,000 to $400,000 just to launch a campaign, it would be extremely difficult to compete.

The reality is that our current system presents significant challenges for candidates who are not backed by established political networks. Fundraising at the federal level often depends heavily on large donors, PACs, and national support structures. For example, it has been reported that a candidate in this race, who is a career politician, raised over $100,000 in a single day in order to run for the D-11 seat being vacated by Mr. Webster. An impressive feat, if accurate, but one that underscores the scale required to be viable.

Andy has never considered himself a politician. He sees himself as a public servant. His adult life has been dedicated to serving our country as a military veteran and continuing that service in his community through law enforcement. While he would love and welcome the opportunity to serve our district at the federal level, Andy believes it’s important to be realistic about what it takes to run a successful campaign.

For now, his focus remains on serving the residents of Sumter County. If he is fortunate enough to earn your vote again in August, he will continue to work hard every day to represent and advocate for the community that he is proud to call home.

Andy thanks you for your encouragement, your trust, and your continued support.

04/22/2026

Citrus County and Hernando County have now joined Sumter County in formally opposing the Heart of Florida Landfill’s proposal to dispose of leachate through a deep injection well and that’s exactly the kind of regional unity this issue demands.
From the very beginning, Andy has been a vocal opponent of this disposal method. Pumping contaminated leachate deep underground raises serious long-term environmental concerns, particularly when it comes to protecting our groundwater and preserving the natural resources that our communities depend on.
Understanding the broader impact this could have beyond county lines, Andy directed County Administrator, Bradley Arnold, to begin coordinating with his counterparts in neighboring counties. The goal was simple: ensure that our concerns were heard loudly and collectively. Not just as one county, but as a united region.
Today, we’re seeing the results of that effort. Citrus and Hernando Counties stepping forward in opposition sends a strong message that this is not an isolated concern, it’s a regional priority.
Protecting our water, our environment, and our future requires collaboration. Andy is proud to see our neighboring counties standing with us.
This is how local government should work. Proactive, cooperative, and focused on doing what’s right for the people we serve.

Hernando County Commissioners are unanimously opposed to Heart of Florida Landfill’s proposal to use deep well injection (class I injection wells) to dispose of landfill leachate, the water that collects […]

04/21/2026

Recent commentary regarding the Board of County Commissioners’ role in the golf cart versus vehicle issue along Morse Boulevard has created some confusion that deserves clarification.

The BOCC is responsible for the roadway itself, while the adjacent golf cart paths fall under a separate entity’s jurisdiction. This distinction is critical, as it defines both authority and responsibility for potential improvements.

Crash data along this corridor consistently shows that the overwhelming majority of incidents occur when golf cart operators turn into the path of oncoming vehicles. While no single factor explains every crash, this pattern points to challenges related to cart path design, traffic flow, and user behavior rather than a deficiency in the County maintained roadway.

To its credit, the BOCC has not ignored these concerns. The County has brought forward multiple practical options intended to improve safety and reduce conflict points along Morse Boulevard. These proposals were offered in good faith and with public safety in mind. However, they have not moved forward, largely because implementation would require financial participation from the entity responsible for the golf cart infrastructure.

Public safety is a shared priority, but it also requires clear accountability. The County has acted within its authority and has made a genuine effort to be part of the solution. Meaningful progress will depend on all responsible parties stepping forward to invest in and implement the improvements necessary to enhance safety for everyone who uses this corridor.

04/17/2026

It is done! Andy has officially surpassed the number of petition cards needed to qualify for the ballot! Thanks to the help of many wonderful people in Sumter County, Andy surpassed the needed number of 1259 today. His name will now appear on the ballot for County Commissioner District 2. Thank you to everyone who helped! 👏

04/14/2026

Andy received this today from the Sumter County Supervisor of Elections Office:

Good afternoon, Mr. Bilardello

On April 7, 2026 we received 150 petitions and of those petitions 141 were valid and 9 were Invalid.

On April 9, 2026 we received 100 petitions and of those petitions 92 were valid and 8 were Invalid.

TOTAL NUMBER OF SIGNATURES REQUIRED 1,259

TOTAL NUMBER CERTIFIED VALID 1,043

TOTAL NUMBER STILL NEEDED 216

Please let us know if have any questions.

Andy has collected another 140 petition cards since last week. Which means he only needs 76 more valid cards! Allowing for invalid cards he wants to collect 100 more within the next 2 weeks. That would give him the required number necessary (1259) to qualify. He still needs your support to make it happen. Please print out 2-4 cards, get them signed by registered Sumter County voters (party affiliation does not matter) and get with Andy. He will come and get them from you. Thank you.🙏

03/31/2026

For the past 6 years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting the Sumter County Cattlewomen’s Association and their incredible annual “Lace and Spurs”dinner and fundraiser—and this year was no exception.

This event is more than just a great evening with friends and neighbors. It’s about preserving our agricultural heritage, supporting local ranching families, and ensuring that the next generation understands the importance of Florida’s cattle industry.

The hardworking members of this organization pour their time and energy into making a real difference in our community, and I’m proud to stand with them year after year.

Thank you to everyone who made this event a success. I look forward to continuing this tradition and supporting the people who help keep Sumter County’s roots strong.

03/31/2026

The Sumter County Board of County Commissioners approved the design and construction of a roundabout at the intersection of E C 470 and CR 527 S near the Lake Panasoffkee area. Phase one of the construction project is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The fourth and final phase of the project is slated for completion in January 2027. Construction is expected to have minimal impacts on traffic, with no detours or alternate routes scheduled at this time. While crews are present on the roadway, travelers are advised to follow all posted signage and drive with caution.

The decision to implement road improvements is based on findings from a safety analysis conducted by Sumter County’s Public Works Department in 2024. Roundabouts are a proven safety improvement that helps reduce both the frequency and severity of crashes. By design, they eliminate high-speed, head-on collisions, replacing them with lower-speed interactions that are far less likely to result in serious injury. The continuous flow of traffic also minimizes sudden stops, helping to prevent rear-end collisions. Additionally, the road configuration supports safe crossings for pedestrians and bikers, allowing them to cross only in one direction at a time.

Fuel tax revenues are playing a critical role in advancing this road project, providing a dedicated funding source to support infrastructure improvements that enhance safety, mobility, and long-term sustainability for the community. You can track this project’s progress by using Sumter County’s Project Tracker. The digital tool is also located on Sumter County’s website.

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03/14/2026

03/14/2026

It’s auction day! Andy and his fellow Commissioners are here supporting the young men and women of the Sumter County Future Farmers of America.