Chris Alahouzos has raised more than $28,000 for his Tarpon Springs mayoral bid. His opponent, Frank DiDonato has brought in less than $4,000. DiDonato didn’t raise a dime from February 1st through the 12th and during the month of January he only raised $50.
DiDonato is a chiropractor and former Mayor serving from 1998 until 2004 and as a City Commissioner from 1991 until 1994. Alahouzos served as Vice Mayor of Tarpon Springs and six years on the City Commission.
While funding isn’t everything in a hyper-local race, Alahouzos cash flow influx means he gets to buy a lot more name recognition. He’s spent nearly $23,000 throughout his campaign. Though His recent reports show just $51 spent for P.O. Box rent, previous reports have shown expenses on things like advertising and signs.
DiDonato has spent all but $213 of his campaign earnings. During the first two weeks of February he spent $472 on signs and an ad in the Tampa Bay Times.
Alahouzos is endorsed by some big names in the county including Congressman Gus Bilirakis, Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, State Senator Jack Latvala, State Representative Chris Sprowls and School Board member Ken Peluso.
He raised $1,725 this report from donors both in and out of Tarpon Springs. Alahouzos’ largest contribution came from M&J Construction in Tarpon Springs for $500.
Bill Sioutis of Belleaire Beach donated $300. Out of town contributions came from Massachusetts resident James Metropolis with a $200 check. Peter Masters from Clearwater contributed $100 and the Komninos Law Firm in Tampa kicked in $175. Odessa resident Kathy Theofilos gave $100.
Alahouzos has been a resident of Tarpon Springs for 48 years. He’s a Marine Reserves veteran and a member of the local Rotary Club.
The two candidates are vying for the chance to replace incumbent Mayor David Archie.
