Stacy Frank, an attorney and small business owner, today announced her candidacy for Florida's District 57 House seat. Frank,a Democrat, wants to replace Republican Faye Culp, who is term-limited out of the post. Frank is the daughter of Hillsborough clerk of the circuit court Pat Frank, a former Hillsborough County Commissioner.

Frank's announcement comes with a long list of endorsements, including U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner, Hillsborough County Public Defender Julianne Holt, Tampa City Council members Thomas Scott, Linda Saul-Sena, Gwen Miller, and Charlie Miranda and former Tampa Mayor Sandy Freedman.  

Frank can expect resistance from a vocal group of folks who have been fighting the placement of cell phone towers on Hillsborough County school property, saying they may pose health hazards to children. Frank is CEO of Collier Enterprises II, which holds a contract with the school district to lease land for the towers.

"I will be doing everything I can to make sure she doesn't get elected."  said Carrie Grimail, a cell phone tower opponent. "She's not going to represent us, the people. She's going to be representing her telecommunications buddies. She's defended them in lawsuits. Those are her constituents. That's what she's said through her actions."

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer