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1B PALATKA DAILY NEWS • SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 , 2020
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Putnam CountyQ & A
MEET THE CANDIDATES
Questions and Answers with Candidates
from contested races for local, state and congressional offices in the
August 18 primary election
2B PALATKA DAILY NEWS • SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 , 2020
Meet the Candidates
Palatka Daily News
The Palatka Daily News presents on this and the following pages the positions of candidates in races with more than one contestant for the Aug. 18 primary.
Questions composed by the Daily News news department were sent to each candidate with a deadline to respond for inclusion in this special publication.
All candidates who responded are represented. Candidates who are the only one qualified for their political party or only one running in non-partisan races are not included here.
Instructions sent with the questionnaires were for candidate responses to be 100 words or less for each question. In those cases when a candi-date responded with more, the reply was edited to comply with length requirements while keeping
the gist of that response intact.Races included are: n P ut n am C ou nt y B o ard of C ou nt y
Commissioners, Districts 3 and 5n City of Palatka Commissioner, Group 3n Putnam County Clerk of Circuit Court and
Comptroller n Putnam County Property Appraisern United States Congress, District 3
This publication does not include Q&A with candidates for public defender or circuit court judge.
Races that are for the general election only are also not part of this publication.
The Palatka Daily News urges readers to exam-ine each candidate’s responses, check their record and be sure to vote on or before Aug. 18 and again on or before Nov. 3.
Putnam County primary election candidate Q&A
Putnam County Board of Commissioners, District 3Q: How do you plan to main-
tain the relationship between your office and the Putnam C o u n t y C h a m b e r o f Commerce?
Rhonda Drackett – R: As our primary conduit of pro-moting commerce, I will meet with the staff and become familiar with their mission, vision, and operations. I look forward to working as a team to help them achieve our collec-tive goals for the betterment of Putnam County.
Larry Masters – R: I would like to establish an even better relationship. The chamber is a large asset to promote our
county and have businesses to meet and exchange ideas to make our county prosper.
Terry Turner – R: As a past Chairman of the Chamber of C om m e rc e , I k n ow h ow important it is to keep a solid relationship with the Chamber. This year as the Chairman of the BOCC, I have been able to attend the monthly board meet-ings at the Chamber to keep a good line of communication open with them as liaison to the B o a r d o f C o u n t y Commissioners.
Q: What are your goals as a commissioner?
Drackett: First and foremost, I will work diligently to foster a team approach with my fellow commissioners. I will listen to the citizens and bring forth their issues to the Board for consideration and action. Operationally, I will work with the Board and staff to establish and implement a strategic plan as our roadmap with clear direction, towards a more pros-perous Putnam County.
Masters: To repair the roads that are in rough shape first before we pave new roads and not base it on family and
friends. Our first responders and school buses are being abused by our lack of maintain-ing our roads. Second would be stop allowing other counties to dump their garbage in our landfill. We have alternatives to reduce our landfill fees by not taking in other counties’ gar-bage.
Turner: Number one is help-ing citizens with issues in our county. The next most import-ant thing would be to keep taxes low while passing a balanced budget without using reserves to do it. We have twice and will again this year. Work further to improve efficiency on the mow-ing and grading of our roads. Continue to maximize spend-ing Better Place funds for better roads. Make the county easier for quality businesses to locate in Putnam County while work-ing to keep our small county atmosphere. We are updating the Compressive Plan with the intent of doing that.
Q: How would you consider residents’ opinions when mak-ing a decision?
Drackett: I’m running on the slogan, “Your Voice, Your Choice” for a reason. I truly believe that a Commissioner should represent their constitu-ents in all matters concerning the county’s operations. Via email, social media and face-to-face discussions, my fellow citi-zens are sharing with me issues of utmost importance to them. This includes improvements in the operational areas of Animal Services and Building and Zoning. But also included are issues of transparency, the need for improved fire/rescue ser-vices, jobs with competitive sal-aries and the development of affordable housing.
