Live Oak — United States Senator

No submissions from the Aug. 14 primary candidates - Democrats Glenn A. Burkett and Bill Nelson; Republicans Connie Mack, Mike McCalister, Marielena Stuart, Dave Weldon.

Write-in candidates Naomi Craine, Robert Monroe and Lawrence Sidney Scott will be published in late October, prior to early voting for the general election, since they can only be voted on in the general.

No submission from general election candidates Piotr Blass, write-in; Chris Borgia, nonpartisan; Bill Gaylor, nonpartisan; Lionel Long, write-in.

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U.S. Representative



James Jett (Rep)



Question 1


Why are you running for U.S. representative?


I believe America is in trouble and Americans are hurting. Our country cannot afford more of the same, the status quo or someone who just goes along to get along as the 24-year incumbent has done during his tenure. I believe this is the most important election in American history and I can make a difference. I believe our country needs representatives who will stand up for what is "RIGHT" without becoming a part of what is "WRONG" and I have a proven record of standing "UP" and standing "OUT" for these beliefs. I am a constitutional, conservative, republican Christian who will stand up for my country against those who are destroying our liberties and our way of life.

As a county commissioner I was asked to raise taxes during tough economic times, I refused and voted against two county budgets because they included tax increases. I became known as the "TAXPAYER'S FRIEND" by our local media and my constituents (see jamesjettforcongress.com for additional information). Secondly, while serving as a county commissioner, we were asked to approve zoning for a hazardous waste storage facility in Clay County. We denied this zoning request and a couple of weeks later I was approached by a man and offered a $30,000 "BRIBE" to help get this zoning approved. I worked with the State Attorney's Office, allowed my phones to be tapped, wore a body bug and met with the suspect who was later arrested, tried, convicted, and sentenced to jail for attempting to bribe a public official. Lastly, when I ran for Clay County's Clerk of Courts, I told the public that I would run this constitutional office like a business. In 1998, after being elected, we began downsizing, combining tasks and eliminating duplicative responsibilities. Now, in 2012, we have fewer employees than we had in 1998 and since 2004 have returned over $10 million dollars in unspent budgeted monies to our county and the State of Florida.

I have a proven record of placing my constituents first with honesty, integrity and character. I will carry my faith and these attributes to Washington as I represent those of Congressional District #3.

 

Question 2

The Affordable Care Act has been a hot issue for sometime and most recently with the Supreme Court’s decision in upholding the new national health care law. Are you in support of the Act? If so why, and if not why? Give three reasons.

I am not in support of "any" Nationalized Health Care Act, including Obamacare, for the following reasons.

#1...I do not believe the constitution provides authorization for a nationalized healthcare system.  The recent Supreme Court decision validates this premise, in that, it is not covered under "any" provision of our constitution except as a "TAX". So, I believe Obamacare should be repealed immediately and if there are not enough votes to repeal, then we must unfund it and allow this legislation to die!

#2...During difficult economic times, with runaway spending by the Washington liberals and an out of control National Debt we cannot afford the largest tax increase in American history caused by the implementation of Obamacare. We must 1st get people back to work and address America's economic woes. We must cut the corporate tax rate to encourage businesses and industries to create jobs and return their companies to America. The personal income tax must be slashed so we can have additional money in our pockets and not in the pockets of government.  The inheritance tax (death tax) must be permanently eliminated, the Bush tax cuts must be made permanent and we must adopt the "FAIR TAX" to ensure equity within America's tax structure.  By combining tax cuts with spending cuts and eliminating regulations which impede business expansion with a "BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT" we can create jobs and get our our people back to work. Creating a Nationalized Healthcare System will ruin "any" economic recovery for our nation.

#3...A Nationalized Healthcare System cannot be administered efficiently by GOVERNMENT.  If the Wasington establishment cannot make Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid financially secure, how do you think they can efficiently run a Nationalized Healthcare System? They cannot! This type of system was sponsored by Hillary Clinton and fortunately it did not pass. A Republican Nationalized Healthcare Bill was sponsored in Congress as the answer to Hillarycare (the Consumers Choice Health Security Act of 1993) by a little known Congressman from Central Florida, Cliff Stearns, i.e., "STEARNSCARE". It was not a good idea then and it is not a good idea now for America.



Question 3


One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?


Protecting and preserving our water supply while providing for good clean growth is going to be the number one issue in Florida for the forseeable future. This issue is an area of expertise which, I believe makes me uniquely qualified to be your U.S. Representative in Congress. 

As a Clay County Commissioner I was appointed to investigate why the water in our Keystone Heights areas was drying up and our lakes disappearing. We addressed this problem like I believe we should address the protection and preservation of our water in the North Central Florida area. 
All affected parties must agree to come together and work together as a team. You must get by the attitude of many of the environmental agencies which simply take the position, "It's the lack of rainfall". Although this may be part of the problem, you have to examine every possible impact which may be occurring to eliminate those which do not apply and focus on those which will apply to protect/preserve this important natural resource. The members of the committee must remain neutral, yet focused, as you begin the process and all must be sensitive to each other's views as you proceed down such an important yet sometimes controversial road.

In our study, we began by examining the history of rainfall in our areas, then went to those outside influences which could possibly be affecting our watershed areas. We discovered the lack of rainfall did play a part, but, the mining industry and their permitted watershed impacts also was causing a problem. The mining industries worked extremely well with us during the entire process and agreed to lower drain pipes to levels where they had historically been at. They also agreed to partially drain man-made lakes to create additional water flow back to the Keystone Heights area. When I left office in 1994, water was returning to the Brooklyn Bay Lake as a result of all parties working together.

So, in summary, it is very important that everyone work together with as little outside influence as possible. Government representatives, concerned citizens, environmental agency representatives and representatives from the business and farming communities must work together to protect, preserve and maintain the integrity of this natural resource for all impacted entities. As your U.S. Congressman I would be happy to help in any way possible to
accomplish the goals needed to protect and preserve our water supply. 



Question 4


What do you think of the No Child Left Behind Act? What should its future hold?

As I have said, I am a constitutionalist and believe every piece of legislation passed by Congress should pass two test; Is it constitutional and will it affect all Americans, including Congress?

So, you must ask, is the education of our children a federal or state issue? Article 1, section 8 of the constitution describes the things over which Congress has the power to legislate. This list does not include education, the "COMMERCE" clause does not apply and at no point did our founding fathers consider it a function of the federal government. The "No Child Left Behind Act" is a push for centralized control over what our children should be taught and what they should learn, from a federal standpoint. This movement is a challenge to educational freedom in America, creates a federal system of control, is very expensive and takes away the rights of local school systems to educate our children.

Any involvement by the federal government should be supportive in nature only with "NO" strings attached. The state and local educational leaders should be the ones who work to strengthen state standards and tests, provide school performance information to parents and taxpayers while empowering parents to act on school performance data by offering more school-choice options.

This act should be repealed. 




Steve Oelrich (Rep)



Question 1


Why are you running for U.S. senator?

Our country is in dire need of leaders who will stand up for what is right and fight to restore our economy and prosperity. We can’t talk about trimming along the edges of our national debt; we need to make wholesale changes. If need be, we must cut whole agencies and departments. We are in debt to China, a country that wants our way of government to cease to exist. We cannot afford to borrow our way out of this debt any longer, we need to pay it off now, not 10-20 years from now. I’m the only candidate in the race that has a record of standing of for what is right, no matter what the political consequences.



Question 2

The Affordable Care Act has been a hot issue for sometime and most recently with the Supreme Court’s decision in upholding the new national health care law. Are you in support of the Act? If so why, and if not why? Give three reasons. 


ObamaCare is the largest government invasion into our personal lives by the Federal Government ever.  My opponent, Cliff Stearns, says he opposes ObamaCare, but what he fails to mention is he was the primary sponsor of a competing healthcare spending bill nearly identical to ObamaCare, which also mandated universal health care coverage.  If elected, I will work hard to put an end to the slippery slope of government intrusion on the families and businesses of the citizens of North Central Florida.

