In the sun-drenched coastal town of Madeira Beach, Florida, where the Gulf of Mexico kisses sandy shores, a leader has emerged from the tumult of political upheaval and natural challenges to steer her community toward stability and hope. Anne Marie Brooks, the current Mayor of Madeira Beach, embodies the spirit of resilience and dedication. As of March 31, 2025, she stands at the helm of this small but vibrant town, navigating its recovery from hurricanes and guiding it through the aftermath of a dramatic political scandal. Her journey from a local commissioner to a mayor elected for a full term is a story of unexpected ascension, community trust, and unwavering commitment.
A Coastal Town’s Steadfast Leader
Madeira Beach, nestled in Pinellas County along Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a picturesque community known for its beaches, fishing heritage, and tight-knit population of just over 4,000 residents. It’s a place where the rhythm of the tides often mirrors the ebb and flow of local life—peaceful yet occasionally disrupted by storms, both natural and political. Into this setting stepped Anne Marie Brooks, a figure whose leadership has become synonymous with the town’s recent efforts to heal and rebuild.
Brooks’ political career began modestly but decisively in March 2023, when she ran unopposed for the District 4 Commissioner seat on the Madeira Beach Board of Commissioners. Replacing incumbent Dave Hutson, who did not qualify to run again, Brooks entered local governance with a mandate from her constituents. Her early tenure as a commissioner showcased her ability to connect with residents and address their concerns, earning her the respect that would later propel her into higher roles.
A Sudden Rise Amid Political Storm
The trajectory of Brooks’ career took a dramatic turn on June 14, 2024, when then-Mayor Jim Rostek resigned in a blaze of controversy. Rostek’s departure was anything but quiet—he sent a scathing mass email to residents, accusing the city government, particularly City Manager Robin Gomez, of corruption, selective code enforcement, and financial mismanagement. His allegations painted a picture of a dysfunctional administration, leaving the town in a state of shock and uncertainty.
Under the Madeira Beach city charter, Vice Mayor Anne Marie Brooks automatically assumed the mayoral role following Rostek’s exit. Thrust into leadership under such extraordinary circumstances, Brooks faced an immediate test: restore faith in the city’s governance while addressing the fallout from Rostek’s claims. The transition was swift, and her District 4 commissioner seat was left vacant, later filled by civil engineer Housh Ghovaee in a special appointment.
Brooks’ initial days as mayor were marked by a call for unity. In a public statement, she urged the community to move forward together, saying, “It’s time for Madeira Beach to be united and heal and to quit looking for ways to tear each other down.” Her words struck a chord with a populace weary of division, signaling her intent to lead with empathy and pragmatism.
Facing the Winds of Change
Brooks’ tenure as mayor has been defined not only by political challenges but also by the physical storms that frequently batter Florida’s coast. In the wake of recent hurricanes—likely including the destructive forces of storms like Hurricane Helene or Milton in 2024—Madeira Beach found itself grappling with damaged homes, displaced residents, and the complexities of federal recovery programs. Brooks quickly emerged as a vocal advocate for her community, particularly in navigating FEMA’s stringent regulations.
One of her most pressing concerns has been FEMA’s 50% rule, a policy that dictates whether a home damaged beyond half its value must be elevated or rebuilt to meet flood standards. For many longtime residents, this rule posed a threat to their ability to return, potentially pricing them out of their own town. Brooks articulated the stakes with clarity: “The residents are frustrated. They’re tired. They just want to go home.” She warned that failure to comply carefully could lead to penalties, citing Fort Myers Beach, which lost its National Flood Insurance Program discount due to violations. “If we don’t get it right, we could end up like other municipalities that have lost their discount to their insurance,” she cautioned.
Under her leadership, the city prioritized meticulous inspections and permitting processes, balancing the urgency of recovery with the need to protect the town’s future. Brooks’ hands-on approach—ensuring that residents could rebuild without losing the essence of Madeira Beach—highlighted her deep-rooted commitment to preserving the community’s character amid pressures from development and tourism.
A Mandate Secured: The March 2025 Election
By March 2025, Brooks had proven herself a capable interim mayor, and the residents of Madeira Beach affirmed their trust in her leadership. Running unopposed in the municipal election, she was sworn in for a full three-year term as mayor, a position she will hold until March 2028. The election, held just weeks before March 31, 2025, also saw the induction of new commissioners, solidifying a fresh leadership team under Brooks’ guidance.
Her uncontested victory was a testament to the confidence she had earned. In a town still healing from both natural disasters and political wounds, Brooks’ steady hand and focus on unity resonated with voters. With a full term ahead, she outlined a vision for Madeira Beach that blends economic vitality, public safety, and the preservation of its small-town charm.
The Woman Behind the Title
While much of Brooks’ public life centers on her political roles, details about her personal background—her early years, education, or career before entering local government—remain scarce in the public record. What shines through instead is her character as a leader: accessible, empathetic, and resolute. In a community where personal connections matter, Brooks has made herself a familiar presence, whether at commission meetings, local events, or in conversations with residents rebuilding their lives.
Her leadership style reflects the realities of small-town politics in Florida, where trust and relationships often outweigh partisan divides. Brooks has navigated these dynamics with a focus on solutions, sidestepping the rancor of Rostek’s accusations to emphasize progress. City Manager Robin Gomez, despite being a target of the former mayor’s criticism, praised Brooks’ ascent, expressing excitement for her leadership and the city’s future.
Challenges and Triumphs
Brooks’ tenure has not been without its trials. The shadow of Rostek’s allegations lingers, with some residents still questioning the city’s operations, though Gomez and the administration have consistently denied wrongdoing. Meanwhile, the ongoing recovery from natural disasters tests the town’s resilience—and Brooks’ ability to lead through adversity.
Yet, her triumphs are evident in the steps forward Madeira Beach has taken under her watch. From securing federal aid to fostering a sense of community pride, Brooks has worked tirelessly to ensure the town emerges stronger. Her acknowledgment of the public’s frustration—“We’re in the angry phase right now. People just want to go home”—pairs with a determination to deliver results, endearing her to those she serves.
A Legacy in the Making
As Anne Marie Brooks looks ahead to the remainder of her term, her legacy is already taking shape. She is the mayor who stepped into chaos and brought calm, who faced the dual storms of nature and politics with unwavering resolve. Her focus on unity, resilience, and responsible governance positions her as a pivotal figure in Madeira Beach’s history.
In a region where hurricanes are a fact of life, Brooks’ leadership offers a beacon of stability. Her efforts to protect the town’s identity—keeping it a place for families and locals, not just vacation rentals—reflect a deep love for Madeira Beach. As she guides the community toward 2028, her story is one of a leader forged in challenge, rising to meet the needs of her people with grace and strength.
For now, Anne Marie Brooks remains a mayor in motion, her biography still unfolding with each decision, each storm weathered, and each step toward a brighter future for Madeira Beach.