Mayor candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record presented daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The Daily Record sent the same questions to candidates for mayor and here are their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space. Early voting begins today in Duval County.
Mayoral candidates Steve Irvine, with no party affiliation, and Democrat Warren Lee did not respond by deadline to participate.
| The candidates say... | What is the first piece of legislation you want to introduce? | What changes do you propose regarding economic development? | Do you favor an appointed or elected sheriff and school board? | Why should constituents elect you? |
 Alvin Brown Democrat | I will focus on jobs. I would streamline the process of doing business to make it attractive for companies to relocate here, especially industries targeted by the Chamber. I would establish a revolving loan fund so small businesses could access capital and credit. I would launch Business Link, connecting small companies with corporations to partner in business. That has succeeded elsewhere, is cost-effective and gives a return on investment. | I want to speed up the approval process for companies that want to do business in Jacksonville so we can remain competitive in a global economy. We need to remove barriers to creating jobs. The City should add resources to the economic development fund to help finalize deals that bring jobs to Jacksonville. We also need to focus on developing public-private partnerships that enhance business opportunities and bring jobs here. | Elected. The voters should decide. | Jacksonville typically conducts a national search for applicants with broad experience for jobs like port director. If we did that for mayor, I’d get the job. I served in the Clinton-Gore administration, managing a $4 billion initiative to create jobs, and co-chaired the White House task force on Urban Sprawl and Smart Growth. I have the connections to take Jacksonville to the next level that no other candidate can match. |
 Mike Hogan Republican | A revenue cap that tethers the growth of government to the economy and does not allow government’s purse to grow faster than the taxpayer’s purse. | I will completely restructure the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission to be managed directly by the mayor’s office with a greater focus on small business, the port and Cecil Field. | I have always favored electing our sheriff and school board. | With 30 years’ experience, I am the only business man running for mayor who has met payrolls and balanced budgets. I am a proven fiscal conservative taxpayers can trust to cut wasteful government spending and lower taxes in order to jump-start our economy and create jobs. Since 2003, the budget has increased by $300 million, up 43 percent, while the population has grown by 12 percent. I have a detailed plan to cut wasteful spending. |
 Audrey Moran Republican | The creation of a Downtown Development Authority (DDA) will be the first bill I introduce as mayor. It will provide a dedicated, dynamic approach to Downtown development. A vibrant Downtown is a catalyst to contribute to the community’s overall tax base by attracting new businesses, growing opportunities for existing business, creating jobs and enhancing our quality of life. | The City must partner with the private sector to create jobs and spur economic development. JaxBiz, the political arm of the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce, and the Associated Builders and Contractors have endorsed me as the candidate who will focus on job growth and economic development. I will leverage our city’s biggest economic engines: the port, the military, our health care system and our logistics industry. | I favor an elected sheriff and school board. Our citizens will and should guard their ability to elect these important officials. I will work to ensure open communication and establish productive working relationships with our city’s sheriff and school board members. | I am the one candidate in this race who has held positions of leadership in business, government and the nonprofit sector. I know how to build a team that is second to none that will be empowered to make things happen for this community every single day. I am ready to lead, make tough decisions and provide a vision for Jacksonville’s future. |
 Rick Mullaney Republican | Pension reform is essential to my goal of getting the city’s financial house in order without raising taxes, and it should start at the top. Therefore, I will propose a measure to eliminate the mayor’s and City Council’s pension plan and replace it with a private sector 401(k)-style plan. (My complete 34-point plan to fix city finances and grow jobs is available at www.mullaneyformayor.com.) | I will approach economic development by leveraging Jacksonville’s unique assets and competitive advantages to create defining industries that will grow jobs and the economy in: health care (the No. 1 employer in North Florida); the port (logistics, international trade and transportation, including jobs off the waterfront); aviation at Cecil Field; tourism; and the military. In addition to recruiting new businesses, I will adopt fiscal and regulatory policies that support existing business. | I favor an elected sheriff and school board because they most directly represent the citizens of our community. As a former prosecutor who headed the state attorney’s homicide division, I will work closely with our sheriff and state attorney to make our city safe for everyone; and I will work with our school system to convene stakeholders from throughout our community to improve public education in Jacksonville. | I’m a fiscal conservative and I have a concrete plan to cut spending, grow jobs and the economy, and get our City’s financial house in order without raising taxes. I’ve never run for public office before, I’m not seeking a career in politics, and I’m the only candidate who didn’t seek the endorsement of public employee unions. If I’m elected, I will be beholden to taxpayers and no one else! |
Sheriff candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to Sheriff candidates and here are their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the top issue facing the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office? | How do you propose to resolve it? | Do you favor term limits for your office, and why or why not? | Why should constituents elect you? |
 Soren Brockdorf No Party Affiliation | The budget and our disgracefully high murder rate. | I will implement IBM’s Cognos Business Intelligence and Financial Performance Management software that will allow us to eliminate 120 unnecessary government bureaucrats by delivering information directly to officers, saving $18 million a year. We’re the murder capital of Florida. My time working the Beaver Street/Moncrief Road area for JSO taught me the only thing that will resolve this problem is putting officers back on the streets and reducing response times. | I favor switching to a police chief appointed by the mayor. Unless we switch, we will never be able to bring in outside talent from other states. The truth is that none of the current sheriff candidates is what Jacksonville needs – myself included. Jacksonville could use someone like Frederick H. Bealefeld III, the current police commissioner of the Baltimore Police Department, which is experiencing its lowest homicide rate in decades. | I love Jacksonville and as sheriff, I will diligently work to reduce the budget. I have spent my entire career as a Certified Public Accountant reducing costs vis-a-vis process mapping and systems analysis. |
 Ken Jefferson Democrat | They are some of the same issues that concern the average citizen. We continue to lead the state in homicides. We are labeled the murder capital of Florida. Our negative public safety image impedes our economic growth. The image of Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office among the general public is in need of repair. I want to restore confidence that JSO is ‘capable, competent and caring’ in executing our mission on a daily basis. | By engaging every aspect of the community in activating small solutions that will ultimately lead to greater outcomes. Effective enforcement, community policing, evidence-based prevention, intervention and treatment programs, and effective neighborhood restoration programs must all be leveraged and coordinated throughout the city. We don’t have to reinvent the wheel. We just have to be committed to a comprehensive strategy. | I do favor term limits. All local offices with the exception of constitutional officers have term limits. Term limits are important because it allows for fresh new leadership, with fresh new ideas. You never want to allow the leadership to go stale. The majority of constituents in our city favor term limits for the exact same reason. Eight years in one position as a public servant is enough. | I truly believe that I am the best person for this job, for this time in our city’s history. I see a great disconnect between the sheriff’s office and the community. I will bridge this gap. We must shed the label as the murder capital and violent crime capital of the state. I have the law enforcement experience to understand how the office functions. I have the ability to collaborate to solve problems. |
 John Rutherford (incumbent) Republican | How to continue driving down the Jacksonville crime rate beyond the historic lows of the past two years while keeping the lowest cost per capita of policing of any Florida urban area. | We have four primary strategies: 1. Further develop the nationally recognized intelligence-led policing unit while fighting crime effectively and reducing costs. 2. Expand community involvement through community-led problem-solving initiatives. 3. More force multipliers like Community Service Officers. 4. Continue our groundbreaking efforts in Lean policing. | I do not favor term limits for the office of Sheriff. Leading a large law enforcement agency requires very specific law enforcement knowledge, skills and ability that can only be obtained through years of training and experience. It also requires sustained leadership to embed a culture of excellence and to develop leaders who can drive that excellence. | A proven record of leadership over the past eight years. We have built a nationally recognized intelligence-led policing unit while fighting crime and reducing costs. The 2003 Ten Point Plan has proven hugely successful in aligning the JSO workforce. We have created a CSO program to save tax dollars and make policing more efficient and effective. We have driven double-digit crime decreases for the past two years now down to 1983 levels. |
Property Appraiser candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to Property Appraiser candidates and here are their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit.