Government should not be getting involved in one of the most personal decisions in our lives, health care.  It should not be up to the government to decide the type of health care someone receives or if someone will or will not receive attention to a life threatening condition. Lastly, Canada has a similar health care plan as the one proposed by the Obama Administration and we see on a regular basis Canadians coming to U.S. hospitals for treatment. Creating more government bureaucracy and placing a bureaucrat between a patient and their health care provider is not the right solution.



Question 3


One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?

Protecting our waters is about balance. We need to ensure that proper irrigation is in place so farmers are able to grow their crops. We also need to find cost effective solutions in protecting our ground water. However, the federal government should not be involved in local decisions of water protection and water solutions. When farms are able to flourish, it will attract more jobs and job seekers to help grow the local economy.




Question 4


What do you think of the No Child Left Behind Act? What should its future hold?

I think the No Child Left Behind Act may have come across originally as a good idea, but creating more federal bureaucracy is not the right answer. As Chairman of Higher Education in the Florida State Senate, I know from experience, that solutions to our educational system should be dealt with on the state and local level in addition to being discussed around the kitchen table. What may be the right answer for Florida, may not be the right solution for the school system in Iowa. The federal government has no business in local education and that’s why I support abolishing the Department of Education.



Cliff Stearns (Rep)



Question 1

Why are you running for U.S. representative?

I have a proven record of defending the Constitution and fighting for fiscal responsibility and traditional social values.  I’m proud of the endorsements and support I have received from leading conservative organizations in Florida and around the nation, including, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Rifle Association, Florida Right to Life, National Right to Life, the American Conservative Union, and the Family Research Council.

As a former business owner for more than 20 years, I understand the challenges of creating jobs and dealing with government regulations.  My record for job creation and economic growth has been recognized by the National Taxpayer Union, which named me a Taxpayers Friend again this year, making me one of only 53 House and Senate members to be so honored.  In addition, Citizens Against Government Waste and Americans for Tax Reform have recognized my strong record.



Question 2

The Affordable Care Act has been a hot issue for sometime and most recently with the Supreme Court’s decision in upholding the new national healthcare law. Are you in support of the Act? If so why, and if not why? Give three reasons.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act or Obamacare is a bad law when it was passed and is a bad law today. It creates 150 new panels, programs, and agencies and institutes 21 new taxes, including at least 12 new taxes on the middle class. It also cuts half a trillion dollars from Medicare to pay for new spending. Obamacare is a bad bill that America cannot afford and as the Supreme Court has now confirmed; Obamacare is the largest tax increase in American history. I believe that decisions regarding healthcare should be made by patients and their doctors, not by the government.



Question 3

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?

Much progress has been made in achieving the ambitious goals that Congress established more than 35 years ago to restore and maintain our nation's waters. However, the Obama Administration has attempted to use the Clean Water Act to force costly and burdensome regulations, like a federal numeric nutrient standard, on communities and small business. We all support clean water but water regulations must be established through a science-driven process with appropriate, realistic procedures and timeframes for achieving compliance. Without this approach, this vital resource that could help attract growth could instead cost communities jobs and inhibit the recovery of many Florida communities.



Question 4

What do you think of the No Child Left Behind Act? What should its future hold?

I voted against the No Child Left Behind Act because it marked a dramatic expansion of the federal government’s role in decisions that directly affect teaching and learning. Education has traditional been directed by the States and I believe in providing states with more flexibility to address the needs of their students. Although I applaud the achievements gained this far from this bill, I remain committed to ensuring that States have more flexibility and accountability by improving their teacher incentives program and developing reasonable methods to measure student’s academic achievement.



No submission from primary candidate, Ted Yoho (Rep). Democrat J.R. Gaillot is running unopposed for the party and will only be on the general ballot. His answers will appear in late October prior to early voting for the general election, alongside the winner of the primary. The answers from Philip Dodds, nonpartisan, will be published then as well.

No submission from Michael Ricks, write-in or Kenneth Willey, write-in.



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3rd Circuit State Attorney

The answers will be published in late October prior to early voting for the general election. The candidates will only be on the general ballot. They are incumbent Robert L. "Skip" Jarvis, Democrat, and Jeffrey Alan Siegmeister, Republican.

Circuit Judge - 3rd Circuit
Group 2



Andrew J. “Andy” Decker III



Question 1

Why are you running for office?


I am running for circuit judge because I have truly been blessed to have had a legal practice that is as much a ministry and outreach to the community as it has been a professional calling. I would like the opportunity to work hard to serve the people of the Third Judicial Circuit as an effective and fair judge.


I believe that the person elected to judicial office as Circuit Judge holds a sacred trust and commitment to the community to treat every person who comes before him with dignity, respect and fairness. Our circuit judge should be an individual with integrity, maturity, judgment and the temperament to act patiently and wisely. I believe that my 33 years of practicing law and service to the community have given me the legal training and life experience to serve with honor and distinction as your circuit judge.  
I have handled over 10,000 client matters including thousands of jury and non-jury trials involving every kind of civil and criminal case. I have over 60 published trial and appellate court decisions. I have served on the Florida Bar’s Professional Ethics and Judicial Nominating Committees and have represented the Suwannee County School Board and Suwannee County Development Authority. 
In this time, I have donated my services to churches, charities, and families. I helped establish the Suwannee Valley Humane Society and Love in the Name of Christ outreach ministry.
I have been married for 39 years, and we have two children who are lawyers working with me. I have taught Sunday School classes for 25 years as well as Bible classes at many different churches in Suwannee County.  



Question 2


What would you like to see accomplished while you are in office?

I believe judges must be committed to making the legal system more efficient, open and

available to the citizens of the seven counties comprising our Third Judicial Circuit. The

taxpayers of this circuit have had to tighten their belts and make do with less in this tough

economy. Although the case loads are increasing, tax dollars are decreasing.  

If I am elected Circuit Judge, I will work hard, adopt more effective use of technology, and work

with court administration to incorporate citizens’ input to increase efficiency. I am willing to

hold extended court sessions to accommodate peoples’ work schedules and to move the peoples’

cases through the courts.  

I attended the Memorial Day Services this year at the VA Hospital in Lake City and listened to

the keynote speaker, Rachael Maguire, an Apache helicopter pilot in Operation Enduring

Freedom, talk about the trauma and post-traumatic stress issues faced by many returning

veterans. Some of these veterans have not adjusted to civilian life again as well as others and

have faced legal problems related to their wartime experiences. Several years ago, the judges of

this circuit developed Drug Court as a diversion process to help people overcome drug use and

become effective citizens again. With the resources in our community and especially the VA

Hospital in our circuit, I will work to develop a Veterans Court to help those who risked their

very lives for our freedoms overcome these challenges.

I believe that holding judicial town hall meetings where citizens may ask appropriate questions

about the judicial system will provide greater understanding and confidence in the way justice is

administered in the Third Judicial Circuit.

I am committed to improving the administration of justice by avoiding delays, consulting with the other judges to streamline the court system and working tirelessly to move cases through the system.



Question 3

Which group of prominent figures have endorsed you?


I have been blessed to have the support and prayers of my many present and past clients whom I have had the privilege of serving for the past 33 years. In campaigning for Circuit Judge - Group 2, I have also been supported and endorsed by many of our civic leaders, lawyers, and businessmen in our circuit as well as the sheriffs, clerks of court, pastors and civic leaders in our circuit. Please take a moment to watch my video on YouTube® or AndyDecker.com.




Question 4

What is the most significant case that you have worked on as an advocate or judge? (Please don’t say every case is equally important).

It has been the clients and not the cases that have held a significant place in my legal practice for

33 years. Every client I have represented has held a significant place in my mind and heart.

However, I believe there is one significant case that I am at liberty to share that illustrates my

commitment to justice, hard work and perseverance on behalf of the underdog.

Several years ago, Proctor & Gamble attempted to take a portion of my clients’ lands in violation

of the law and without compensation. Proctor & Gamble is a large, multinational corporation

with almost unlimited resources to litigate, and it retained one of the most influential and

prestigious law firms in Tallahassee for legal representation. The issues in the case involved

complex real estate and boundary law questions. Although my clients initially lost their case at

trial, I fought hard for them, and on appeal we ultimately defeated Proctor & Gamble and saved

my clients’ property. I fought for my clients and the First District Court of Appeal rejected

Proctor & Gamble’s claims. This 1994 decision is reported in Volume 648 Southern Reporter

Second Series, Page 180.

