Former Gulfport City Councilman Michael Fridovich passed away Dec. 14 at the age of 78.
Fridovich served on the City Council from 2013 until 2023, when he was unseated by Ian O’Hara. He was reappointed as an interim councilmember of Ward IV after O’Hara stepped down, signaling that his experience and acumen were still respected, despite regular disagreements on the dais.
Indeed, Fridovich’s tenure on the council was at times contentious: overly direct speech, public dissent and polarizing views.
However, Fridovich was also known to be principled, championing transparency, pushing for actions that benefited residents over developers and was willing to be unpopular if he believed his position sound – hence his interim role for the very public that voted him out.
In a social media post, Treasure Island and Madeira Beach Chamber of Commerce President Barry Rubin said, “Our community has lost a giant,” continuing, “Thank you, Michael, for your service to our country during the Vietnam War and all that followed in a lifetime of leadership. Your legacy will live on. You will be deeply missed.”
Former State Representative and Councilmember hopeful Jennifer Webb also gave condolences on social media: “Micheal Fridovich, you death is a loss for Florida, our city, my family.
“Michael was a fantastic friend, a committed booster of Gulfport, and an outspoken advocate for the underdog. Cynthia and I were brought to tears at the news of his passing. He was someone our family could count on and he will be deeply missed.”