| The candidates say... | What is the top issue facing the Property Appraiser’s Office? | How do you propose to resolve it? | Do you favor term limits for your office, and why or why not? | Why should constituents elect you? |
 Kurt Kraft Democrat | According to public information, there are tax inequities throughout Duval County. | To be aware of the changing economic forces that may have a bearing on property owners and to appraise at fair market value. | I am for term limits – eight is enough! Term limits allow other citizens to provide elected leadership. | I have been a real estate appraiser in the Duval County Property Appraiser’s Office for 27 years. |
 Jim Overton (incumbent) Republican | The current volatility of real estate is unprecedented in our lifetimes. Sales include a large number of foreclosures and other transactions not constrained by normal market forces. This situation creates unusually difficult appraisal assignments to keep data statistically sound and regulatorily compliant while restricting assessments at lawful levels. Related to this, a sharp rise in assessment appeals creates workloads in excess of current staffing levels. | Current budget constraints preclude adding staff, so we will shift positions out of other divisions into the appraisal function. With that move, we will need to modify training and acquire new statistical programming to enhance mass appraisal techniques. We purchased a new set of aerials this winter to reduce the need for lot-by-lot physical inspections. Essentially we will resolve this with a ‘do more with less’ approach. | No, I do not. This is a complex managerial and public administration position, not a representative elected office. It is wasteful to throw out talent and accrued knowledge because of an arbitrary limit. Term limits make sense only for policymaking positions. I do not oppose age restrictions like those placed on the judiciary; however, either change would require a constitutional amendment and would apply to all counties. | Because our office is doing work they can be proud of. Since elected, I have instituted a program of administrative and managerial reforms for this office that have been well received by our customers, the taxpayers. We won the national award for our website and citizen outreach, we score excellent reviews for our customer service, we have instituted an internal ethics program and we receive clean audits every year. |
Tax Collector candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to Tax Collector candidates and here are their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the top issue facing the Tax Collector’s Office? | How do you propose to resolve it? | Do you favor term limits for your office, and why or why not? | Why should constituents elect you? |
 Michael Corrigan Republican | Efficiency. We must find ways to make our governmental departments more efficient. We need to do more with less. | From day one, I will perform a comprehensive review of the Tax Collector’s infrastructure and processes. We will use the results of this review to minimize expenses and explore opportunities to reduce costs through privatization. | Yes, I believe we should establish an appropriate term limit for each elected office that reflects adequate accountability and official responsibilities. | Small business owner, proven community leader! For the past 30 years I have built Nu-Trend Plastics literally from the ground up. Even in these difficult economic times, my third-generation family business is experiencing record-breaking success manufacturing plastic trays and containers here in Jacksonville. I have also spent the last three decades being actively involved in leadership positions in our community through numerous volunteer organizations and elected office. |
 Dick Kravitz Republican | The top issue facing the Tax Collector’s Office and every other government department is the challenge of operating a cost-efficient operation while still maintaining a high level of customer service. The taxpayers will demand the Tax Collector endeavor to cut expenses so as not to ask for tax increases to help fund office operations and staff salaries. | First, I would consolidate operations of the Tax Collector’s Office by shifting personnel from lower traffic offices to higher volume offices to be more efficient and to better serve the public. Secondly, I would pursue using modern, cutting-edge technology to process information and streamline customer-related operations to save money and improve efficiency. Finally, I would prepare my budget with an emphasis on doing more with less and consolidating the work force. | Yes, I absolutely favor term limits. Term limits allow new individuals to serve the public with a fresh, new approach to the operations of the office and ideas that are timely and innovative. | I am the only candidate with a graduate degree in administration and with executive level management experience in a retail-oriented, customer service business. This is the kind of educational background and real world retail experience needed to run the Tax Collector’s operation in a cost-effective, consumer-friendly manner. I am also the only candidate who has successfully managed a multimillion dollar budget in both the public and private sectors. |
 Ryan Taylor Republican | Customer service. My goal is to provide a level of customer service to the residents of Duval County and others having business with the Tax Collector, which is at once the most convenient and expeditious, streamlined and uncomplicated, accurate and trustworthy, that the office is capable of cost-effectively producing. | Education. My goal here is two-fold: to expand on the level of training the employees receive and keep the public educated on any operational changes to the various business applications the Tax Collector administers that will or may affect them. | I do favor term limits currently in place and would be open to term limits for constitutional positions if it was longer than eight years, maybe 12 years. There is a large amount of knowledge to run the constitutional offices. In order to achieve this to its greatest efficiency along with the changes that are made on a yearly basis, eight years is not enough. | I have worked in the Tax Collector’s office for 12 years regularly and interpersonally with every department and with every aspect of the office. I know what it takes to run the office at optimal levels, which issues are critical and must be tackled ‘day one’ and which ones only masquerade as problems. My knowledge of cutting-edge technology that is employed and needed by the office gives me the greatest advantage. |
City Council At-Large Group 5 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space. Donald Foy, a candidate for City Council At-Large Group 5, did not respond to e-mails or phone calls requesting participation. He has no party affiliation.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Fred Engness Republican | I’m not running in a district. My seat is countywide. | The budget crisis, pension reform, high taxes and wasteful spending. | No. | The citizens of Jacksonville, because I am the only candidate committed to not increasing taxes. |
 Sean Hall Republican | As a citywide candidate, the most important issue is the city’s economy. We need to bring jobs and grow small business. We need to focus on what will create jobs. We need to increase our tax base. Jobs reduce the crime rate and keep our kids in school preparing for their careers. Jobs are the best social program. | The economy and the high unemployment rate are holding back our city. To drive new business, we need to improve our education system in Duval. People work in Jacksonville. They come to Jacksonville to play and enjoy the city. What we need is for people to live in Duval County, and not move to other counties for better jobs or education for their children. Live, work and play in Duval! | I believe strongly in Downtown and new job creation. The port is a fantastic asset unique to us. The citizens of Jacksonville also need to believe that port growth and Downtown development are key to Jacksonville’s future. Downtown is the heart of Jacksonville. We need to keep the heart strong. Jacksonville deserves investment in the port and Downtown. | I am the only candidate who has international business experience. I currently manage a business unit worth over $70 million. As an infantry/airborne officer, I learned how to lead soldiers in very stressful and dangerous environments. As a husband and father, I know how difficult it is just to manage the day-to-day life in Jacksonville. In this citywide race, I am prepared to represent Jacksonville. |
 Robin Lumb Republican | The most important issue facing Jacksonville is job creation. We need to eliminate any regulation that discourages business investment while finding ways to streamline the permitting process. We also need to position Jacksonville as a center for international trade by fast-tracking the expansion and modernization of our port facilities. Jump-starting industrial development at the Cecil Commerce Center with an aggressive recruiting effort should be another economic development objective. | In addition to jobs and unemployment, which I’ve addressed, the most pressing problem is the City’s budget and finances. As a fiscal conservative who opposes increased taxes and fees, I’m committed to strict budget discipline with spending priorities that focus on essential services and basic needs. To remain solvent we must cut unnecessary spending and make meaningful changes to the City’s pension system. | I will not support higher taxes or fees unless they are approved by voters in a referendum. Taxpayers will not approve such a plan unless it represents a permanent solution to the City’s financial problems and not a stopgap measure. As for the startup costs associated with upgrading our port, we can use revenue bonds as a source of interim financing until federal and state funding is approved. | I’m running for an At-Large seat, which means it’s a countywide race, not a district one. As for why voters should elect me, I believe that my experience as a small business owner gives me important insights into job creation and budgeting. The fact that I’ve served in leadership positions in a number of civic and charitable organizations demonstrates my seriousness in improving our city’s quality of life. |