I believe this case was significant because it demonstrates my knowledge of the law; dedication

to justice; loyalty and commitment to my clients as a sole practitioner facing a large Tallahassee

law firm; and hard work for my clients. This case clearly shows that I believe in justice based

on the law and the facts regardless of a person’s power, position or popularity.



Frederick John “Rick” Schutte IV



Question 1

Why are you running for office?

I am seeking the position of Circuit Judge because a seat as Judge is the pinnacle of any attorney’s career and validation for serving the law honorably. A position, for which the citizens whom you have served as their advocate, as well as your peers, believe that you have the qualities, qualifications and experience to fulfill. I personally sought the position after the honor of many clients and other attorneys asking me to run. I believe that I do have the qualifications, human qualities, real experience, legal and personal life, to serve as a judge, and to serve well, my fellow citizens.

 

Question 2

What would you like to see accomplished while you are in office?

I think it would be an accomplishment if I am able to show the people that the office is open, that I strive in rulings to be honest, fair, and have full knowledge of the law. I aspire to have every litigant, no matter what walk of life, socio-economic status, or ethnicity, leave the court knowing that I had listened to all sides of the case, been fair, followed the law, and made the hard decision despite there being an easy way out.



Question 3

Which group of prominent figures have endorsed you?

In a local race, many of our prominent figures are themselves elected officials. As a judicial candidate I am prohibited from using an endorsement from an official who is seeking re-election. 

The Canons of Judicial Conduct are clear, and have been re-iterated by the Judicial Ethics Advisory Committee in their opinion, 12-21. I have spoken with many elected officials throughout the circuit. Many have offered a pledge of support, to which I have thanked them, but declined, explaining the Canons. I have avoided any hint of impropriety, actively by them speaking in my favor, or passively by me appearing in photographs with them. Endorsements from business leaders, and citizens include; Mike Shaw, Mayo Fertilizer and Concrete; Buddy Williams, W R Williams Distributors, Mayo; Jimmy Hewett, J&J Gas Service, Mayo; Jason B. Wainwright, Suwannee Health & Fitness, Live Oak; Kevin Bedenbaugh, Plumb Level Construction, Lake City; Janet Donald, Heritage Title, Live Oak; Big Daddy’s Barbecue; Loretta Thomas, Hot Heads Salon, Live Oak; Charlie McIntosh, L & J Gas and Diesel Inc.; as well as others.

 

Question 4

What is the most significant case that you have worked on as an advocate or judge? (Please don’t say every case is equally important).

The most significant case I have handled was not a wrongful death, civil rights, felony criminal case or numerous other cases that I have prosecuted or defended. It was a simple action that was taken pro bono. A man appeared in my office with a nasty letter from a collection agency, threatening to take everything that he and his wife had, including their home. He explained that he needed to retain me to save his home. He was elderly, disabled, and his wife a cancer survivor, living on a small social security payment. He explained that because of illness, he could no longer do odd jobs, and had gotten behind on his payments. The creditor had placed him into a default interest rate, where the balance grew to quadruple the original balance, despite the client making payments. I advised him that I would take the case, and we began. I investigated, using all the paperwork he had, and mounted a vigorous and valid defense. Despite it taking nearly a year for trial, two days before trial, the collection agency agreed to dismiss, after reviewing our evidence against them. I had a very happy client. The client was never billed, there was never an expectation on my part of being paid. My payment was the gratitude of the client and his wife, and helping the couple when no one else would. David took down Goliath, the world’s largest retailer.

 

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Circuit Judge - 3rd Circuit
Group 5



Wes Douglas



Question 1

Why are you running for office?


I am running for office because the basic principle of our legal system is confidence in the fairness and integrity of our judges. 

Members of our community work for years building solid families, businesses, and careers. 

Inevitably, at some point or another, and maybe without any fault of our own, we go through family or business struggles that may end up in court.  When choosing a judge to hear a case so important to you, you must ensure that the judge has the character and integrity to be fair, respect your position, and properly and justly apply the law.  Practicing law in North Florida, I have had the pleasure of being in front of a lot of top-rate, intelligent, and fair judges.  I have the character and ability to meet the demands of justice and I will give each person the respect and attention they deserve.  



Question 2


What would you like to see accomplished while you are in office?

It would be my goal for every citizen to have complete confidence in the legal system.  We must conduct our lives in a manner that inspires confidence in the judge and therefore justice. 

While, of course, a judge’s job is to administer justice, which carries with it the inevitable displeasure of certain people, I hope that because of the way I carefully and prayerfully decide each case, the people of this circuit will be confident in our system.



Question 3

Which group of prominent figures have endorsed you?

From my next-door neighbors to people I have met campaigning in neighborhoods; I have been overwhelmed with support and continue to seek the endorsement of every member in the third circuit.  I have not sought out any prominent endorsement, but I have certainly been pleased to receive phone calls, encouraging words, and even some contributions from people who believe in me. 

I hope that each voter will ask the hard question, “Does that candidate’s life and character demonstrate a fitness for the responsibility of judge?” Prominent or otherwise -- I look forward to earning every vote.



Question 4

What is the most significant case that you have worked on as an advocate or judge? (Please don’t say every case is equally important).

I have worked on high-stake business matters and many heated litigations.  Each case has shaped who I am. The most significant case, on a personal level, was helping a client who was in a physically abusive relationship. I represented her, free of charge, and assisted her in the legal process of transitioning out of her abusive relationship.  I was able to use the power of the law to help her and her small child get out of danger and transition to a safe life.  Seeing her family and others live and grow together in a better life and knowing that in some way I helped means the world to me.  “Significant” could mean many things to different people; it could mean a large monetary verdict or the representation of high profile clients etc.  However, knowing a family and the community are better because of someone I helped is extremely “Significant”.



Jimmy Prevatt


Question 1

Why are you running for office?

I’m running because I can make a significant contribution to the court and our community.  I believe I am the type of person who lawyers and the public would want as a judge.  I have almost three decades of legal experience litigating cases, not only in our circuit but around the southeastern United States, and I view serving on the bench as the culmination of that career, not as a stepping stone.  I was raised under the model that a judge was an experienced lawyer that worked hard practicing law and tried a wide variety of cases for a good number of years, gained the experience, increased knowledge of the law and wisdom of those years and then finished his career on the bench to serve the community by imparting that wisdom he had gained through the years back to the legal system and community as a whole.  

I am respected by my peers and have had a successful law practice.  I have been a fully engaged husband and father, active church and community member and my life experiences, both good and bad, have developed my character and broadened my perspective on life.

I believe the community wants – no, demands - a judge who will be able to command the respect of the lawyers, litigants and the court community because he has conducted his entire legal career with dignity, respect and integrity and is now prepared to do the same thing as a judge in our courtrooms.  But also a judge who has the wisdom and perspective of life experiences to examine the facts that are presented to him.  


Question 2

What would you like to see accomplished while you are in office?

I want to continue the tradition of swift and fair but firm administration of justice in the Third Circuit.   As a trial lawyer, I have seen and have an appreciation of the toll to both individuals and businesses of expensive and drawn out litigation.  As far back as 1614, Sir Francis Bacon observed on the occasion of his ascending the bench in England, that “…fresh justice is the sweetest.”  Our courts must continue to strive to be innovative to bring swift justice to the public.  After all, the courts belong to them.  

In the past few years, our courts have seen great strides toward the transition of our court system into a paperless operation by the use of Electronic Document Management System, or EDMS. EDMS is designed to receive and store electronic court documents and will allow more and more court users access to and view of court records for their case, 24 hours a day, seven days a week from an office or home computer.

I also believe we ought to seek to develop specialty courts that target the underlying problems that bring people into our courts in an effort to craft better long lasting solutions - courts such as drug, domestic violence and elder courts. I recently read a report from The Center for Rural Pennsylvania, that noted that these specialty courts are focused on outcomes, such as decreasing incarceration to reduce total jail days expended, lowering recidivism rates and reducing future victim costs, providing education and job training opportunities to offenders to allow for better employment opportunities, keeping families intact where possible, breaking the cycle of anti-social and criminal behavior in families, and returning productive and engaged citizens back into their communities.  Handling these matters in specialty courts would not only conserve scarce resources in the criminal justice system but also “cycle individuals out of the court system and into productive lives.”