Masters: Night-time meet-
ings would gain more input. It should be the will of the com-munity not a commissioner done alone to make decisions that affect our county. It is important to me to be honest and transparent.
Turner: Hearing the opin-ions of our citizens is the first priority in all decisions. Several of our most important deci-sions have been extended so we could hear more from the pub-l i c o n t h a t i s s u e . T h e Commission before COVID had started town hall meetings at night to hear from the citi-zens that could not attend day meetings with their issues. I look forward to being able to return to those meetings.
Q: What is your stance on requiring mask-wearing at indoor businesses and in public places?
Drackett: I support and fol-low the governor’s orders and recommendations and encour-age citizens to help protect themselves and others from this pandemic.
Masters: My personal opin-ion is if you feel sick you should stay home or wear a mask. The government does not have the legal right according to our Constitution to force businesses to close or make them wear masks. Many companies and employees are out of jobs yet have not received compensa-tion due to a mandatory clos-ing.
We need to have faith in the citizens of the country and county that they will do the right thing without being forced to.
Turner: I think it should be up to the freedom of the busi-ness or individual to decide what’s best for them and not mandated by the government.
Q: What is your position in the debate about whether to remove the Confederate monu-ment and Maltby Oak from the Putnam County Courthouse lawn?
Drackett: About the Maltby Oak, this tree has nothing to do with the subject of slavery or oppression of any people and as such should not be lumped in w i t h t h e i s s u e o f t h e C on fe d e r ate m onu m e nt . About the monument, I believe that it belongs to the citizens of Putnam County and as such I will listen to their desire and vote accordingly.
Masters: The few should not dictate our course of action. The reason I say that is where does it end? Do we take down all monuments and statues or just leave up a select few and how would that be fair? In our history we made mistakes, yet we need to learn from them and not erase history.
Turner: I do not support the monument being destroyed or removing the Maltby Oak.
Q: How will you manage civility and professionalism with your fellow commissioners when debating hot-button top-ics?
Drackett: Let me start by sharing that I believe debates are a healthy means whereby we share thoughts and opinions. Unfortunately, I’ve witnessed the lack of civility and the unprofessionalism which you refer to in this question. This is one of the many reasons why I have decided to run for office. The citizens of Putnam County deserve to be represented by a Commissioner who will keep an open mind in all matters, maintain high ethical standards and separate their emotions from their responsibilities, and
last but not least, offer a wom-an’s point of view.
Masters: As a police chaplain it is important to remain respectful and civil even if you disagree and arguments should be based on facts not emotions.
Turner: I think the commis-sion has made large strides this year on this issue. When a com-missioner treats the other com-missioners and staf f with respect, even when they ada-mantly disagree on an issue, we can finish the issue in an order-ly manner and move on to other issues that we do agree on. There are far more issues that we agree on than not.
Q: How would you help fos-ter the relationship between the county and local municipali-ties?
Drackett: I believe that the County should continually strive to improve communica-tions, on all levels, which leads to higher levels of collaboration and cooperation. I will pro-mote a joint effort to ensure that we, the County and munic-ipalities are working jointly, communicating, and pursuing broader goals together that benefit all our citizens.
Masters: Communication is the key. If possible, we should have a liaison person to com-municate the needs and wants from both sides, and then once a month, get a plan together to benefit everyone in our county and local municipalities.
Turner: The relationship between the county and our municipalities is extremely important and must be worked on constantly under the context that whatever we may disagree on today there will be an issue in the future that we will cham-pion together for all our citi-zens.
Rhonda Drackett
Larry Masters
Terry Turner
Putnam County Board of Commissioners, District 5Q: How do you plan to main-
tain the relationship between your office and the Putnam C o u n t y C h a m b e r o f Commerce?
Paul Adamczyk – R: They are an important part of our community. It should be an arms-length relationship, work-ing towards business growth and employment growth. Partnering in mutual goals as agreed upon for the benefit of residents and businesses is important.