 Robin Rukab Republican | At-Large City Council members represent all the people of Jacksonville. I believe we need to jump-start the economy by working to bring jobs to Jacksonville. Businesses should be enticed and encouraged to move here. With all the vacant buildings in Downtown, it would not be hard to put together proposals to bring them here. | We know there are many pressing problems facing the City. However, I believe that unemployment is the top priority. Our citizens need jobs to support their households. | No. I do support revisiting the budget to consolidate or eliminate waste and duplication. During this review process, we may find ways to fund improvements to the port and Downtown. In today’s economy, additional tax burdens to our citizens will only cause harm to our already weak households. | My passion has always been public service and working for the people is an honor. My experience as a local business owner and former City employee will enhance my ability to become an effective councilwoman. I stepped in to the election because I want to work to enhance our core city and truly provide the quality of life our citizens deserve. |
 Michelle Tappouni Republican | As an At-Large candidate, I have the opportunity to look at the county as a whole. I live in Springfield, a very active community, which has become a microcosm of the challenges facing our citizens. Government efficiency and the handling of our budget is key, but many of the issues are interrelated, including safe neighborhoods, trust in our government, investment in our infrastructure and revitalization of the business core. | Public safety is a No. 1 priority. The budget is critical and all council members must be engaged in the process. Economic development to support current businesses and broaden various industries in Jacksonville and our region, including expansion of port operations, medical and life sciences, manufacturing as well as ecotourism. Education is a part of every conversation we have regarding quality of life and the economic viability of our city. | I would not consider any new tax or fee prior to review of the City budget, including implementation of specific strategies to improve operational efficiencies and identification of redundant tasks being handled in another local, state or federal agency. We must review department and program expenses within the budget to determine how they contribute to the goals of our City as well a better quality of life for our citizens. | I am passionate about the potential for this City and my business background and experiences provide a community-based and informed perspective to the City Council. I have always been civic-minded and worked as an advocate for small businesses. I am well versed on the issues and ready to serve our community. My attention to detail, common sense and work ethic will be an asset to our city. |
City Council At-Large Group 4 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Greg Anderson Republican | An At-Large Councilman represents all of Jacksonville. The most important issue facing our community is fiscal responsibility. It is time to get our financial house in order and to do this we need experienced leaders willing to make difficult decisions. I am the only candidate in this race with a true financial background. This experience means I will find ways to improve the City’s long-range financial planning, budgeting and management. | In addition to fiscal responsibility, I believe job growth, safe neighborhoods and better education are the issues we must address now. | The port is a major part of Jacksonville’s economic engine and I will support efforts to strengthen its competitiveness. This includes support for the correction of the Mile Point problem and a uniform depth along the shipping channel. I am not in favor of new taxes to support Downtown development. | Many of the issues facing this City Council will be financial. As a 25-year veteran of the financial services industry, my skills are uniquely suited to this challenge. I have the most experience, having served our citizens for the last four years on the TRUE Commission. I have been a lifelong Republican and a fiscal conservative. I will bring a new energy and fresh ideas to our local government. |
 Juan Diaz Republican | Laying the foundation for businesses to create more jobs by reducing taxes and regulations. We need to improve the costs and ease of doing business in Jacksonville. | We must work to support job creation. We need fiscal discipline as regards the budget, finding the necessary efficiencies, and we must work with the unions to address the pension issue. It is essential that we ensure safe neighborhoods, which support quality education and economic opportunity. Maintaining our quality of life is critical to keeping and growing Jacksonville’s tax base. | We need a strategic, long-term vision for the City, and JaxPort and Downtown are important components due to the impacts on job creation and on creating a more vibrant city. However, I would not support new taxes or fees, unless passed by public referendum vote. It’s simply a matter of City leaders developing and elucidating a plan that could garner broad support. | Residents should elect me because I’m committed to fiscal discipline and to relieving tax and regulatory burdens so that businesses can grow. I’m not beholden to the interests that have placed our City in the predicament it is in today and I can bring a fresh perspective and long-term approach to addressing issues in City Hall. I’m energetic and able to provide a bold, new leadership on the City Council. |
 Jim Robinson Republican | The single most important issue facing the City is financial stability and budget control. I am particularly focused on improving the budget process. We do not have clear and concise priorities for spending. We must have a discussion all year, not just during the three months of City Council hearings. We all do this in our families and in our businesses. We must do it in the City. | Other pressing problems facing the City include: continued im-provement in public safety, maintenance of infrastructure, restoring public trust in government and enhancing our quality of life. These issues will also require a dogged focus in order to make improvements. We can do this by being fact-based in our decision-making. We need bold leadership from our political leaders. I am committed to governing in this manner. | I believe that raising taxes or fees in our current economic environment is the wrong thing to do, both fiscally and morally. I believe through hard work of prioritizing our budget and removing redundant or unnecessary City services, we will have more resources for solving our pressing problems than we do now. Any consideration of new taxes or fees will have to pass a very stringent business case evaluation. | I want to be your next At-Large Group 4 council member. I want to serve the city I love. I have the professional and business background and experience that will contribute to sound problem-solving and decision-making on your City Council. As a civil engineer, I have been solving problems of great magnitude for 37 years. Thirty of those years have been here in Jacksonville. |
City Council At-Large Group 2 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 John Crescimbeni (incumbent) Democrat | The need for a stronger local economy through the creation of jobs and the establishment of a comprehensive economic development policy is the most important issue facing Jacksonville at this time. Expanding our port could easily help jump-start our economy. Furthermore, as a local business owner for more than 30 years, I know that reducing burdensome regulations and taxes is a good way to encourage job growth as well. | As I mentioned, repairing our economy by creating jobs is the most pressing problem we face. Another problem that needs to be addressed is restoring citizen trust in local government by eliminating wasteful spending, creating greater transparency in City government and implementing stronger rules governing ethics. We also need to continue identifying and implementing solutions to help win the war on crime without sacrificing our current level of police protection. | Not without the participation of the electorate. (I would, however, gladly support placing a local option sales tax or bond issue before the electorate, but the final decision should be made by the voters.) | As a business owner, I know how to cut costs, balance budgets and operate efficiently. As a citizen with a long history of being involved with community issues, I have the experience to champion neighborhood rights and a better quality of life. As a council member, I have the proven courage to ask the tough questions, stand up to special interests and say no to unnecessary taxes and wasteful spending. |
 Paul Martinez Republican | One of the biggest issues facing the City is the property tax rates. Jacksonville just received an 8 percent increase and the Beaches received a 24 percent increase. In a time when people are struggling to keep their houses, the last thing we want to do is raise their taxes, especially when more cuts could have been made. | We must balance the budget, get spending under control and reduce taxes. This will make a huge difference in the unemployment rate. Making our city more financially stable will make it more inviting for businesses to move here and bring jobs with them. Florida already attracts business because we don’t have an income tax, and we need to capitalize on that in our own city. | No. I’d like to see a Downtown taxing authority established so revenues generated Downtown stay there for its improvement rather than being directed elsewhere. As for the port, we need to look into more state and federal funding as well as free market solutions. The full cost of improvement has not yet been ascertained but it will undoubtedly end up costing more than projected and we just can’t afford that. | I have specific ideas about how to improve Jacksonville. For example, we can save money by consolidating some City offices, cross-training staff and moving the IT department into the 21st century. We can reduce our infant mortality, murder and suicide rates by participating in nonprofit organizations and churches that promote strong families. I have a record of leadership and I’m ready to use that experience to help Jacksonville. |
