Election 2026 | Question of the Week 4, District 4 (General Election only)
Cape Coral City Council races are non-partisan races. Council members qualify in their respective districts but are elected at-large. This means all registered city voters may cast a ballot in each race regardless of where they live and the party to which they are affiliated, if any. This year’s Primary, on Aug. 18, features three Cape Coral City Council races: Mayor and the seats for District 1 and 6. District 4, with only two candidates, will be on the Nov. 3 General Election ballot.
Question of the Week: What are your budget priorities? What, if any, departmental requests, do you support?
The following candidates are running for Cape Coral City Council set for District 4: (This race will appear on the Nov. 3 General Election ballot only:
• Jennifer Nelson-Lastra (I)
My budget priorities are simple: Fund the services our residents rely on, maintain our infrastructure, and protect public safety. I support investments that keep Cape Coral moving forward without unnecessarily increasing the burden on families. I have always evaluated departmental requests based on need, measurable outcomes, and whether they align with our community’s priorities.
• James Vargas
My priority is making sure every taxpayer dollar delivers measurable value. Before approving new spending, I want to ensure we’re operating efficiently, reducing waste, and making full use of existing resources. Public safety, infrastructure maintenance, stormwater management, and protecting our waterways should remain top priorities. I also support investing in technology and training that improves city services without unnecessarily growing government. Every budget request should be evaluated on its long-term benefit to residents, not politics.