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With
next week's primary election looming in front of us I've decided to
take this opportunity to give my views on the local candidates. I'm
giving my recommendations for your consideration. I won't be doing a
lot of in depth analysis but will make a brief comment or two in
support of my picks.
Let's start with the candidates vying for positions in the County School system.
¨ For Superintendent my pick is Jim Barr.
I think his TV ad sums up pretty well what Bay County citizens have
viewed in past years, the revolving door. Though Rohan has some
applicable business experience, she has zero experience managing an
educational system. The choice is clear for me. We need a change agent
in Bay County School Administration and Jim Barr has the experience
needed without the baggage of being attached to the system.
¨ School Board
o District 2 - Ryan Neves is
a newcomer running for the Board position. He runs against incumbent
(Johnny Brock). Mr. Brock has been a long-standing advocate for
students but appears to have let his student advocacy overwhelm his
responsibilities to the tax payers. This is an opportunity for new
blood on the Board and I think Mr. Neves is a qualified candidate who
can bring a fresh approach.
o District 4 - John McFatter
deserves a second term. He has been a voice crying in the wilderness
and has lacked support from other school board members on issues of
fiscal responsibility.
Next Up, County Commission Seats.
¨ District 1 – Dan Estes
is my choice. Though the incumbents have made some progress in the last
two years, there are still issues that need attention. Until
controversy diminishes I think we need to keep switching out the
players.
¨ District 3 – John Salak is
the obvious choice. Salak brings a professional and business acumen to
the County Commission that is currently lacking. We need someone who is
adept at analysis and problem solving. Mr. Salak's background exhibits
those skills. The incumbent he faces is a product of the County system.
It is hard to imagine how things can be different if it is all you have
ever known or seen.
¨ District 5 – Jim Lawson may
have difficulty as a County Commissioner because of his very direct
approach, but you never are left wondering where he stands. He has made
legitimate points in his campaign regarding budget growth and wasteful
spending. Again, change is generally good, so I'm opting to embrace it
by eliminating the incumbent.
And now, Property Appraiser. Jeff Porter is
my choice of candidates for this office. Mr. Porter is right. The
system is broken. In looking at the background and qualifications of
the four candidates for this position, Mr. Porter's experience in
Tallahassee carries the most weight for me. We need an advocate and
change agent to attack the issues of property appraisal. His
presentation is credible and effective. He speaks well to the issues.
County Judges – Without comment I choose Crawford and Hauversburk.
Florida House District 5 – Brad Drake
US Congress, Florida District 2 – Mark Mulligan
Now, get out there and exercise your constitutional privilege!
Note: If you haven't started your research yet, CLICK HERE to watch what the candidates have to say.
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