My Bio
Meet Commissioner Betty Rzewnicki
Born and raised in Florida, District 3 Commissioner Betty Rzewnicki has built her life around service — to people, to community, and to the coastal environment that defines our region. Her lifelong connection to Florida’s natural systems inspired her to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Biology, with additional studies in Chemistry and Art. She later earned a Master’s in Education and a Master’s in Leadership, giving her a rare blend of scientific insight, educational expertise, and organizational strength that guides her work in public office.
In 2025, Betty earned the Gold Certificate for Elected Municipal Officials from the Florida League of Cities, demonstrating her commitment to professional development, responsible governance, and staying ahead of the complex issues facing coastal communities. She also serves on the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, contributing to regional resiliency, transportation planning, and long‑term strategies that protect both residents and the environment.
A Career Built on Service
Betty’s professional life spans multiple sectors, each grounded in advocacy and community impact. She began her career as a marine biologist and environmental educator, later becoming a teacher and school principal, where she focused on student success and family engagement. She then spent more than 20 years in the juvenile justice system, advocating for youth and families and working to improve outcomes for some of the region’s most vulnerable residents. Her leadership continued in the nonprofit sector through her work with United Way, strengthening community support systems and expanding access to essential services.
Leadership on the Commission
As District 3 Commissioner, Betty has been a steady, solutions‑focused advocate for infrastructure improvements, coastal resiliency, transparent governance, and responsible growth. She has worked to modernize aging systems, strengthen storm preparedness, improve communication with residents, and ensure St. Pete Beach remains a safe, vibrant, year‑round community.
She is looking to be reelected to continue working hard with proven experience, ensuring that residents have a commissioner who listens, communicates clearly, and puts community needs first.
Community Engagement Beyond City Hall
Betty’s commitment to service extends far beyond her professional roles. She has spent years mentoring through Big Brothers Big Sisters, volunteering as a certified Dive Instructor with the Florida Aquarium and participating in coastal conservation through Sea Turtle Trackers and other stewardship programs. She has also served as President of the Don Cesar Neighborhood Association and as a member of the Gulf Beaches Elementary School Advisory Council, helping strengthen neighborhood connections and support local families. She previously served on the city’s Beach Stewardship Board, reinforcing her dedication to protecting the coastline.
Family and Values
Betty and her husband, Jeff, are raising their 11‑year‑old daughter with the same values of service, community, and responsibility that have guided her throughout her life. Her motivation remains simple and deeply personal: “My entire life has been dedicated to serving others, and that commitment guides every decision I make.”
My Key Issues
Creating green spaces and urban parks
I support creating more green spaces and urban parks because they improve quality of life, protect our environment, and strengthen our city’s long‑term resiliency. Thoughtfully planned parks give residents safe, accessible places to gather while helping manage stormwater, reduce heat, and preserve the character that makes St. Pete Beach special.
Disaster preparedness planning
Disaster preparedness planning means strengthening our infrastructure, updating emergency protocols, and ensuring our city is ready before storms arrive. By improving coordination, communication, and long‑term resiliency strategies, we can protect residents, businesses, and our coastal community when it matters most.
Addressing aging infrastructure in residential areas
Addressing aging infrastructure in our residential neighborhoods means upgrading outdated sewer, stormwater, and roadway systems to improve safety and reliability. By prioritizing these improvements with long‑term planning and transparent communication, we can protect homes, reduce flooding, and strengthen quality of life for our residents.
Send Me a Message
Have questions or suggestions? I would love to hear from you!
Campaign Headquarters
3216 S Maritana Dr, St Pete Beach, FL 33706, USA