NEW SMYRNA BEACH -- If the race for the Volusia County Council District 3 seat were won on the basis of money alone, then Joie Alexander would be the clear winner with $30,320, Deborah Denys would be second at $16,114.25 and Ellen Darden at close third at $14,775.

But considering Alexander -- the incumbent at-large incumbent term-limiteed out of that race and trying to gain the Southeast Volusia seat held by outgoing Jack Hayman -- loaned her own campaign $10,000, the race would be tighter, if money were the only factor.

More money means more options for Alexander of Port Orange, but Denys and Darden, both of New Smyrna Beach, have strong name recognition in greater New Smyrna Beach, and both are competitive with Alexander in mailings so far. Denys and Darden are also have ads posted on NSBNEWS.net.

Former Deltona City Attorney George Trovato, is fourth among the seven candidates money-wide with $5,110.26.

Rounding out the field are Roger Gray at $4,225, William Benedict with $3,501 and John D'Hondt at $2,000.