Unfortunately, the Third Circuit has relatively smaller populations in our counties and towns than many other circuits in Florida and funding such programs would be difficult at best.  

Finally, I would like to see free training for and a requirement for more experienced lawyers to mentor younger lawyers.  I was fortunate to have practiced with a great mentor in developing my trial skills over the years.  However, in today’s economic times, a lot of young lawyers are not being hired by firms and are forced to “put up a shingle” to support themselves and their families.  Law school does not make one a good lawyer.  Experience does.  I believe that the efficiency of justice would be better served by experienced lawyers training and working with the younger lawyers.

Justice is the backbone of our democracy, it is the safeguard of our rights, and it is the last bastion of our civilization.  Swift justice is just that much sweeter.



Question 3

Which group of prominent figures have endorsed you?

My family.  They are the most prominent figures in my life. In addition, Kelly Overstreet Johnson, a past President of the Florida Bar has endorsed my candidacy as well as Arnold Tritt, Jr., the current Chairman of the Construction Litigation Committee of the Florida Bar.



Question 4

What is the most significant case that you have worked on as an advocate or judge? (Please don’t say every case is equally important).

Significance is in the eyes of the beholder.  Is it the case that involved huge sums of money or the case that had the most profound effect on the lives of the clients involved?  Fortunately, or unfortunately, I have had the dubious privilege of representing clients that involved both.  

There are actually two cases that are so similar that I feel it’s impossible to say which was more significant.  One matter involved my and my former partner, Ernest Sellers’, representation of 130+ family farmers in cases filed in three different states against Monsanto and Delta Pine.  The cases involved the farmers’ purchase and planting of genetically modified (GMO) cotton seed that failed to perform as represented and warranted to the farmers.  The other matter involved our representation of 30+ family farmers and nurserymen in cases filed in seven Florida counties against DuPont.  These cases involved the farmers’ and nurserymen’s purchase and use of a defective fungicide called Benlate.  

In each of the matters, the losses incurred by the farmers and nurserymen were in the tens of millions of dollars.  Crops and nursery stock died or was stunted. Families’ lives were being traumatized.  Family farms and businesses were on the brink of going under.  Lands that had been in the family for generations were at risk of being lost.  After our representation and recovery for these farm families and businesses, a number of our clients expressed to us that our representation of them had kept their lives, property and livelihoods from being destroyed.

Candidate Angela Cancio's answers will be published in late October prior to early voting for the general election. She is a write-in candidate.



Sheriff of Suwannee County

The answers will be published in late October prior to early voting for the general election. The candidates will only be on the general ballot. They are incumbent Tony Cameron, Democrat and Fred S. Martin, nonpartisan.

Property appraiser

The answers will be published in late October prior to early voting for the general election. The candidates will only be on the general ballot. They are incumbent Lamar Jenkins, Democrat and William Neal Wright, Republican.



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Superintendent of Schools



Jerry Scarborough (Dem, incumbent)



Question 1


What is your best definition of ‘superintendent of schools’?

The superintendent of schools is, first and foremost, the guardian of every student enrolled in our schools. In cooperation with the school board, we are to provide a safe and caring learning environment at each of our schools. The superintendent is responsible for enforcing rules and regulations, and must carry out the policies adopted by the school board. However, the definition of a successful superintendent is one that believes that each and every child that walks through our doors is capable of developing quality skills that will later allow them to be successful contributors to our community and nation. The superintendent must provide vision, leadership, and promote a proactive culture, and support all school district employees in a manner that provides for needed resources to get the job done. It is with skill, heart, and team that we can continue to create opportunities for the children in our community.



Question 2


Name three qualities a superintendent should possess to adequately perform the duties?

a. The supreme quality for a superintendent is unquestionable integrity. In order to be a leader, one must have followers and to have followers, one must have their confidence. If one’s followers find him guilty of phoniness, and if they find he lacks integrity, he will fail. When leading with integrity, we grow other leaders around us with integrity, and most importantly we help our students to grow in their integrity as future leaders.

b. The second quality for a superintendent is vision. Leaders who are passionate about their organization will create vision. Passion fuels vision and vision is the focus and the power of passion. All effective leaders have a vision of what they must accomplish.

c. The third quality for a superintendent is adaptive leadership. The biggest challenge in education revolves around adaptive problems…another test, new curriculum standards, latest strategies, loss of revenue, and the list goes on and on. A leader’s challenge is that most people are reluctant to change and want every problem solved quickly by those in authority. The superintendent must be able to ask the right questions, provide information, and frame the issue. He must then develop proactive responses to the challenge and be flexible.



Question 3


Education budgets seem to continually remain the same while at the same time legislative action continues to mandate more programs, testing initiatives, etc. How do you balance the budget, implement legislative mandates while also protecting the integrity of the classroom?

Legislative appropriations for education have continued to decline. Total state and local funding in 2007-2008 was $38,527,289 compared to $36,087,830 for 2012-2013.

This reduction in state and local funding has made developing and sustaining a balanced budget extremely challenging over the last four years. As revenues have decreased, unfunded mandates and other fiscal challenges have increased. Still, it is this District’s position and commitment that the integrity of the classroom be protected.

The actions necessary to achieve this goal have often times required difficult and firm decisions to be made. A primary example of these actions was the decision to freeze administrative positions at the District level. This decision resulted in an annual savings of $400,000. This savings was used in the classroom.

Because we have planned ahead and showed fiscal restraint, we have been able to meet the needs of the classroom and keep our employees in the labor force. While many districts experienced workforce reductions, the Suwannee County School District has not.

Though our school district is in better shape than many, we face enormous challenges. I assure you that the School Board and I will do everything possible to preserve the commitments made to our students and to our employees. We will continue to adhere to our principles of financial responsibility.

 

Question 4


Bullying has been a topic in the mass media lately. How do we protect our kids and hold those that participate in bullying accountable?

Bullying has been a major concern to our School Board and me. We have recently implemented a system whereby bullying can be reported online. Parents or a victim of bullying are encouraged to report bullying either by phone, to school personnel, make a report in person, or complete the online bullying form.

Once the bullying incident is reported, the following actions occur:

• Administrators will acknowledge receipt of the report in three school days

• A preliminary review of the incident may be conducted to determine need for the investigation

• If warranted, an investigation will be conducted and completed within 10 days

• Parents of the victim and bully will be notified of the results and the school will take appropriate action

It is in educating and empowering our youth to stand together and to respect one another that we can put an end to bullying.



Dianne Westcott (Dem)



Question 1

What is your best definition of ‘Superintendent of Schools’?

The Florida statutes are very specific about the powers, duties and responsibilities of the Superintendent as the secretary and executive officer of the district school board.  The Superintendent must advise and counsel, make sound recommendations, nominations, proposals and reports to the district school board.  Every duty, power and responsibility would be better performed by a Superintendent with knowledge and experience in education.  For example:  the Superintendent must “visit the schools, observe the management and instruction; give suggestions for improvement and advise supervisors, principals and teachers.”  Only a candidate with my educational qualifications and administrative experience can best perform the duties and responsibilities of the office.  



Question 2

Name three qualities a Superintendent should possess to adequately perform the duties?

Possess effective communication, personal, analytical and leadership skills to set goals for schools and work with principals, parents and members of the community to implement the changes necessary to meet these goals.

Demonstrated leadership skills to unify the district and community to a common vision and mission, to ensure the district school board is effective by working and communicating as a team within themselves and with the community we serve.

Depth of knowledge in all areas of education to carry out the duties and responsibilities of the office as outlined in statute and at the direction of the district school board.



Question 3

Education budgets seem to continually remain the same while at the same time legislative action continues to mandate more programs, testing initiatives, etc.  How do you balance the budget, implement legislative mandates while also protecting the integrity of the classroom?

