David Schmidt

Position

Council Member 
Mayor Pro Tempore (April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026)

Term

April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2027

Previous Terms

April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2025 (City Council)
April 1, 2017 to March 31, 2021 (City Council)

Biography

David Schmidt is a dedicated public servant, husband, and father of five whom he raises with his wife, Shannon. With a deep commitment to his community and a heart for service, David brings a wealth of experience in education, financial wellness, and contract negotiation to his role on the City Council.

Before entering the financial wellness industry, David served for 10 years as a school principal. He considers it one of his greatest honors to have guided and taught students, instilling life lessons that extend far beyond the classroom. That same passion for youth development is reflected in his community involvement. Thanks to the generosity of local individuals and businesses, David helped raise funds to provide 200 free youth memberships to the Fort Walton Beach Recreation Center, ensuring more young people could access vital recreational opportunities.

David also brings six years of experience as a contracting specialist and officer for a private contractor, where he successfully negotiated contracts and collective bargaining agreements with various Department of Defense agencies and the FAA. His work emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy relationships, fiscal accountability, and responsible stewardship—values he believes are essential in our homes, businesses, and government.

In addition to his professional service, David believes strongly in volunteering his time. He has taught financial literacy in the community and at several local churches and served on the board for Blessings of the Emerald Coast. His guiding principle, drawn from Proverbs 22:6, is a reminder of the long-term impact of investing in future generations.

As a Council Member, David is committed to honoring the city's rich heritage while actively planning for a thriving, sustainable future for all residents.

Board and Committee Appointments

Community Redevelopment Agency Board Chairperson (April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026)

One Okaloosa EDC Business Leadership Council (April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2027)

Emerald Coast Regional Council (April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2027)

Okaloosa County League of Cities (April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2027)

Okaloosa-Walton Transportation Planning Organization (April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2027)

You can email all City Council Members using council@fwb.org.