 Tom Patton Republican | As an At-Large candidate, my ‘district’ encompasses the entire city. When talking to people, the issue I hear the most about in every neighborhood is the City’s financial state. They are concerned about taxes, government spending and pensions. | Probably the most pressing problem for the City is getting people back to work. Unemployment is holding stubbornly around 11 percent in Jacksonville and we need to provide the leadership that will give businesses the confidence to start hiring again. And again, the City’s financial situation will need to be addressed. | Port improvements will be vital to improving the local economy, and being ready for the cargo, which will move through our port in the post-Panamax era, should be a priority. Downtown should be a focal point for our City and has the potential to be vibrant and thriving area. I would be open to discussing ways to make investments in these areas. | What I will bring to the At-Large Group 2 seat is a fresh approach and new ideas. I will bring openness and approachability to the office, along with a willingness to hear all aspects of an issue before making a decision. I very much look forward to the opportunity to serve Jacksonville on the City Council. |
 Vince Serrano Republican | Lack of job opportunities. The employment opportunities in Jacksonville are dismal for many of our citizens. The ripple effect of this can be devastating – increased crime, more foreclosures, lower tax revenue, etc. The City needs to provide leadership by promoting economic development. For example, regulation, permitting, zoning and code enforcement should be streamlined so that it takes less time and costs less money to get projects started and completed. | Jacksonville is projected to face a series of huge annual budget shortfalls over the next few years. The weakened economy has exacerbated our financial problems. Decreasing City expenditures by reducing services and eliminating programs won’t be enough. The citizens have spoken – “no new taxes and no new fees.” The only common sense way to dig ourselves out of this money problem is to focus efforts to rebuild a robust economy. | No! More taxes and fees are not the solution. Jacksonville will have a thriving Downtown when entrepreneurs are willing to invest. The City can encourage development by establishing a Downtown Enterprise Zone with special incentives to remove existing obstacles to private investment. Development of the port is projected to bring over 75,000 new jobs to Jacksonville. The City should work to attract all the federal and state dollars we can. | I will do what every elected official should do – listen to the people. The people have spoken very clearly: no new taxes, no new fees. They want accountability in all areas of government. They want government waste eliminated. They want the difficult issues limiting our growth and prosperity effectively addressed. My pledge to my constituents is to listen and act. |
City Council At-Large Group 1 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Steve Burnett No Party Affiliation | Running At-Large, my constituents are everybody in Duval County. The most important issue is our continued inability to live within the revenue stream voters are willing to tolerate. My campaign slogan is to fight for a ‘Bolder, Leaner’ consolidated government. City Council and especially At-Large members must show restraint in committing to new spending and seek ways to improve efficiencies with currently obligated spending, as well as a return to core government functions. | We must live within our means but also recognize government should lead and not participate in all things that are good. We currently have a government that ‘picks winners and losers’ through its bloated budget that funds so many nonprofits as well as noncore function line items. In addition, there are efficiencies that can be gained in procurement and motor pool that for some reason elude our current mayor and council. | Only if done in the form of a tax increment district or redirection of current revenue to these important areas. The port has sacrificed much of its bonding capacity on the new Asian freight terminals. We must work through that and solve funding for the port. I also am not sure all possible ideas have been looked at to keep our port as an important one on the East Coast. | I have been a participant in an advisory role in City government, so I am familiar with most of the ‘players’ and the operation of our government. More importantly, I am not looking to create a political career using the taxpayers’ money, but instead seeking to make our consolidated government ‘Bolder and Leaner.’ I am not an attorney nor have I ever sought City funding for any nonprofit that employed me. |
 Kimberly Daniels Democrat | Ensuring that our City’s government is doing all it can to encourage job creation in Jacksonville. Small businesses and startup businesses are the key to reviving this economy. A special emphasis needs to be placed on creating substantial jobs for our citizens. If our City government can’t help, then it should stay out of the way of brave people who are making a payroll and starting businesses every day. | In this stagnant economy, Jacksonville citizens are struggling to support themselves and their families. The Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) has a cryptic rate structure which punishes conservation and rewards high consumption. That’s just one example of an area which needs to be reformed and made transparent. Unfortunately, there are too many more. Our City government should be as good as the people it serves. | No. Economic growth, not tax increases, will lift Jacksonville out of this hole. Increasing taxes during a period of economic stagnation makes no sense. A Nobel Prize-winning economist once said – ‘Government spends what government receives plus as much as it can get away with.’ We need to take a long, hard look at how we are spending those hard-earned tax dollars before we ask our citizens for more. | I was born and raised in Jacksonville. As a local pastor, I come face-to-face with people who are struggling to live productive and happy lives here. Our government can’t guarantee their happiness, but we can ensure that profiteering public utilities like JEA, policies which discourage economic growth and street thugs who attempt to bully our citizens are stopped by a responsible and responsive City Council. I will do my best. |
 David A. Taylor Republican | As an At-Large candidate, I will focus on global issues facing our city. My main objective is to grow our economy and reduce government regulations currently hampering small business. | The most pressing issue we should focus on is the current economic downturn. With about 11 percent unemployment, we have to focus on ways to lure strong companies to Jacksonville by becoming the easiest city in the state to conduct business. From Downtown to JaxPort, we should ‘roll out the red carpet’ for new CEOs when they come looking for new opportunities for expansion. | It is important to look for funding solutions for future economic investment, but our citizens cannot afford any additional taxes or fees at this time. | I have a strong economic background. I’ve run several successful businesses in our community and will bring those skills to the City Council. We need business leaders leading our city. |
City Council District 14 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Kendall Bryan Jr. Republican | Public safety. This goes hand in hand with education and job opportunity. If we are not able to educate our children and show them there are opportunities for them, then all of the other issues we face are irrelevant. If we want to grow and thrive, we have to have a motivated and educated work force. Not only would that stimulate economic development, but this would decrease the crime rate. | Economic development/financial solvency, education and public safety. In order to grow as a city we have to have the right balance between these three issues. The key is education. Education improves quality of life and if we are reaching out to businesses to relocate to Jacksonville, we have to be able to provide an educated workforce if we are to compete for high-wage jobs. | The port is an enormous opportunity for success and job creation. Downtown revitalization has been a generational issue; we should try to find ways to have high-impact, low-cost projects that also change the perception of Downtown. I am philosophically opposed to tax increases. My primary underlying principle will always be to seek efficiency and savings in local government before entering into a conversation regarding an increase in taxes. | I was fortunate to be brought up in a family that has called Jacksonville home for five generations. I want to make sure that the opportunities that have made this a great city will exist for future generations. I want nothing more than to be able to pass on to my son a city that is dynamic and exciting, full of opportunities to those that are willing to work hard. |
 Jill Dame Republican | The downturn in our economy, unemployment, business closures and falling property values have all stopped the growth that historically maintained our City government budget and provided a variety of services. District 14 needs help with roads, stormwater management, park maintenance, increased code enforcement and libraries. The needs require expenditures that exceed our present ability to fund. | We must improve Jacksonville’s employment rate, make expense cuts that balance the City budget, support our education system so all children are prepared to succeed in life, address violent and property crime in neighborhoods where residents don’t feel safe and preserve the quality of life in Jacksonville by maintaining infrastructure, improving parks and libraries and protecting the St. Johns River. | We need workable strategic plans in place for improvements to the port and Downtown. The plans should demonstrate need, the value of investment and the benefit to the community. With this information in hand, a case should be made to those who would be subject to fees or taxes to obtain their support for the tax or fees. | I understand the need to involve all sectors (business, government, nonprofit) in seeking creative, long-term solutions that move our economy forward and maintain quality of life. Leaders must listen, learn, and know when action should be taken. I am a skilled leader who sees the big picture. We must bring the community together to find the best answers. I have the experience, integrity and energy to make this happen. |