The needs of our students and protecting the integrity of the classroom are the priority of any Superintendent and the school board. Federal and state unfunded or under funded mandates is a major cause of financial stress within the district. The Superintendent must be knowledgeable about school finance to make the decisions which will ensure a safe and supportive learning environment that will meet the highest academic standards. Familiarity with laws and rules will help to identify provisions which are a “must” versus a “shall” requirement. Penalties for non-compliance must be weighed against bankrupting the district and/or distracting from academic goals for our students. Accurate reporting for state and federal funding must be improved and monitored to maximize funding. Grants are pursued to enhance school and classroom goals.  Other current sources of funding such as federal grants must be critiqued to ensure they are meeting the highest priorities of the schools.  Personnel must be prioritized to meet classroom needs.   



Question 4

Bullying has been a topic in the mass media lately.  How do we protect our kids and hold those that participate in bullying accountable?

Bullying is a serious social issue that must be the concern of everyone.  A bully cannot and will not be tolerated in our schools.  Bullying can be physical, verbal or emotional.  It is easier to be corrected if addressed early.  We need to practice diligence to stop bullying before it starts.  Every member of the school system including students and staff must attend a “No-Bullying Zone” workshop.  Every school employee will be held accountable to detect and report suspected bullying.  Every adult in the school will be assigned areas such as the hallway, cafeteria and playground for an increased adult presence.  Cameras on buses need to be reviewed to detect bullying.  A bully is not obvious in their acts.  The bully responds to the reaction of the victim and from the peer group.  Students must be taught and constantly reminded that bullying is negative and not to be tolerated.  A parent contacted about their child being a suspected bully needs to work with staff to address negative social behavior before it becomes a serious problem.   The school district has a policy to define bullying and the Student Code of Conduct provides options to correct the problem.  Every case of suspected bullying will be investigated and resolved based on the policies of the school board.  



Candidate David Laxton’s Last Word responses will be published prior to the general election alongside the winner of the primary. Laxton is the only Republican in the race, so he will only be on the November ballot, alongside the Democratic winner.



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School Board District 2



Muriel S. Owens (Incumbent)



Question 1


What do you think the role(s) of an affective school board member should be?


The role of an effective school board member is to set goals for their schools and work toward those goals alongside their superintendent, principals, and administrators checking often too see if progress is being made. Being an effective school board member, you must always believe that every student has the ability to learn and achieve at their own level.



Question 2


How do we make sure our students are given every opportunity available to learn and to ultimately graduate high school? Be specific on certain programs. 


There are so many great opportunities students are given to enable them to graduate.  There are afterschool programs, virtual school, tutoring, and at the Opportunity School credit retrieval programs, also for those students that has had babies and want to continue their education, free daycare is offered, classes are also offered to incarcerated students.



Question 3


Education budgets seem to continually remain the same while at the same time legislative action continues to mandate more programs, testing initiatives, etc. How do you balance the budget, implement legislative mandates while also protecting the integrity of the classroom?


School budgets are spent continuously out the year.  Federal dollars are spent in the order that it is received.  Constantly new laws are being handed down from legislation to mandate more beneficial programs and tests.  Therefore, the budget has to be balanced by a highly qualified finance director with the help of superintendent, board members and administrators.



Question 4


Bullying has been a topic in the mass media lately. How do we protect our kids and hold those that participate in bullying accountable?


Bullying will continue to be a hot topic or “the” topic when it comes to schools. Bullying in itself is all around us, not only among our children at school, but, in some cases, also with adults on our jobs, in our everyday walk in life. We continue to protect our children in school by talking to them about this issue, putting posters around school, having Resource Officers available at every school, letting them know that it is okay to tell on someone when you are being harassed or being made uncomfortable. When the incident is reported or found out, the culprit is handled, no case is left untouched! The student code of conduct book addresses this issue thoroughly. This is why our students and parents need to familiarize themselves with this book.

No submissions from Catherine Cason or Heshimu “Chris” Thomas.

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County Commission District 1

Jason Bashaw (Rep)

Question 1

What are your thoughts on the role of county government?


The role of county government is what all government is supposed to do – protect the people, provide the infrastructure needed to facilitate commerce & economic development, and set the course for the direction that best facilitates the previous two. Too often government expands to become a solution unto itself.   Our county government should endeavor to protect any progress we have made economically and not let ourselves regress backward to a weaker economic state.  My role as District 1 County Commissioner will be to listen to the people and then provide leadership as their commissioner through the promotion of policy and advising on process that will accomplish their will. Too often I see micro management and inefficient methodology implemented in pursuit of personal agendas and that’s just bad government. We deserve better and must improve communication between the Board of CC and Suwannee residents.  I hope to focus on forming a goal oriented inclusive vision to set a clear path. If we can do that then it becomes a matter of monitoring progress towards those goals.  



Question 2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?

I am in favor of consolidation where appropriate. Being heavily involved in private sector budgeting and accounting within the retail, corporate, service, and farm industries leaner and meaner is always the order of the day.  Consolidation in local government can be a means of creating and maintaining a more streamlined and efficient process to deliver governmental goods and services to Suwannee County residents.  However, before voting in favor of consolidation of any particular department or positions I would require a cost and service benefits analysis be conducted by staff so that both the commission and the public could examine and understand the specific benefits of each potential consolidation.



Question 3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?

It is easy to speak in ambiguous terms regarding the spending of tax dollars while running for office.  Fiscal responsibility has been a bright spot in Suwannee County and I will continue to insist on a balanced budget and remain financially responsible. But here is an area where modernization may generate efficiencies and save the taxpayers’ money.  I feel there may be new ways of working with and managing the financial resources of the county on a day to day basis.  I feel we need to look at both a short and long term capital improvement plan. A fiscally conservative expenditure process must be considered as there may be ways to spend less which would then provide resources for critical services. By increasing revenue through the generation of private enterprise we can meet our NEEDS.  Here are several ways we can limit spending within local government:  Consolidation of services into one location, third party review of county budget, more privatization of government services, and a resource recovery program that depreciates and liquidates assets at the appropriate time before they are virtually worthless.



Question 4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?

Suwannee County is in a high water recharge area for our Floridian Aquifer.  The Suwannee County Commission has no statutory authority or process through which or by which we can manage withdrawals from the aquifer or the level thereof.  That being said, we should have been doing more.  Now we must make sure the Suwannee Water Management District and the FDEP do their jobs as the statute requires.  Eco tourism and farming are valuable industries within our county.  They also make-up a large portion of the tax base.  Before any changes can be made we must have the proper data in hand to make informed decisions with regard to this important issue. If elected I will make sure our public works department and our planning and zoning department share responsibility for monitoring FDEP and Suwannee River Water Management activities providing regular reports on all water related issues to a coordinator. In turn this coordinator will be responsible for reporting to the board and recommending appropriate policy and action. We can and should insist on appropriate oversight of both groups and could consider legal action to force both the districts compliance and FDEP’s compliance with establishing minimum flows and levels to protect our resource.  We must also facilitate communication on this issue between all parties, especially the public. In other areas of our state and our country problems of this nature have been solved with limited economic impact to all parties concerned.  We should study the process and final actions of these governmental bodies so that we avoid any potential pitfalls that they may have experienced and implement policies that have a history of success in reaching the goal of protecting our water resource. The last thing we need to do is try to reinvent the wheel, failing to draw on the experiences of others.

Question 5


How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the catalyst site?

First and foremost take care of our existing businesses.  We must be involved within our state to identify and take advantage of business opportunities that become available to our county. Isolationism has never served a community well. Being in the right place at the right time is a big part of being successful.   Appropriate planning should be insisted on by your elected officials so that land use and infrastructure mach up with our vision for the future and are ready as we grow.  Streamlining and consolidating our Economic Development efforts is another way to ensure positive economic growth.  Bringing all stakeholders together to craft a community wide vision for Economic Development so that “…we the people…” can agree on and support it.  Delegate areas of responsibility as appropriate and facilitate implementation of an Economic Development plan.  Identify and remove any barriers to marketing and acquiring desired industry.  Develop and implement an effective county wide marketing program so all businesses know what is going on economically and can adjust appropriately.  A high quality marketing campaign for potential business prepared by professionals could highlight the many advantages we now have to offer such as the catalyst site, natural attractions, large workforce, low cost of living, Vocational & Technical School, etc.  We should not wait for business to come to us….Let’s pursue and court the types of businesses we want here to show the world our door is open and we really are shovel ready.



