Nesta unseats Deile
By TIFFANY REPECKI
Lenny Nesta Jr. garnered enough votes in Tuesday’s general election to unseat the incumbent in the District 3 Cape Coral City Council race.
Nesta, the challenger, won with 8,974 votes – 55 percent of the total ballots cast. Councilmember Bill Deile took 45 percent with 7,206 votes.
“I think it’s fabulous,” Nesta said of the election results. “I think we’re turning the city around in a new direction with respect and dignity.”
He added that he is very humbled and overwhelmed by the win.
“I wish Mr. Deile all the best in his future endeavors,” Nesta said.
Deile did not immediately return messages seeking comment Tuesday.
Asked about his priorities upon taking the seat, Nesta explained that rebuilding the respect between the city and its residents is number one.
“Getting the respect back between the dais and the citizens and their employees,” he said. “The citizens don’t have to be afraid to come to the podium and speak their mind.”
Nesta cited economic development and the suspended utilities expansion project as other issues that he would like to see the council address.
“We need infrastructure that’s sound and firm,” he said.
Nesta was the top vote-getter in September’s primary election. He took 5,273 of the total votes, while Deile came in second with 3,403 votes.
The general election results are unofficial until certified.