 Shelton Hull No Party Affiliation | The single most important issue facing my district is public safety. Too many decent people have been hurt and until our streets are safe for working families, we can’t achieve desired levels of growth and prosperity. | The most pressing problems for the City, in general, are also public safety, as well as the financial stability of City government and its citizens. We must generate more revenue, while using what we have more efficiently. | I will personally not vote for new taxes or fees because I feel that if the City’s resources were properly applied, such hikes would be unnecessary. However, the reality is that it may be unavoidable, even though such methods barely work even in the short term. | Voters of District 14 should elect me because our political system desperately needs fresh thinking. If the old methods worked, none of our current challenges would have materialized. I have a comprehensive plan to stimulate the local economy while enhancing our national reputation and bringing in new investment. The people deserve to have me in play. |
 Jim Love Republican | With extremely high unemployment, job growth remains our most important challenge. As a 27-year small business owner and two-time Downtown Council Small Business Leader of the Year, I feel passionately that small businesses are the key to jump-starting our local economy and creating new jobs. Reducing the costs and obstacles of entrepreneurialism with lower local taxes and less regulatory burdens will help do this. | Especially in these tough economic times, the City must learn to live within its means while balancing the budget. While our local crime rate has recently fallen more than 10 percent, we must continue to reduce the murder rate that remains double the state average. Education relates directly to crime and economic development. City leaders must work together to find innovative ways to improve failing schools and raise graduation rates. | Dredging the channel to accommodate the larger post-Panamax vessels could result in over 5,000 new and good-paying jobs. If the port is not ready when they start sailing in 2014, then other ports will get these jobs. I could support a sales tax increase for port improvements if return on investment was proved and voters approved. However, Downtown improvements must be accomplished through more public/private partnerships and other means. | I am conservative and understand that controlling taxes and regulations will spur economic growth and new jobs. As a retired Naval Reserve captain who flew jets from NAS Cecil Field, I am prepared to help Jacksonville’s largest employer, the Navy, grow and add more jobs locally. As president of the Park & King Area Association I’ve shown how civic leadership and teamwork can help revitalize our neighborhoods and business districts. |
 Henry Mooneyhan Republican | District 14 is made up of older historic neighborhoods and newer sprawling suburban neighborhoods. In the historic districts, we have major issues concerning crowded streets, limited parking and infrastructure issues like poor drainage and streets with repair needs. In the suburbs, we need certain main streets widened to accommodate increased traffic brought from the recent housing boom, additional traffic lights along those main streets and public transportation expansion. | Talking to constituents around the district, the top two concerns are unemployment and the budget. The millage rates and additional fees for services performed that folks feel they are already paying for are next. Last, but not least, is crime. In certain areas of the district and city, people are concerned that there is no control over the increasing crime rate. | I would not support new taxes. I would support finding federal and state funds to improve the port. Jacksonville only retains a small percentage of the off-port jobs. Other cities and states that benefit from those jobs should participate financially. Although there are needed improvements Downtown, we have more pressing needs. We don’t need more taxes, we have enough revenue. We just need to prioritize the way we spend it. | We need representatives who have solid backgrounds in business principles. I have over 40 years of experience in business management in the transportation industry. I am not talking small business, I am talking large business. I have developed budgets and worked within those budgets. I understand how to cut spending and control the bottom line. I make tough decisions everyday and I will make the tough decisions to help turn our City around. |
 Greg “Hollea” Rachal Republican | There are a lot of issues facing the district and it is hard to single out just one situation. However, the old underground infrastructure in many of the neighborhoods is signaling failure and continues to cause drainage problems. | I feel that balancing of the City budget, City employee pension reform and the local economic divide are among top hot issues in Jacksonville. | The port is an important resource and should be cultivated as we move forward with economic development. I do not support new taxes or fees. | I am committed to providing our city with limited government, efficient management and essential accessibility. I would like to help restore confidence to the taxpayers of Duval County by providing representation that offers accountability. I am committed to improving our city and providing opportunity and growth for all. |
City Council District 13 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Danny Becton Republican | The single most important issue facing my district is improving the community’s poor economic conditions that have many households struggling as unemployment still remains high. Small businesses are still closing in record numbers as economic conditions are not improving fast enough. We must address the economic development factors that will bring jobs to our city and work with the existing businesses in helping their continued plight to survive. | The most pressing problems facing our city are: No. 1, the need for economic development and job growth. No. 2, balancing our City budget, setting priorities, living within our means and accountability for our spending. No. 3, our City employees’ pension fund growth. Our City cannot sustain the pension’s 10 percent expense and growing. This continues to place City employees at odds with the citizens of Jacksonville, which hurts morale. | I would not support any new taxes for these endeavors. However, I do believe that by re-evaluating our priorities and making tough decisions on our City finances, we can find the funds to invest into our Downtown and port in conjunction with federal, state and help from the private sector. It is important we take advantage of our port as an asset and its opportunities as an economic driver. | As a business owner and active community leader I am prepared to tackle the issues within our City – balancing budgets, establishing priorities and helping improve our economic needs. As a result of my ‘grass-roots’ campaign, I am not the establishment, nor beholden to anyone! I will be an objective, open-minded and hard-working representative in reaching the best conclusions with the citizens of my district and Jacksonville. |
 William “Bill” Gulliford Republican | The relationship between the Beach cities and the City of Jacksonville as their county. A 24 percent county property tax increase this year is a big problem, especially when compared to what other counties charge for services. Another issue is weak communications by the county, including recent ignorance of the jurisdiction of the Beach cities. Finally, there is lack of understanding of the relationship by many in the consolidated government. | Increased taxes and fees, City pensions, unemployment, wasteful spending and economic development. Also, the lack of realization that we are probably witnessing the effects of a fundamental shift in our society and economy and not just a bad recession is a concern. I believe that change will have a profound impact for future operations of our City as to its priorities and efficiencies. | I believe the port is important to economic development. I could be influenced to raise revenues IF convinced there was a measurable economic return to the people of Jacksonville AND there was no additional money available by cutting out waste. As for Downtown, first I think we need a better direction than in the past and consensus of what is the plan for the future before we talk funding. | In years past, I served as a mayor and commissioner in a municipal government and understand budgets, operations and structure. I have started, owned and operated businesses; managed people, made payrolls and tough decisions. I have been involved in charitable and civic organizations, as a leader and a follower. I understand giving back. Finally, I love Jacksonville and its people. I would like to contribute to their future. |
 Dave Smith Democrat | I cannot answer this easily because of the two-part configuration of the district. Of great concern to the Beaches is maintaining a favorable balance of taxation and services with the City, the interlocal agreement. I would like to develop a cooperative spirit while maintaining the interlocal agreement as it is. The balance of the district, Deerwood, East Baymeadows, and Bayard, have their own particular concerns, which I will also address. | No. 1, the budget. Unfunded pension obligations need continued attention for a solution. I will cut other costs like City Council salaries, reduced by 5 percent, and members not vested in their pensions until after eight service years. Some Assistant Management Improvement Officers should be eliminated. No. 2, cultural priorities like giving away $4 million from our share of stadium naming was followed by a proposal to cut library hours. | While I will work to prevent this, the honest answer to this is, it seems unavoidable. The river must be dredged, costing $200 million-plus. Improve Downtown by coordinating the good elements we have. Use economical transportation solutions such as a trolley service, bike paths, walking tours, linking the costly ‘people mover’ with Metropolitan Park and the Landing. Encourage galleries, museums, and entertainment venues along the route. | My background is ideal for a council member who will play a leadership role. I grew up in a community of scientists and engineers. I have known adults and children from around the world in my teaching career. We will lag economically if we cannot overcome a past of provincialism, prejudice, narrow-mindedness, cultural stereotypes and political labels. With use of my talents and ideas, we will have a great future. |
