UPDATE: Former Councilwoman Selena Samios has officially reclaimed her seat on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council following a tightly contested election on March 10, 2025. Samios garnered 1,175 votes (50.98%) to narrowly defeat incumbent Adam Miller, who received 1,130 votes (49.02%). This election saw just over 2,300 voters participating, showcasing a significant turnout for the local community.
Samios, who first joined the council in 2016, stepped down last year to pursue a mayoral bid but is now poised to return to her role. She is scheduled to be sworn in at the village’s annual reorganizational meeting on March 19, 2025.
“I am extremely pleased with the election results,” Samios stated. “I am honored that the residents of Royal Palm Beach have entrusted me to represent them for another two years.” Her victory is not just a personal triumph; it reflects the community’s desire for effective leadership and representation.
With a focus on inclusivity, Samios emphasized her commitment to serving all village residents, stating, “I look forward to representing all residents of Royal Palm Beach, whether they supported me or not.” Among her immediate priorities is enhancing support for local senior citizens, including conducting an updated senior needs assessment.
Samios is also keen on addressing rising commercial rents, a growing concern for local businesses. “I think that is something we need to look into as a council,” she noted, highlighting her proactive approach to governance.
In her vision for Royal Palm Beach, Samios stressed the importance of preserving the village’s unique character amidst growing concerns about overdevelopment. “We can’t lose our unique character and charm as a village,” she asserted. “The residents have made clear to me that they are frustrated with all the overdevelopment.”
Meanwhile, Miller expressed respect for the election’s outcome, despite the disappointment of losing by a narrow margin. “Of course, losing by such a small margin is disappointing, but I’m proud of the campaign we ran,” he said. He emphasized the importance of community engagement and thoughtful decision-making during his time on the council.
Miller plans to remain active in the community, stating, “Public service doesn’t only happen from an elected seat.” His commitment to local initiatives and resident engagement remains strong, even after stepping down.
As Samios prepares to take her seat again, the Royal Palm Beach community watches closely for her next steps. Her return promises a renewed focus on local issues and a commitment to maintaining the village’s beloved character.
With significant challenges ahead, including the need for effective business regulations and community support, Samios’s leadership will be critical in shaping the future of Royal Palm Beach. Residents are eager to see how her experience and dedication will influence the council’s direction in the coming years.
