Eric SanderA native of South Daytona, Eric graduated from Mainland Sr. High School ('74) and went on to earn a BA in Natural Science from the University of South Florida. After college, Eric found work in Ponce Inlet as mate on the headboat Snow White III and then on the charterboat Little Dolphin before partnering with his brother, Norman to buy a boat they named JAWSOME to participate in the newly formed commercial shark fishery. He expanded his shark fishing business by buying a larger vessel named MARSEA.

In 1998 Eric took an opportunity to "switch hats" and work for the State of Florida's Fish and Wildlife Research Institute as a field and research biologist conducting recreational fishing surveys with fishermen at docks, piers, and boat ramps. He was the Regional Coordinator for the North East Florida region and was responsible for the completion of the fishery surveys and sea observer trips scheduled for the region.

Eric departed FWRI in 2019 to focus on his own business of publishing fish identification charts, guides, and rulers for saltwater anglers. He continues to facilitate national workshops for NOAA Fisheries Service that trains federally permitted seafood dealers in a specific method of shark species identification that he developed.

Eric began his over 20 years of service to South Daytona as a member of the Code Enforcement Board in 2001. He has also served on the Land Development & Regulations Board, 10 years as Chairman, and the Planning and Appeals Board, also as Chairman before running in 2020 for Seat 4 of the City Council. He became Vice-Mayor in November, 2022.

Eric and his wife Kim have been married for over 25 years. They enjoy all things Florida and traveling together.

Contact Information:
Ph: (386)852-8588
Email: esander@southdaytona.org