Billy “Steve” Brannan (Dem)



Question 1


What are your thoughts on the role of county government?


The role of county government is to oversee the counties activities and work to see that the concerns of the citizens are met. It is also important to see that federal and state mandates and requirements are carried out.



Question 2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?


I believe it could be a good thing in some situations. I see a savings of funds in todays economy. I also do not believe we need a committee to over see every project, that is what our elected officials are supposed to do.




Question 3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?


We keep spending down by not wasting the funds we have. We have to carefully consider our choices and spend wisely. In so doing we can help ensure a safe and productive society.



Question 4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?


Protecting our water can be done by using it wisely. If we can teach our communities proper water management and we all work together to conserve this precious resource our water will hopefully outlast us. We need to ensure that big companies and big business don’t abuse the privileges given them when pumping water out of our rivers. Our rivers and lakes are a real draw to our county and thousands of people come every year just to see them so we need to be sure we continue to protect and promote them.



Question 5


How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the catalyst site?


I believe we can achieve this by offering tax breaks at the local level as well as look at any state incentives and grants that may be available. It is important for the city and county to work closely with the development authority, chamber of commerce and other boards to be sure we promote our community to bring in business and industry that can offer positive growth and benefits for us.



Jesse Caruthers (Dem-incumbent)




Question 1

What are your thoughts on the role of county government?


The role of County Government, is a local level, right here, at your finger tips, representation. You should be able to contact your Commissioner anytime you need them. If you called and left me a message I returned the call, if anyone needed to see me I went, it’s not that difficult.




Question 2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?


Consolidation of City and County Government, first thing that would need to happen is for the City voters to say that is what they want. In the beginning of City Government, it was additional services in a smaller area that the people wanted and they were willing to pay extra for it. County Government was for a large area, the whole County. Back then you had more residents in the City than was in the County, today in Suwannee County you have more residents in the County than you have in the City. If consolidation is what the voters want and are willing to pay for it, then it should happen.

Question 3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?


You can’t spend less and receive more services, just like good and cheap should not be in the same sentence. It is the Commissioners job to provide the services that the taxpayers want at the least possible cost.



Question 4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?


Local sources first has been the rule for all Counties for years, but the cost has some Counties looking for less expensive water first. In the State of Florida the State owns the water. The science has proven that the east coast Cities are drawing our water down, this has been known for years, we have more to lose than the costal Cities they have the Ocean, we must work together, all of North Florida, Residential, Agriculture and Commercial, without water there will be no growth.



Question 5


How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the catalyst site?


We must seek partners in industry, not dependents, you can only give so much away, all prospective Companies will want equal treatment, what you give to one you better be able to give to all. The Catalyst site has the potential to be a good thing, if caution is thrown to the wind, it could be a burden to the taxpayers. You must have a revenue stream to continue giving incentives.



Lee Chauncey (Rep)




Question 1

What are your thoughts on the role of county government?


Government, at any level, should be as limited as possible.  Of course the administrative offices of county government are necessary.  Beyond that, county government should be limited to law enforcement, fire protection, EMS and managing the growth of the county in a responsible manner.  We should offer basic protection of our citizens, then get out of their way and allow free market forces to move our economy forward.  More government inhibits prosperity.



Question 2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?


There are communities all over the country that have successfully engaged in some level of consolidation of government.  We tried consolidation of some city and county services here in the past.  That effort failed.  

If we can consolidate some government offices and either save money or improve services, or even better both, we should consolidate.  In order to justify the consolidation, we must clearly identify areas of consolidation that can succeed.  Some university participation in this process would be helpful. We must then specify in detail the exact responsibilities of the new entity.  

Most importantly, we must have unambiguous inter-local agreements spelling out the contractual responsibilities of each agency. This is where we failed before. The written contractual agreements were not in place. A verbal agreement is not worth the paper it is written on.



Question 3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?

The key to reducing spending is to eliminate wasteful spending.  There is waste in any large organization.  Suwannee County is no exception.  It is the responsibility of the county commission to identify that waste and to eliminate it.  As commissioner, I will examine every spending decision with waste in mind. Every spending decision the commission makes has the potential for waste. If small areas of waste can be eliminated from some or most decisions we make it will add up. Sometimes the whole idea the commission has before them is wasteful.  We have to have the strength and wisdom to oppose wasteful decisions.  We must be fiscally responsible.  All spending must be examined in depth. I pledge to do that.

I will ask each department to examine ways to cut waste. Managers will be expected to use best management practices and to employ continuous quality improvement.  

There should be an incentive program for county employees to identify and report wasteful areas of spending. I will look for ways to institute such a program or enhance any existing program.



Question 4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?

I attend every meeting of the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) Governing Board.  I address the board at each meeting.  This is because I recognize the profound importance of this issue.

Water is essential for our survival.  More than that, our waterways have provided recreation for many generations of Suwannee County residents.  The Suwannee River is the identity of Suwannee County.  When others pump our river dry, they are engaging in the worst form of identity theft.  It is the Suwannee River and its related waterways that attract tourists to Suwannee County.  

Water shortage problems are a major impediment to our ability to recruit new industry to Suwannee County.  Businesses, wishing to locate in an area, look for an area where they will face as few problems as possible.  Water shortage is a major problem.  

The county commission is not empowered to regulate our water resources.  That is the domain of SRWMD.  Until the county commission gains some control over the issue of protecting our water, we are at the mercy of SRWMD.  I don’t think anyone has come up with a perfect answer for the problem, but telling us that we should water our grass only one day a week doesn’t even approach a solution to the problem.   I have some very specific ideas on how we as a county can gain significant control over our water supply.  Immediately upon taking office, I will propose these ideas to the commission and encourage the other commissioners to join in the effort to take control of the issue.

I have told the SRWMD board on several occasions that we need a moratorium on consumptive use permits.  The recent flooding will give people a false sense that the problem has been resolved.  It has not.  Soon that water will flow out to sea.  Despite the claims of SRWMD, our aquifer levels have remained virtually unaffected by the flood.  We have to bring some ideas to the table on this and get some results.  We cannot afford to wait any longer.  The SRWMD is “studying” the problem.  The problem is clear.  We are pumping too much water out of the ground for commercial applications like JEA.  I pledge to work hard to bring this practice to an end.  I do not accept the idea that we cannot do anything about the SRWMD.  We definitely can.  



Question 5


How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the catalyst site?


The current condition is that Suwannee County has to compete with other communities across the nation for the type of business that we would like to have participate in the catalyst site.  I believe we can reverse the perspective on competition for location of businesses.  I believe we can create an environment in Suwannee County which will be so appealing to businesses that they will compete for the privilege of locating here.  This would not require a lot of concessions to businesses.  We don’t have to “give away the store.”  What we have to do is promote Suwannee County aggressively.  We have everything businesses are looking for.  We have interstate highways leading in all directions.  We have an airport, railways and a great vocational-technical school.  Our hospital is growing and becoming a great medical center.

Most importantly, we have a large pool of honest people, who are a viable, trainable work force.  The integrity of our people is unmatched anywhere.  Industry would be fortunate to have our citizens in their employment.

We need a marketing team for the county that includes marketing and negotiating professionals.  We just recently retained a corporate attorney to represent the county for the Christmas project.  We need such an attorney on retainer and involved in the discussions with business prospects from the beginning.



Walter Starling (Dem)



Question 1

What are your thoughts on the role of county government?


The role of county government has grown in the last 50 years and has increasingly become more important and complex. County government provides vital public service functions including emergency management services; fire protection; public safety; emergency medical services; comprehensive planning; providing water and sewer services; job creation; economic development; operation of the jail; public record keeping; community recreation; health services; roads; libraries; and public transportation and more. It takes leadership and a will to find solutions to the enormous challenges our county faces and will continue to encounter in the future. I believe the role of the commissioner is to find a sustainable balance to competing funding needs and to foster a thriving business environment while looking out for the health and safety of our citizens.



Question 2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?