 Vanessa Williams Republican | Jacksonville’s budget crisis. As someone who has worked for the City, I know there are many examples of waste and duplicative services throughout. First, we need to address and get a handle on the pension issue. We need to find a good compromise that will reward those who serve our City, but in a way that doesn’t bankrupt us. We cannot continue to increase taxes and fees on our citizens. | The recession has hit Jacksonville hard. We need to increase the tax base and we can do that by making job creation the No. 1 priority in this City. We can do this by making it easier to do business in Jacksonville. By reducing fees and regulations, small business owners will be empowered to spend more of their own money on growing their business – thus, leading to job creation. | No, I would not. Jacksonville’s Downtown is important, but we cannot also forget about the Beaches and other areas of town that play a role in our economic growth. We, as a City, need to aggressively lobby our congressional delegation and our legislative delegation for as much financial support as possible for the important project of deepening our port. | I am running for City Council because I want to give back to the community that has been so good to me and my family. I learned the importance of community service through my family and from my mentor, the late U.S. Rep. Tillie Fowler, who I had the privilege of working for during my college years. I am passionate about making our local government leaner and reducing the tax burden. |
City Council District 12 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Joe Andrews Republican | Without having polled residents I will have to answer from my own perspective. I believe the “culture of spending” adopted by this and previous City governments along with commensurate taxation imposed to support it has placed my district and others under undue economic stress. Repeated removal of resources from the local economy starves productive and consumptive capacities. That’s why local unemployment rates are 2 or 3 points higher than the national average. | While most candidates will give you a a laundry list of hot topic issues, I see it differently. The City must face and resolve the problem I stated in the first answer. If the City would restrict its spending to the proper core functions of government as described in Economic Literature on Public Goods, it would enhance productive capacity and lead to an elevated standard of living. | I would not. The port is a multibillion dollar enterprise that does not directly contribute to the revenue of the city (as does the JEA). The port should be able to support its own improvements (including expansion and dredging) from its cash flow, just as private enterprise is required, while trying to make a profit. Downtown improvement shouldn’t be a City/tax funded effort. The City should, however, play a facilitator role. | Because instead of raising taxes, spending money unwisely, building monuments and “going along to get along,” I would be working to resolve the aforementioned problems in a systematic and economically sound way, both in the short term and the long term. Government, as we have known it, is not an ideal model. It needs improvement. More of the same does not constitute improvement. |
 Doyle Carter Republican | There are times when the main issue facing a district is quite different than other areas of the city. At this time, the most significant issue facing District 12 is the same of the entire city: surviving in this difficult economy. | Facing the City is the challenge to maintain a fiscally stable budget that provides for core services without raising the tax burden on our citizens. In these difficult times, we must provide stability for our citizens to be able to maintain their homes and provide for their families. We must grow our tax base expanding our job market, especially in the area of the port and our medical industry. | I would support placing the option on the ballot for the citizens to decide whether they would support any new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown. | I believe district constituents should elect me because I have a proven track record of being accessible and responsive to the needs of the voters in District 12. I know the issues and I have the history of getting things done. Nobody will work harder to represent the citizens of District 12 than me. |
 Jim Davis Republican | The economy: jobs, taxes and City fees are the hot-button issues. | Poor leadership. From spending to taxation to the recent polling data that showed only 24 percent of Jacksonville residents believe the City understands their situation or relates with who they are as a people. | Absolutely not. The people of the 12th District are overburdened with the cost of City leaders and their “visions for the future.” The people on the Westside want the economy to turn around, they want their neighbors to keep their homes and they want the City leadership to stop pretending that isn’t the case. | I’ve met, listened to and brought back the concerns of the people of the 12th District to the Republican Party, the mayor and the City Council. After standing for their conservative ideas, it’s now time to stand with them in the City Council with enough boldness to tap my knuckles on the desk and proclaim “enough is enough,” which is exactly the perspective of the voters in the 12th District. |
City Council District 11 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
Tom Baine, a Republican candidate for District 11, did not respond to e-mails or phone calls requesting his participation.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Ray Holt (incumbent) Republican | There are many issues: buffering residential and industrial properties, providing for needed road and park improvements and fixing drainage problems, but my district is no different than any other when it comes to jobs. The best thing I can do for my district is truly getting our local economy back on track, our unemployment rate down, vacancy and foreclosure rates down and property values up. | Bringing new business to Jacksonville is job one. The biggest problem we face –- pension reform. We must scale back our benefit packages to a point that they are still competitive but sustainable. That will mean changes to the DROP plan and a minimum age before retirement benefits can be collected. We need to reduce our obligations over the next 30 years by $1 billion. | I think our port is such a job producer that investments in it, even if it means raising additional revenue, will come back to us tenfold. To allow the opportunity we have, to be the first Post Panamax port on the East Coast, to pass on to Savannah or Charleston, would be a huge failure. | Because I’ve proven myself to be responsible in land use decisions, fiscally conservative, even when criticized for not “bringing home the bacon,” and I have worked with constituents to come up with solutions to problems facing the district, like drainage problems, public safety problems, code enforcement issues and improper tax bills. I have put my heart and soul in this job for 3 1/2 years and accomplished a lot for constituents. |
 Doug Moore Republican | The people want the First Coast Pool; this project has been funded for over four years and stalled by the incumbent. If elected, I will see that this project is carried through and the money available will be used in an effective, cost-efficient way. It will be built to handle national meets, which will boost the local economy and create income to offset overhead cost. | Budget, jobs. | I believe in our current economic environment, residents and businesses cannot afford higher taxes or fees. We must maintain our most important and basic services while holding the line on unnecessary spending. It should be self-supporting. | I will represent the people with an open-door policy, working for the people not the government. I will work to lower taxes, create jobs and make our city a place to be proud to live, raise our children and grandchildren. Being the largest district covering over one-third of the county, the needs of the district are very diverse. I will strive to see that no one is forgotten. |
City Council District 7 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Johnny A. Gaffney (incumbent) Democrat | The single most important issue facing District 7 is jobs. To improve the quality of life of the residents of District 7, the City of Jacksonville needs to continue to emphasize economic development to increase jobs! The City must continue to emphasize aesthetic improvements and focus on improving communication between police and residents, increasing homeownership and giving young people more constructive things to do with their time. | Public safety, education and economic development is paramount if the city is to flourish and grow. The mayor and City Council must exercise financial and fiscal accountability by resolving the City financial and budget issues. We must continue to make improvements in our neighborhoods to increase property values, which ultimately will bring more revenue through higher property values and jobs. Lastly, education is a top priority! | I am not interested in raising taxes; however, after consulting, polling and engaging my constituents to solicit their input, I will be willing to consider raising taxes with their endorsement if it is going to be beneficial to the people and community that I serve. | As a banking executive, professor and past owner of a mortgage bank, I know finance, I understand budgets, and I am pro-business. My constituents should elect me because I have demonstrated my willingness to stand up for the people and to listen on issues before the City Council and in the community. As a councilman, we have accomplished an unprecedented amount of accomplishments and projects over my first term. |
