Get to know the incoming Mayor of Ocala, Ben Marciano. With his first term starting this December, he won the election uncontested thanks to his popularity and widespread support in the community. Ben has become a well-known figure in Marion County since opening his highly successful gym, Zone Health & Fitness nine years ago. Learn more about his priorities for Ocala and why he felt called to public service.
Nonprofit Featured in this Episode: Kut Different
Ben Marciano
Mayor-Elect, City of Ocala
Owner, Zone Health and Fitness, Mayor, City of Ocala
Ben began his career in the fitness industry more than 20 years ago as a health trainer, quickly advancing to become the executive director of the Frank DeLuca YMCA in Marion County. Under his leadership, the facility grew in reputation and membership. With successful partnerships and philanthropic support, new programs were implemented to benefit members as well as the greater community.
In 2014, Ben and his wife Danielle became business owners, opening the first Zone Health and Fitness near downtown Ocala. Their second location, Zone West, opened in 2017 and is currently undergoing expansion to better serve the growing population on the Southwest side of Ocala. Zone Health and Fitness serves thousands of members with the goal of keeping Ocala safe and healthy for generations to come.
He earned an associate degree in criminal justice from The College of Central Florida and remains active with local law enforcement to help drive community awareness and assist in youth outreach. He was instrumental in the creation of the Chief Greg Graham Legacy Foundation and is active with many charitable organizations including the Boys and Girls Club, The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, Project Hope, the American Heart Association, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the Men’s Prayer Breakfast and many others.
Ben announced his candidacy for Mayor of Ocala in December of 2022. After drawing considerable support from the community and endorsements from the Professional Fire Fighter of Ocala and Ocala’s Fraternal Order of Police, he ran uncontested and became Ocala’s Mayor-Elect. His term will begin in December of this year.
Ben and his wife have 3 children and are members of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church.
The Catalyst is hosted by the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership, sponsored by Douglas Law Firm and recorded live at Wiley Productions podcast studios, located in Ocala, Florida. New episodes, guests, and perspectives of leadership premiere twice a month. Follow us on Apple, Amazon, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy podcasts.
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