Consolidation is a very controversial topic in this county. Many years ago a study was conducted looking into the feasibility of combining certain governmental functions. That proposal went nowhere. But today, with the limited funds the county and the city have to work with, there are some services that might make sense to combine to get the most bang for our buck. After all, it is tax dollars that fund both units of government. We all need to be working together for the success and progress of Suwannee County and the towns and cities that comprise our unique community. There are a number of good examples of charter government where the election of constitutional officers is preserved and the consolidation of duplicative services have brought efficiency and cost savings. It is worthwhile to consider this proposal once again.




Question 3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?


I’ll give you an excellent example. Last week, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity brought staff from their office to meet with city and county officials to discuss how best to apply available funding to post disaster needs. Despite the state officials asking for funding priorities in our community, county staff were not at the table. We need to adopt some mechanism to ensure that all of the players are at the table in the future and funding for repairs to roads and infrastructure throughout the county have some meaningful prioritization. We need to ensure that prioritization of funding for needed infrastructure/repairs considers all county projects. Just because one player made it to the table first, shouldn’t mean that the county is excluded from funding opportunities. Effective communication among federal, state, and county and municipal officials is key.  



Question 4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?


Water is a basic human need that is essential to our health and survival. Without it our community and the good people in it die. Folks, for too long we have ignored the plundering of our resource. The day has come to call an end to the path of destruction being laid by corporate greed. Our water is disappearing, and with its disappearance our infrastructure is collapsing. Our roads, our homes and our community are suffering the consequences of JEA stealing our water. I am actively engaged in developing solutions to our impending water crisis. As your county commissioner I will fight to make sure water is available for our farmers, for our community, and for our future generations.  



Question 5


How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the catalyst site?

Infrastructure is the key. We have to work hard to build a business ready environment in our county. We need to make sure we have suitable roads, access to interstate systems and rail, a trained and ready work force, and land use and comprehensive plan regulations that focus growth to key areas in our community. We need  a sound Vision for our future. We all need to work together to achieve our goals, and to recognize that it requires hard work, persistence, and compromise to bring in new industry. Building a strong foundation will ensure future success in Suwannee County.

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County Commission District 3



Tim Alcorn (Rep)



Question 1

What are your thoughts on the role of county government?

The role of county government is to provide the public with several basic services Roads, Recreation, Police, Fire, EMS and Library while maintaining a balanced budget. The county must be run like a business with oversight and accountability. County government must find ways to improve and maintain the county infrastructure and balance the fees for the services for the county at a level that the county residents can afford.  Good business decisions for the county must be made even if they are unpopular with constituents. Government officials should be receptive to new ideas from employees of the county and from the community at large.



Question #2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?

Due to history and tough economic times, citizens are demanding government deliver more and new services with fewer resources.   To cutback and/or maintain programs and services, merge departments,  raise resources by increasing taxes, fees, and borrowing, is economically and politically challenging. Growing our way out isn’t a viable option either.  Most projections show tax receipt and cost curves that just don’t add up.

And it ought to be remembered that there is nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success, than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things. The innovator is looked at as the bad guy and those who have done well under the old conditions fear change and new conditions- however change and new ideas are sometimes good for all.

In short, by the combining of offices or positions I feel money can be saved and better services can be provided.



Question #3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?

Cheaper is not always better because there is a limit to how much we can cut spending and still provide a safe and productive environment.  By applying best management practices and accountability for our county, we can receive the most for our dollars.  Everything comes at a cost and cutting all spending would not be in the best interest of the citizens who demand a level of security and comfort with the county’s infrastructure and services.  Throughout history, it has been proven that you must spend money to make money in order to be a productive society.  We need to determine what we need in relation to what we have and then make the necessary changes in a feasible manner.   



Question #4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water.  Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?

By being responsible citizens and holding ourselves accountable for our water use.  Every drop counts!  The regulatory agencies who are allowing our water to be sent elsewhere need to hear that we all must do our part on small and large scales.  As a community we take the Suwannee River and the various springs for granted.  They are tourist attractions that we should cherish and keep clean.  Tourism brings revenue which brings outside income into our area. We must find and recruit businesses that are interested in using reuse water. Then with the use of state and county incentives attract those businesses to locate within our county.  



Question #5

How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the Catalyst Site?

A reasonable revenue source for economic development needs to be created. Money is needed to help improve existing businesses and/or attract new ones.  Currently Suwannee County has no revenue source or reserves with funds to help existing or new businesses. The State of Florida has numerous incentives that are available to companies however for a company to be able to make use of these; the county must also be willing to participate with local incentives. It is important to educate our citizens to this fact.  You must offer a company incentives to attract them to expand or locate within Suwannee County. In addition, our county must be willing to create new infrastructure with roads, potable water and sanitary sewer so that we are prepared to recruit companies looking for a shovel ready site.



Paul Gamble (Dem)



Question 1

What are your thoughts on the role of county government?

The county government provides public works,public safety, Parks and recreation etc. through the fourteen departments and five constitutional officers with an approved budget that is made up of our taxes, assessments and fees 



Question 2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?

Now is not the time to cut jobs.Everyone just needs to do more than asked and be respectful of each other and that would lead to a more productive workplace. I would like to see a centralized location for the offices in a county owned building and stop paying leases



Question 3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?

Spending reduction and safety- All Department heads need to continue to stay on top of expenses and encourage employees to be productive ,help cut cost and save whenever possible. Safety of the employees and citizens is our number one priority.Everyone goes home safe at the end of the day.



Question 4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?

Conservation is the best way to protect our water.  Our rivers,springs,state parks,and trails need to be showcased on interstate billboards, websites, travel magazines, t.v. e.t.c.



Question 5


How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the catalyst site?

We need to aggressively recruit businesses with tax abatement incentives and stress the quality and quantity of a job force that is available. Also must be cautious and research the history of that business to see if they will be there long enough to recoup the counties investment.     



Richard L. “Ricky” Gamble Jr. (Rep)



Question 1

What are your thoughts on the role of county government?

Chapter 125 of the Florida Statutes is the legal description that lays out the duties and responsibilities of the Commission. I believe the role of our County government is to fulfill those duties by tending to our County’s business, providing essential services and safety in the most cost efficient ways possible.  The elected commissioner’s role should be to listen to the citizens, set budgets, and pass ordnances.  Being the people’s voice, controlling the budget, and passing responsible ordnances, we can create an environment that restricts the growth of government and reduces the burdens placed on the tax payers.   



Question 2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?

Any time a government can combine an office or position and get the desired outcome for less money then why not.  Whether it is the County combining within its own departments or combining with a city or township and we can make it work, then I’m all in.  With a 56 million dollar budget and tax revenues falling short of where they were last year, it’s only right to reduce spending everywhere we can rather than looking to the tax payer again and again.  For this to work in the best interest of everyone and not become a turf war, those involved have to put aside personal differences and work together.  This can work and will save money.  



Question 3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?

A large part of our 56 million dollar budget, almost 70%, is State mandated expenditures, salaries, benefits, workers comp, property insurance, and utilities.  Another 20% is restricted and unrestricted reserves, so other than going against the State, cutting jobs, or spending up reserves that leaves around 10% of the budget to cut from.  I believe all options should be on the table and think we should start with the 10%.  Consolidation is a great way to save, but I don’t believe that’s where we should stop.  I feel incentives are a great tool as well.  There are many County workers with great ideas that could contribute to saving money and if those thoughts do work and are implemented then that employee should be rewarded for their ideas.  Another step to reducing spending is to review the services supplied by the County to see what levels, if any, can be reduced and still function as intended.  An example of a service that functions at a minimal level would be our trash collection and disposal sites; it runs us about 1.2 million a year.  It’s not the most convenient way to collect and dispose of our garbage, but it gets the job done at a fair cost to the tax payer.  Are there better, more convenient ways to do this? Yes, I am sure there are but at almost double the cost. I believe that all services should be reviewed to determine if it is feasible to reduce or not.  I know some people do not want to hear the word reduce when it comes to services, but with the budget as it is and tax revenues shrinking it is reduce or raise, and I don’t believe in raising taxes. We have to prioritize and look at cutting in some areas so we can maintain quality in others like Fire/ Rescue.  I believe through consolidation, incentives, making difficult decisions on some services and applying a little common sense to the equation we can keep cost down, maintain a balanced budget, and preserve a safe, productive society.



Question 4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?

First, I would like to see Suwannee River and St. Johns Water Management Districts get on the same page.  We have SRWM placing rules and restrictions on our district while St. Johns WM has not done the same.  I’m not saying that I agree with what SRWM is doing, but the two districts are pulling water from the same aquifer so they should at least enforce the same rules.  Our residents, farmers, and businesses should not have this burden placed solely on them when our neighboring water management district is pumping the same water and playing by a different set of rules.  It’s simply not right.   When attracting growth, we must ensure that it is clean growth and will not have a negative impact on the aquifer.  Hopefully, the two new boards which are the Stakeholder Advisory Committee and F.L.O.W. [Florida Leaders Organized for Water] made up of citizens and local leaders will have some positive input.  More studies are needed to know where our water is going and who is receiving it.  The more valid information we have available to us, the better off we are when making decisions that will impact us for years to come.  With Florida’s population growing, water will remain an important issue. We need to keep educating ourselves on this issue while ensuring everyone falls under the same guidelines.  Our water doesn’t adhere to imaginary boundary lines and neither should our policies.     



Question 5


How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the catalyst site?

Right now the County contributes around 57,000 dollars a year to the Council for Progress and has little to no say in what they do.  Something I think we should look at is having the County defund the Council and commit their funds and hiring someone to act as a sales rep for the county creating a development department. This would be similar to what Columbia County is doing.  Most industries have yearly functions or trade shows where they come together in support of the industry.  These shows usually have venders there of all sorts trying to sell their products.  Suwannee County is no different, we need a sales rep that can go where the manufacturing and distributing jobs are and pass out material on our great county, talk to industry leaders, and promote what we have to offer.  Money is the secret to a competitive edge in development.  Tax abatements, land with water, maybe sewer, utilities, and rail service are all part of the package we can offer companies to locate here.  These are great incentives, but without someone to push what we are selling they are just like any other county’s incentives.  We cannot sit back and wait for companies to find us.  We need someone to seek them out, look them in the eyes with a good old hand shake, and tell them we’d love to have them in Suwannee County and here’s what we can offer.            



Wayne Johnson (Rep)

 

Question 1

What are your thoughts on the role of county government?

Goverment at any level needs to play a secure force for the citizens without total contral of their rights stated by the Constitution of the United States.



Question 2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?

Consildation is good and bad you have to look at the area of consildation to have an accurate view of what is in the best interest of Suwanne County and then evaluate the one area not all of the areas.



Question 3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?

By reveiwing where our funds are being spent and why they are being spent.



Question 4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?


With Growth there is always resources needed .. We need to have a plan to encoruge growth at a pace that the resources can substain.



Question 5


How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the catalyst site?

We go to work,, there are no qaurntees of any one except to work hard . do the best you can and keep moving forward.



Andy Robinson (Dem)



Question 1

What are your thoughts on the role of county government?


I believe that the role of County Government is to provide essential public services to the people in a fiscally responsible manner that is beneficial to all citizens, not just government. As the administrative head of local government the Board of County Commissioners set the strategic direction and fiscal priorities for the county. The Board’s actions should reflect a solid commitment of its responsibilities to the people, providing efficient, effective, responsive and fiscally sustainable government operations, promoting safety and security.



Question 2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?

Factors such as duplication of services, escalating costs, and the growing size of government motivate the need for consolidation. The most important aspect when considering consolidation as a way to cut costs, reduce the tax burden, and balance the budget is to consider how essential public services will be affected. There must be intensive planning with clear and measurable goals set as to not reduce the level of essential services under any circumstance. If the level of essential services is not reduced, then I’m in favor of bringing together government offices/positions providing similar services into one streamlined, more efficient, economical, and responsive office/position.



Question 3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?

The county governmental service, just like any successful home or business must without error maintain a “Common Sence” budget. Through a “Common Sence” budget the present and future essential public services provided by the county for its people will be stronger and more effective, thus maintaining a safe and productive society.



Question 4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?


There is no reason to reinvent the wheel! We the people can protect our waterways by using our local government, the power of the media and having a strong, working partnership with water management. Our rivers and springs are part of the livelyhood for Suwannee County. We need to use these waterways to attract tourism and clean industry. We must protect our water resources.



Question 5


How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the catalyst site?

Suwannee County must be able to supply “THE BEST DEAL” to draw productive growth to our county! Through a strong partnership of County Commissioners, Realtors, The Tourism Board, The Economic Board along with out local business men and women we can put together the plan and make it happen. We must maintain a competitive edge by knowing that other surrounding counties have to offer and being willing and able to “compete” for “jobs” for our people, thus creating the much needed growth for our county.

Candidate Jennifer Collins' answers will be published in late October prior to early voting for the general election. She will only be on the general ballot as a nonpartisan candidate.



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County Commission District 5



George Duren (Dem)

 

Question 1

What are your thoughts on the role of county government?

The role of government at any level is to secure the rights and freedom of the individual citizen. The Governing body of the county should be there to facilitate and coordinate the different departments to the needs of the people and follow the will of the people that has placed them in the elected office they hold. The county government should not be in competition with the private sector but use the private sector to carry out the work that is required of the local government that the people have elected to have done. The County Government should not be acting in accordance with their own agenda but with the consent of the people who elected them and with their approval. The taxpayers should hold accountable the County government for the good stewardship and oversight of spending so that it is done frugally and efficiently without duplication and waste.



Question 2

How do you feel about consolidation of governmental offices/positions?

Consolidation of government offices can be done in certain circumstances when there is a duplication of services. A complete evaluation of the county offices and departments need to be done to find where there is inefficiencies and duplicated service so that a correction can be made to better serve the taxpayers.



Question 3

How do we keep spending down while at the same time ensuring a safe, productive society?

Reducing spending or keeping spending to a minimum and still provide the necessary services the taxpayer require requires diligent and close scrutiny when you are using other people money. Justifying every penny spent is the responsibility of the different department and have to be held at a higher standard than the private sector as they are using taxpayers dollars. There is not an endless supply as government seems to act much of the time. Many mistakes are made and lack of recourse to the misuse or miss handling of tax dollars are not addressed many times so it continues to be repeated. This practice has to stop. Many of the jobs the county does can be done more effectively and cost effective by using the private sector to accomplish the tasks necessary.



Question 4

One major issue concerning our area right now is protecting our water. Briefly explain how we protect our vital resource while also using it to attract growth?

Our water resources are a prime concern to out community. The SRWM has total control over this right now and we have to change the way our water is protected. The Water management districts are not applying the rules evenly but allowing other districts to take at will while imposing restrictions on us. This is discriminator at least and we have to change this. At the present time the only way this will change is to directly engage the governor to facilitate the necessary instruction to water management of bring legal action to get it changed. I would hope the Governor would be receptive to a fair set of rule that are equal since the Water districts can not get it together. Good water management will not only protect our resource but keep it where it does not have to be regulated down to micro-management of the usage by the community. Education and conservation works together to create a better understanding and cooperation of the public and businesses to protect this valuable resource.



Question 5


How do we ensure that Suwannee County becomes and maintains a competitive edge for prospects for growth, such as possible suitors for the catalyst site?

Suwannee County can not be conducive to bringing in outside businesses until they become business friendly with the commercial entities that are already here. Offering perks to outside business and penalizing the local business is a strike against the community before you even start. A fair and equal playing field is necessary for the County to be successful and it starts with the people who are in the community now, not with new business coming in for the special favors. If you have a good base and business incentives for all business you will not have to offer special favors to anyone because the incentive is already a part of the community and will create a business friendly environment that will attract the people and business we need and desire to have here. It will not happen overnight and you can not buy them or pay them to come as it will not last and the taxpayers will ultimately pay for those mistakes. The community has to be sustainable and can not be done with continuing to raise taxes to pay for a false economy.

Incumbent Wesley Wainwright's answers will be published alongside the winner of the primary in later October prior to early voting. Wainwright is the only Republican running.



No submission from Kevin Williams.