 Marc McCullough Democrat | Jobs! If we don’t bring more jobs to the community we are setting ourselves up for future failure! | Crime is running rampant through our city and until we address this issue from the bottom up we will still have this problem! | I’m not going to support any new taxes, other than an additional one-cent sales tax so that everyone can pay their fair share throughout the city. We need to support the port to create high-paying jobs! Downtown needs help but more taxes and fees are not the answer. | I’m from this community born and raised! I know what this community is going through and I’m willing to do the work to fix it! God wrote my lesson plans, now it’s time for me to teach what I’ve learned! I’m not running for a political seat, I’m applying for a job because there is work to be done! |
City Council District 6 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Matt Schellenberg Republican | Mandarin is suffering from the same problems as all of Jacksonville. City Council spent at an unsustainable level for too long and is incapable of making fiscally responsible decisions. Raising taxes and fees was the wrong decision. More cuts are necessary. When pressed to do this, the council answered that they had done the best they could. That answer is unacceptable. I am ready to make the tough decisions. | In addition to the problems mentioned, we face other issues as well. There are too many burdens put on new development. From impact fees to burdensome regulations, we need to lift these barriers to commerce and growth. | The revitalization of Downtown is extremely important. And getting JaxPort Panamac ready is supremely important and must be done. At this time, I am unprepared to support new taxes or fees to pay for these projects. Trust between City government and its people is broken and must be restored. People are suffering under these tough economic times and higher taxes. I’m not going to raise their taxes even more. | I vow to stick to the promises I make to the voters of Mandarin. Our current leaders have broken the promises they made to us. I will never forget I am a servant of the citizens of Mandarin. I represent them. I am their voice Downtown. I will consider myself a success if people remember me for nothing else than being honest, trustworthy and always serving with the highest integrity. |
 John D. “Jack” Webb (incumbent) Republican | Given the state of the economy as of late, the most important issue facing my district, as is in all districts, is economic development and job growth. Continued emphasis on port development and relaxation of growth-constricting assessments is key. Close on the heels of economic development in District 6 is consistent focus on maintaining and improving our quality of life through continued parks improvements and access to our waterways. | The single most pressing problem facing the City is the continued challenge of enacting a balanced budget in times of decreasing property values while continuing to repair and properly fund pension obligations and providing services to constituents. | I support investment in port infrastructure and understand the need for Downtown redevelopment. The funding mechanism for such redevelopment should be self-generating and self-sufficient. | My district constituents should re-elect me because I am committed to remaining a passionate, independent advocate on behalf of the needs of all of my constituents. |
 Greg Youngblood Republican | The drain on personal and business resources from an overextended, overspending, overbloated, overreaching, underperforming government. We must reduce the burden and increase the opportunities for future generations. Those who have the valor to challenge the norm will bring hope to our children. We must get our financial house in order or be prepared to apologize to our kids for a lack of leadership. | Budget woes and financial chaos because of the overspending, overpromising and overreaching of government. 1. Pension payments are ex-pected to exceed $264 million per annum (mayor’s office estimate) if not adjusted soon. 2. Some high salaries. One Human Resources position now pays $242,000. 3. Like many other permits, 13 agencies review pond permit applications. Some of those agencies are duplicating the same efforts and should be merged or eliminated. | No. We currently have too many taxes and fees. As well, we cannot operate as a split-personality government. With one hand, doling out cash and incentives to bring new businesses here, while with the other hand, taxing/fee businesses that are already here and loyal to our city. We must have a level playing field that is attractive to business and will provide greater hope and opportunity for future generations. | Our current leadership has increased debt, taxes and fees and given away our money. Our community deserves better. With a proven record of reducing government, business experience, respect for and adherence to our Constitution and Charter, www.voteyoungblood.com, I respectfully request your vote. Greg Youngblood 904-349-7273 Please visit www.voteyoungblood.com. |
City Council District 5 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Lori Boyer Republican | Protecting our neighborhoods and preserving the value of our homes. Crime, abandoned properties, inappropriate land use changes, excessive traffic, poorly maintained streets and drainage and polluted creeks diminish our quality of life and threaten to further reduce values. I have a track record of working on exactly these issues and pledge to work throughout the district to make our neighborhoods better and our property values secure. | Controlling the cost and size of our government and rebuilding our economy and job market. We must keep taxes low and streamline government regulations to encourage job growth; and establish budget priorities, address payroll and pension costs, eliminate waste, and require greater accountability. We cannot borrow against our future, nor handicap it by being shortsighted. Then, we must put our collective energy behind a cohesive vision for our future. | No. Both are important and will positively impact our economy and job market in the future. I would work to find private and public financing alternatives and support public/private partnerships and regulatory incentives. However, with current unemployment rates and salary cuts widespread, I would not support an ad valorem increase or generally applicable fees that would further burden so many who are struggling to make ends meet. | I have proven my commitment to Jacksonville by 20 years of volunteer service on countless community projects (Eve Award finalist). A district resident since 1987, I have never run for office, have no political career objectives, nor will my business gain from my service. My education, legal and business experience in contracts, finance, and real estate will be invaluable in addressing the budget, economic development and land use issues. |
 Jack Daniels Republican | Electing a councilman who hasn’t taken campaign money from businessmen and businessmen represented by lobbyists who do business with the City. They want the City to increase taxes and fees, so that the City will have sufficient money (our taxes) to pay them for their services. The businessmen/lobbyists only give money to candidates who they are convinced will respond to their needs over those of the residents of the district. | Mayor Peyton’s irresponsible policy of tax and spend for City government. To pay for his wasteful spending, he has increased our taxes and imposed fees on us. To solve this problem, I want to work with responsible councilmen to install in City government a fiscal conservative policy of operation. This policy of fiscal conservation would stop the wasteful spending of our taxes and make unnecessary tax increases and the imposition of fees. | No. | 1. I want to stop increases in taxes and fees; I want to stop wasteful City spending. 2. I have refused to accept any money from businessmen/lobbyists. So I won’t be obligated to respond to their needs over those of the residents of District 5. 3. I’m the only candidate for City Council District 5 who does not have a business and who is retired. I’m 61. I won’t use my position to increase my business. |
 Steve Hyers Republican | Jobs. The federal government has doubled our national debt in two years from $7 trillion to $14.3 trillion. This hasn’t happened since World War II. Locally we’ve unfortunately done some of the same. If you effectively double utility rates over two years (JEA), double the garbage tax and raise property taxes – in a recession – you’re violating basic economic principles and retarding the recovery of the economy. | Overspending in the public sector, that is demanding a reallocation/redistribution from the private sector that would otherwise create jobs if those dollars were left in the taxpayers hands, crime and adequate enforcement of the law at the judicial level in some cases, bringing in the right types of industries (more manufacturing). We’ve been a service and finance hub over the last couple of decades. It’s served us well during that time. Not in this recession. | No. | I’m a financial planner with many years experience, that is the only candidate that has built a successful business (you can see, feel and touch my business through an actual front door and approximately 1,000 clients). I’m the only candidate that has a business listed in the phone book. The characteristics needed to do this in the privtate sector are the same characteristics required in the public sector. |
 Robert “Fritz” VanVolkenburgh Republican | I believe that the weakened economy is currently the single most important issue. The lack of jobs and the scarcity of high-paying jobs is a large part of the problem. Business owners are struggling to stay afloat and they lack sufficient confidence in the market to begin hiring again. Many residents, particularly those on fixed incomes, are being stretched thin due to higher taxes, fees and energy rates. | The most pressing problems include the City’s budget (and pensions as a subset of this), a shrinking tax base due to a soft economy and weak real estate market and an education system that is subpar, as reflected in the low graduation rate. Other pressing problems include violent crime and theft, the health of the St. Johns River, the future of Downtown, and port development. | This is a tough time to be burdening residents with additional taxes. However, I am not opposed to letting the people vote on a half-cent sales tax for port development and infrastructure. Personally, I am not yet convinced that such a measure would create a return on investment. Additional hotel taxes might be directed to Downtown progress, but creative management of City properties would have a better effect. | I have experience working with multibillion-dollar budgets, specifically as a management consultant engaged in large merger and acquisition activities. I have Fortune 500 experience in operations, financial planning, regulatory, legal and pensions. As a former prosecutor, I understand how crime affects our neighborhoods. I was a teacher. Finally, I know my district well, as I have walked over 90 percent of it, and have met with over 3,800 residents. |
