- April 3, 2026
A candidate running to represent Zone 3 on the Ormond Beach City Commission has withdrawn from the race.
William Sanchez, a businessman who filed to run last year against incumbent Kristin Deaton, announced his withdrawal on his campaign's Facebook page on Friday, April 3. Sanchez said the decision "comes as personal matters require my immediate attention and a necessary reprioritization of my time and responsibilities."
"While stepping away from the campaign was not an easy choice, it is the right one to ensure that I can fully address these personal obligations with the focus they deserve," Sanchez said in his post.
Sanchez is the president and CEO of Solidus Communications Inc. He's also the founder and president of Cultural Awareness Fund, a nonprofit that strives for cultural unity through education, community service and outreach. He has served on local boards including the Cultural Council of Volusia County and the Volusia County Business Incubator.
In his Facebook post, Sanchez said his withdrawal wasn't a goodbye, but a pause to allow him to eventually return to serving the community at his full capacity.
"I remain deeply committed to the vision that inspired this campaign: a stronger, more transparent, and more inclusive Ormond Beach," Sanchez said. "The conversations we have started — about responsible growth, public safety, infrastructure, and opportunity — must continue, and I encourage every resident to stay engaged in shaping the future of our city."
With Sanchez out of the Zone 3 race, Deaton is now running unopposed. The qualifying period for local candidates begins at noon on June 8 and runs through noon on June 12.