Open doors for one another and listening ears are needed with all organizations in our community. In regards to the current Tourism and Economic Development relationship with the County, a wholesale review is needed. It needs to be updat-ed, and a change in venue is warranted, as equitable results as it stands have not been achieved for many in our com-munity.
Mike Barican – R: I would propose having regular meet-ings in order to keep up with current business of the cham-ber.
It is important that the coun-ty knows what prospects are interested in our community so
that we can help facilitate growth.
Buddy Goddard – R: My relationship with the chamber has never been better. The chamber is a huge asset to our county. The staff consistently takes calls from prospective businesses as they continue to market and attract prospects. I am excited to lend my support to their efforts as one of my pri-orities is to help grow the econ-omy.
Walton Pellicer –R: The B o a r d o f C o u n t y Commissioners has a represen-tative who serves as the liaison between the two bodies. Our direction and theirs is known to
each other through this repre-sentative. I do want to work with the Office of Economic Development to attract new businesses to our County. This office has been very successful in the past couple of years and we need to support the eco-nomic growth of our county.
Q: What are your goals as a commissioner?
Adamczyk: We need to get back to doing the basics well. All first responders, proactive maintenance of existing infra-structure, and overall public safety need to be our priorities. We need to work to drive the millage rate down to what it was eight years ago, around 8.5, to protect us during economic downturns.
Budgeting needs to be for more than one year, including all expenditure and income projections for one, two, five and 10 years with regular review and updates. We need a fully transparent, available gov-ernment which has to include an independent inspector gen-eral, and evening meetings to drive participation.
Barican: To motivate citizen involvement, invest in the future of Putnam, to keep a pos-itive outlook and engage in
community partnerships.Goddard: I desire to do
everything that I can to help Putnam County keep the momentum that the board has established and see some of the plans through fruition. With over 3,800 building permits pulled in Putnam County this year alone, we are growing. My priorities are to lower taxes and fees, dedicate more Better Place Plan funds to improve roads, continue to build our reserve funds, and continue my plan to sell surplus county property back to the public and use this money to abate nuisance build-ings on other properties. I would also like to get the animal shelter built.
Pellicer: To work with the other Commissioners to better the quality of life in Putnam County. We need to work with and take advantage of our resources working toward posi-tive growth and bringing jobs to Putnam County.
Q: How would you consider
residents’ opinions when mak-ing a decision?
Adamczyk: We need to be focused on service. The opin-ions, priorities, and best inter-ests of every resident need con-sideration with every decision made. We need to drive citizen participation as a board, as well as individually. We need to be fully transparent, meeting on their terms, with a mix of eve-ning and community-located meetings.
We need to regain resident trust and establish a means for review on items in question by an independent of f ice of inspector general, as suggested during audits from the state as well as by current Clerk of Courts Tim Smith during sev-eral budget requests.
Barican: Being a commis-sioner means being a public servant. Hearing input from residents will allow me to approach county issues from different perspectives.
It is important to consider many views before making a decision.
Goddard: I would continue to gather information from citi-zens and exhaust resources in each decision that I make for the betterment of Putnam County. I like to have all points of views on the table to help cre-ate the best outcome for our county.
Pellicer: I am committed to answering all phone calls to my office.
First to listen, and try to understand the point of view being presented and then what direction can be taken to work with the issue.
Decisions need to be made so in five to ten years we are not repeating the same actions.
Decisions need to be made to benefit the entire county.
Q: What is your stance on requiring mask-wearing at indoor businesses and in public places?
Adamczyk: The government at all levels should supply sound advice as laid out by profession-als, along with accurate, and timely data, not portrayed in a manner to tell any story. All questions from residents should be answered. From this every individual and business should make their own decisions on how they want to open, where they wish to go, and how they would like to do so. This would include businesses deciding they would not allow patrons without masks, as well as patrons deciding to only utilize businesses who require masks,
and vice versa. Barican: I personally do not
feel comfortable wearing a mask; however, I do it for oth-ers. The thought of me poten-tially infecting someone or passing the virus is a burden that I do not want to carry. I think about my elderly mother and premature granddaughter and remember that it’s not about me.
Goddard: The governor has set the standards in Florida and I support that decision as well as the rights that citizens will make in protecting their self and their families.
Pellicer : It’s a personal choice. I will wear one if asked or required.
Q: What is your position in the debate about whether to remove the Confederate monu-ment and Maltby Oak from the Putnam County Courthouse lawn?
Adamczyk: Our history has different meanings to each of us. We cannot allow for revi-sionist history, nor activist groups from any side or belief to determine the importance of things in our landscape based upon their personal views alone. I would have been a sec-ond on putting this item to the people by way of a ballot initia-tive in the general election. The silence was a let down by this commission for everyone.
We need to work on finding c o m m o n a l i t y, n o t d i v i -sion. Going all the way back to the beginning in Genesis 1:1, if needed.
Barican: I understand both sides of the argument; however, I do not feel as if five people (commissioners) should make that sort of decision alone since
Paul Adamczyk
Mike Barican
Buddy Goddard
Walton Pellicer
See DISTRICT 5, Page 3B
3B PALATKA DAILY NEWS • SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 , 2020
GOALS AND ACTION PLAN FOR PUTNAM COUNTY• Save our landfi ll from taking in garbage from other counties• Smart growth - preserve our heritage and our natural resources• A plan to retain and make our fi refi ghters and EMTs jobs manageable• Move our animal control completely out of the dump and give more support to their mission• Our roads and bridges have needed attention far too long as they have been neglected• Transparent commissioner - no pay for play; I believe in term limits• Encourage more community involvement through night meetings• I will be a commissioner who will bring harmony and respect back to the offi ce• Limit tax and fees by encouraging a high-end retirement community• Create jobs by allowing businesses to come to Putnam County
VOTE
Care about Putnam County?Vote Larry Masters.
[email protected] • 386-972-4172 • Facebook - Masters CampaignPAID FOR AND APPROVED BY LARRY MASTERS, REPUBLICAN, FOR PUTNAM COUNTY COMMISSION, DISTRICT 3
“ Before we pave new roads, we need to � x the road that are in need of repair and not based on friends and family.”
Larry Masters your honest and transparent next commissioner.
Meet the Candidates
taxpayers’ dollars could possi-bly be used to fund the reloca-tion. I believe that the decision for the monument should be on a ballot for the citizens to vote. My position on the Maltby Oak is that is should remain as a memory of a dedicated citizen’s labor of love.
Goddard: I do not think that five commissioners should decide the outcome of this sen-sitive topic. When it is deemed safe, I would like to have town hall meetings so that the public can voice their views so that a future decision can be made. The input I have received thus
far is overwhelming to leave it where it is.
History was not created in a day and I feel that careful thought and consideration needs to be made without mak-ing a hasty decision.
Pellicer: The current com-mission should have this issue handled before the election in November. I (and we all should) honor all veterans who have served in the services and never forget our history. We do not wish to repeat history.
Q: How will you manage civility and professionalism with your fellow commission-ers when debating hot-button topics?
Adamczyk: Maintaining civil and professional discourse has va lue for a commiss ion. However, I would be wary of
any commissioner(s) who did not operate with passion for the community, and their ideals. As a result of having passion, and the fact that we are all sin-ners, we will all at times become embroiled in a moment here and there, and regret a com-ment here and there. It is human. Debate and discourse results in the best solution; this has been proven since mankind has existed. So, it should be expected. Five men sitting and agreeing on everything is terri-ble for our community.
Barican: During workshops and commission meetings, it is important that we all treat each other with respect and agree to disagree, if necessary. We are all representing the county, so we have a common purpose. Productive outcomes only come from working together.
Goddard: We can agree to disagree. I have voiced my con-cerns when I felt that the time arose that I needed to do so. Sometimes I am a man of few words and I choose to listen. However, in our workshops or on one-on-one with staff, I share my concerns and goals for the betterment of our county after I have gathered communi-ty input.
