TAMPA, FL / ST. PETERSBURG, FL — Shumaker Advisors continues the strategic expansion of its Florida operations with the addition of Ed Montanari as Principal in the firm's St. Petersburg office, strengthening the firm's presence and leadership in one of Florida's fastest-growing markets. The firm also announced the return of Patrick Baskette as Principal and the addition of Sean Schrader as Director of Operations in the Tampa office.
Ed brings more than 20 years of distinguished public service to Shumaker Advisors, including deep experience in municipal governance, land use, and long-term planning that has directly shaped the growth and economic development of the City of St. Petersburg. His addition reflects Shumaker Advisors' commitment to supporting public policy initiatives, economic development, and strategic growth in St. Petersburg and the Tampa Bay region.
"Ed's leadership and institutional knowledge of St. Pete are invaluable," said Ron Christaldi, Shumaker Partner and President/CEO of Shumaker Advisors. "He has played a critical role in guiding the city through transformative growth, and his insight into public policy, development, and civic leadership will be a tremendous asset to our clients and the communities we serve."
A former nine-year member of the St. Petersburg City Council and an eight-year member of the Planning and Preservation Commission, Ed played a central role in shaping the city's waterfront development, redevelopment initiatives, and long-term planning efforts. Throughout his tenure, he chaired and led numerous task forces addressing some of the city's most complex and high-impact projects, earning a reputation as a thoughtful and collaborative leader focused on sustainable growth and community outcomes.
In addition to Ed's appointment, Patrick Baskette returns to Shumaker Advisors as a Principal after previously serving in the role from 2016 to 2019. A nationally recognized public affairs strategist with more than three decades of experience, Patrick brings extensive expertise in advocacy, coalition building, and public policy. He directs a 30-state network of bipartisan public affairs operatives and is known for developing winning strategies at the local, state, and federal levels.
Sean Schrader joins Shumaker Advisors as Director of Operations in the Tampa office, where he will focus on strengthening internal operations and supporting firmwide growth. Sean brings experience in legislative advocacy, political research, and international relations, and he plays a key role in enhancing cross-functional collaboration, executive planning, and operational efficiency.
Together, these additions further position Shumaker Advisors to serve a wide range of clients navigating complex governmental affairs and development challenges throughout Tampa, St. Petersburg, and beyond.