City Council District 3 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Richard Clark (incumbent) Republican | The impact of the economy. The City continues to increase the burden on the taxpayer while people are struggling. We need to decrease the burden on business and individuals so that the businesses in our city can begin to grow and hire again. The people in District 3 and Jacksonville need to be able to get back to work. | The growth of our government at the expense of the taxpayer. We must reduce the size of our City government and live within our means. We need to make Jacksonville the best place to start, own and operate a business so that we can get our citizens back to work. | The only way I would support any increase is if it were put on a ballot for the taxpayers to decide. | I originally ran for office on a platform of conservative leadership. I have voted that way consistently. I voted against all three fees and both property tax increases. I offered cuts to the budget that would have saved tens of millions of dollars, but they were rejected. I run a small business and understand the sacrifices that are necessary in today’s economy; because, like everyone else in our city, I have had to sacrifice both in my business and in my home. |
 Mario Rubio Republican | The increase in taxes. | Increased taxes and spending, crime and safety and the economy and jobs. | Only if approved by the voters. | I believe our best years are ahead of us if we make the right decisions. I believe that my business experience and my community involvement places me in a unique position to make the right decisions to create an environment that stimulates economic growth, reduce taxes and improve the quality of life for all of our citizens. |
City Council District 2 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses. Candidates were given a word limit. Responses that exceeded it are edited for space.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Bill Bishop (incumbent) Republican | There are several, but the biggest is high taxes at all levels of government along with the low perception of value received for taxes paid and the economy in general. High unemployment, loss of jobs, underwater mortgages, home foreclosures affecting neighborhood quality are related effects. | The economy in general and more specifically unemployment, the state of our public education system, the long-term economic health of the City and school board, and funding our current and future transportation needs. | It would take more than 70 words to outline what Downtown needs to thrive. Suffice it to say, it does not need new taxes or fees. There is already a tax increment district in place. Regarding the port, if new taxes or fees are desired, the case needs to be made to voters why it is in their best interest. In our economic climate, I am not inclined to vote for new taxes or fees. | As an architect, I understand what it takes to plan a functioning city and how to balance economic development and neighborhood protections for the mutual benefit of both. Businesses and neighborhoods need each other in order to thrive. |
 Stephen Heckel Republican | The people of District 2 are facing alarmingly high foreclosure rates and an 11 percent unemployment rate. Increasing taxes and fees only made the situation worse. As the foreclosure rates rise, home values decline. We must stop tax and fee increases and work toward creating jobs. | Spending/Budget. I propose cutting the council budget by 15 percent and ending pensions for council members. We should modernize technology at City Hall and streamline departments. Today’s technology enables fewer people to do more, which means council members could share assistants. City accounting and budgeting systems should be easily accessible, like an online checkbook register. Additionally, we could save $3 million per year just by ending the Skyway project. | The port is vital to Jacksonville’s future, and we must do everything we can to expand it. However, the City has yet to prove it can plan or manage such a major project. The port’s initial estimated cost is $1.4 billion, but it will undoubtedly be higher and we can’t afford another courthouse-like fiasco. Duval taxpayers can’t afford to spend $2.8 billion on improving the port. | Because I’m one of them. I’ve lived in the district for almost 20 years, and I’m just as frustrated as they are with the state of the district and the City. I know firsthand the issues we face, and I know they’ve not been resolved. I got tired of waiting around for someone to stand up for District 2, and that’s why I’m running. |
City Council District 1 candidates say...
As a reader service, the Daily Record plans to present daily information about candidates on the ballot in the spring election. The information is scheduled to be published in advance of early voting, which begins March 7 in Duval County. The Daily Record sent the same questions to council candidates and will publish their e-mailed responses, edited for space if necessary. Today’s first report covers candidates for City Council District 1.
| The candidates say... | What is the single most important issue facing your district? | What are the most pressing problems facing the City? | Would you support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown? | Why should district constituents elect you? |
 Lindsey Brock Republican | Reinvestment. Our district needs vision, passion and leadership to make it a priority at City Hall – reinvest in Arlington. I will build a consensus to create an environment in the Arlington area where neighborhoods thrive, businesses return, develop, take root and grow. Public-private partnerships can promote small businesses as members of the community, working with residents to foster strong vibrant crime-free neighborhoods. | Economic development is needed in the areas of transportation, medical, financial services, and eco-tourism to bring higher-paying jobs and to complement Jacksonville’s existing business culture. Downtown revitalization needs a strong vision and implementing agency. Fiscal responsibility and accountability in the City budget, including consolidation of the administration of government. Reducing redundancies, compressing management and overall increases in efficiencies will lead to substantial savings for the taxpayers. | Only with taxpayer support. We can prioritize and leverage the resources on hand to achieve most goals in these areas. I could only support new taxes or fees if supported by the citizens, much like they did in the River City Renaissance and Better Jacksonville initiatives. When citizens are presented a clear compelling vision for investment of new tax dollars they generally support the decision to invest in their community. | Lindsey Brock will make the Arlington area a priority at City Hall. I grew up here, graduated from Terry Parker, and my wife, Carol, and I are raising our children here. I have the vision, passion and leadership to make Arlington a thriving community with families and corner shopping spots. It takes experience and maturity to build a consensus. Arlington needs that kind of a champion on the City Council. |
 Darryl Fleming Democrat | Aside from keeping Craig Airport the way it is with no changes, the single most important issue facing District 1 is the cost of utilities. The way utility costs keep rising. | The City budget is a major concern facing City administrators. City officials need to take a hard look at expenditures and revenue generation. Government pension reform will need to be addressed. Next, I would say job creation and job security. What can the City do to stimulate jobs and how do we keep people working. I round out my top City pressing problems with public safety. | No. I do not support new taxes or fees to improve the port and/or Downtown. Jacksonville’s administration drafted the Blueprint for Prosperity document several years ago that citizens supported raising taxes to do just that, improve Jacksonville. If this plan is not working citizens need to know what is broke, where is the tax money going and how do we fix it. | Constituents should elect me to represent them because I will do just that – represent them. I will be a true servant of the people. I’m a former U.S. Marine Corps Officer and Boy Scout Professional. I bring values based on principles of honor, courage, commitment, service to others and the planet. I bring leadership, trust and confidence. I bring no promises, just life experiences and a passion to better our community. |
 Clay Yarborough Republican | In addition to the ever-present need for a safe community, business investment is needed in the Arlington area. | Two main concerns are rising taxes/fees and the unemployment rate at over 10 percent. | When a number of Jacksonville taxpayers cannot afford current taxes/fees, now is not the time to consider burdening them with new ones. City government needs to learn to live within its means. Unnecessary and wasteful spending should be removed from the City budget and taxes/fees should be reduced as a means of incentivizing current business to grow and new business to come. Taxpayer dollars have been spent for years Downtown, yet many challenges remain. | I would like to serve a second term so that I may continue being responsive to Arlington constituents, challenging the City to reduce unnecessary spending and operate in a fiscally responsible way, cultivating the current relationship with the Sheriff’s Office to make our city safer, and helping to attract needed investment to District 1 and the city as a whole. |