Pellicer: Treat others as you would wish to be treated. We should be able to debate and discuss issues and still be able to be civil to each other.
Q: How would you help fos-ter the relationship between the county and local municipali-ties?
Adamczyk: This has the appearance of some fracturing
in recent years. There does not appear to be much effort in working together, or collabora-tive exchanges. We need to work with every locality, gov-ernment offices state and feder-al, neighboring counties, to ensure we are finding the best solutions at every level, learning from one another. This involves reaching out on the terms of others in service. Becoming a service organization is para-mount to moving forward, and you cannot do that by not par-ticipating with every stakehold-er.
Barican: We need to rein-state joint meetings that result in productive outcomes. I believe that if we work together and combine resources, we will be able to find more revenue streams to do additional proj-ects that will move the county
and its municipalities forward.Goddard: I will continue to
have a good working relation-ship with all municipalities. We cannot fix all of the issues, but we can listen and work together to achieve the best that we can.
I desire to have more joint meetings as we have had in the past to help work towards common goals as well as I serve on the Northeast Florida Regional Council to help bring better solutions to Putnam County.
Pellicer: We need to develop inter local agreements with our municipalities concerning ser-vices to our citizens. Everyone needs to work together to make all areas of our county great places to live and work. I pledge to work with all of the munici-palities to work toward that end.
District 5CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2B
Palatka City Commission, Group 3(Candidate Willie Jones did
not respond.)
Q: What do you think of the city’s resolution about wearing face coverings in indoor busi-nesses and public places?
Allegra Kitchens: It wasn’t necessary. It exempts any busi-ness that practices social dis-tancing and businesses already were doing that.
They had tape on their floors showing customers where to safely stand, plexiglass set up on counters between employees and customers, and employees
were wiping down equipment.
David Parsons: I like that the resolution is broad enough for citizens to have the ability to use their best judgment. It’s import-ant for us to look out for each other and I think this just shows our city cares about our citizens and their well-being.
Q: How do you think the city should operate as the pandemic continues to affect the state?
Kitchens: The city needs to continue to ban all outdoor events of any kind including the festivals, city-sponsored fire-
works and concerts. In addi-tion, the city needs to ban any rallies, protests, parades or any other public event with more than 10 people.
Parsons: With the current guidelines in place (masks, small crowds and social dis-tancing) I feel we should be able to open our businesses and sup-port them.
Q: What qualities do you possess that will make you the most effective person for the job?
Kitchens: As a commission-er for nine years, I never came to a commission meeting with-out having thoroughly read, researched and made notes on every item on our agenda. I always did my homework and will do so again. I will vote for what the majority of the citizens want regardless of what I per-sonally want because citizens need to have a vote on the com-mission, and I am their vote.
Parsons: I’m a caring person with a listening ear. I’ve man-aged so many different groups of people with different person-
alities over the years. I feel like those experiences working with such different personalities have shaped me to be able to navigate through our commu-nity with passion toward every-one. My experience with creat-ing and understanding govern-ment budgets will also make it easy for me to transition into this position without missing a beat.
Q: What are three or four of your key priorities if elected?
Kitchens: I’ll work to assure our Palatka Police Department isn’t lacking officers, equipment or funds and that our officers get decent pay raises.
I’ll work to get the fire tax lowered every year until it is gone while keeping our Palatka Fire Department fully funded. I’ll work to stop the automat-ic increases in water, sewer and garbage bills. Those should be voted on by the commission yearly after public hearings. I’ll fight to keep city hall, police and fire departments in down-town Palatka, keep twice a week garbage pick-up, and continue our sports programs.
Parsons: Roads , roads , roads! Continuing to focus on infrastructure improvements is key for our city to continue to attract new business. Code enforcement wi l l a lso be important and something I see as a priority. I’ve heard from a lot of citizens about their con-cern of big trucks coming through our neighborhoods and not using the truck route. I hope to get to work on that right away, which will improve the quality of life for our citi-zens without an increase in taxes.
Q: How will you manage civility and professionalism with your fellow commissioners when debating hot-button top-ics?
Kitchens: I managed it for nine years previously with no problem and will do so again. There is no reason to not be civil and professional when you listen to another point of view, even if you don’t agree.
Parsons: I always strive to lis-ten first and think before speak-ing. Passion can sometimes
bring out the worst in people, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t always strive to be civil and professional.
Q: How would you help fos-ter the relationship between the city and county?
Kitchens: I’m friends with the current Putnam County commissioners, the county commission candidates, the county administrator, the tax collector, the property apprais-er, the property appraiser can-didate, the clerk of the circuit court, the clerk candidates and the Putnam County sheriff. As a city commissioner my friend-ship with the county govern-ment should help ease some of the recent tensions.
Parsons: I will help foster the relationship between the city and the county by consistently being involved. I am currently on the Affordable Housing Committee for the county and participate in their meetings as much as possible. I have a rap-port with the commissioners as well as staff at the county, which will help to enhance the current relationship.
Allegra Kitchens
David Parsons
Putnam County Clerk of Circuit Court and ComptrollerQ: What are your goals in
this office?
Kenny Downs – R: Build on the success of implementing technology to improve custom-er service. With online access applications that have been developed, remote customer service has never been easier. Access to court records, e-filing to the courts, e-recording,
e-certified documents, online access to off icial records. Online tax deed sale and fore-closure sales provide access without the need to come to the Clerk of Courts office. However, for those that prefer to visit in person we have recently consol-idated all customer service operations to a building outside of the courthouse which has easier access and parking with no need to go through a securi-ty station checkpoint.
Doug McClure –R: As your C l e r k o f C o u r t a n d Comptroller, I will work to save the taxpayers of Putnam C o u nt y m o n e y by m a k -ing accountability an expecta-tion.
With the addition of the office of inspector general, I will ensure that justice is the norm, that procedures are followed, and that the interests of our
children and veterans are met with support and resources from the courthouse.
Matt Reynolds –R: My goal for this office is to provide the best customer service possible while also saving taxpayers’ dol-lars. I have always been fiscally conservative, especially when it comes to taxpayers’ money, which is why I feel it is very important to make sure the
office runs as efficiently and effectively as possible. By utiliz-ing new software and technolo-gy where possible, this will help achieve that goal.
Q: What experience do you have to qualify for this position?
Downs: Served as the No. 2 man or Chief Deputy Clerk for the past 20 years.
Oversee the day-to-day oper-
ations of the clerk’s office.Oversee 2 budgets court side and non-court side, which c o m e s u p t o a l m o s t $4,000,000.00. Oversee all clerks in the office and the jobs they do. Work closely with other Constitutional Officers a n d t h e C o u n t y Commissioners.
McClure: With decades of leadership experience, I have focused on ensuring quality work and growth of businesses for the betterment of clients, customers and community. I have increased sales by 230%, and managed millions of dol-lars in equipment. I have built my own family business with honesty and integrity, while placing top value on the needs of my clients. The office of Clerk of Court and Comptroller requires dedication and a com-mitment to our community as well as strict adherence to pro-tocol and finance management.
With my business experience and community-based volun-teering, I am very qualified to serve in this position.
Reynolds: I have working experience in digital records management software develop-ment as well as local govern-ment financial management and oversight. I also have a col-lege degree in business admin-istrat ion with a major in finance. This combination of formal education and work experience is ideal for the Clerk of Court to possess due to the primary responsibilities of the office being the management of county and court records as well as financial oversight of taxpayers’ dollars. This combi-nation makes me the best can-didate for this office.
Q: How will you and your office be accessible to Putnam
Kenny Downs
Doug McClure Matt Reynolds
See CLERK, Page 5B
4B PALATKA DAILY NEWS • SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 , 2020
Meet the CandidatesU . S . H o u s e o f
Representatives, District 3 candidates (listed alphabeti-cally)
Q: What qualities do you possess that will make you the most effective person in the U.S. House of Representatives for those you represent?
Kat Cammack – R: I am a strong pro-Trump, pro-gun, pro-life constitutional conser-vative who will fight to build the wall, cut our taxes and address our national debt and deficit. I am the only candidate in this race with the experience necessary to hit the ground running in DC. After spending nearly a decade working for Congressman Yoho and this district, I know how to navigate the Washington Swamp and advocate for the values voters of Florida’s 3rd Congressional District hold dear. I am looking forward to aggressively combat-ting the socialist ideals being espoused by the radical left and Democrats on the Hill.
Ryan Chamberlin – R: The most important qualities I pos-sess are the basic requirements for Congressional service out-lined in the United States Constitution. Secondarily, my commitment to constitutional liberty, my business experience, and my perspective as an out-sider make me the best to repre-sent our community. Almost every other viable candidate for this race is either a politician or a creature of Washington. We need to stop sending represen-tatives of the system to DC to fix the system. We need people like me who are committed to overturning the system, stand-ing with President Trump and ready to send Nancy Pelosi to permanent retirement.
Todd Chase – R: Experience matters. I’m the only candidate with a broad resume of leader-ship and the real-life experienc-es shared by so many voters. As a Navy Pilot, I served my coun-try for 26 years, including 15 years at NAS JAX. I graduated from Harvard Business School and created jobs in North Florida’s economy for more than 20 years. As a Gainesville City Commissioner, I fought hard for conservative values. I’ve experienced the high costs of health care at the end of my mother’s life and I’m a proud husband and father of three who will represent you with honor and integrity.
Adam Christensen – D: I started my first company right out of college with the money I saved working a summer job. After a month and a half, I had 69 cents in my bank account. I survived, the business grew and within a year and a half I started another one. I am an analytical chemist, and my job is to test products and catch fraud. What I have learned is that most products we have on the market
are fake and expensive despite having the best packaging and branding. Washington is the same way.
Philip Dodds
Philip Dodds – D: Solve problems. Serve with integrity. Role model.
I’m a problem-solver who lis-tens, then acts. I explore all options when tackling a prob-lem, not borrow solutions from an extreme ideology.
For 25 years, I have been helping doctors by creating the computer software used to take care of patients and their busi-ness. That took hard work, teamwork, and problem-solv-ing. It is used by 100,000 daily.
Elected office should be an act of community service, not a means of private gain.
Government should work for everyone. Representatives should lead with ethics and val-ues. We must build a govern-ment that deserves our trust.
Bill Engelbrecht – R: I have 32 years of health care experi-ence, 26 of owning businesses that I built from the floor up. In collaboration with Medicare, hospital systems and primary health insurers, I understand what transpires behind the scenes. Things I can change for the good of the American pub-lic in lowering the cost of pre-scription drugs and health care premiums and possibly bridg-ing the gap for the uninsured. As a business owner, you need to be competitive and creative. I am an outside the box thinker. My experience and expertise allow me to get fast, positive results.
Joe Dallas Millado – R: Proven experience on a nation-al level advising two high pro-filed members that served on Energ y & Commerce and Veterans Affairs. Solid under-standing of the parliamentary and legislative processes from introduction to enactment, which will provide you a “voice” in Congress, not just an “ear” in Washington. Ability to work in a bipartisan manner to put America first. I intend to solve our nation’s most pressing issues with good policy, not politics.
Rising through the ranks from an intern to senior policy advisor, I feel well positioned to give you both the competency and passion Day One as your next representative.
Gavin Rollins – R: I grew up in Putnam County and my par-
ents still live in Putnam. I have served our community and country in the Florida National Guard, I have taught students t he C onst i tut i on and i n Congress will follow it. As a Clay County commissioner I fought for term limits, to make Clay a Second Amendment County and to reduce taxes and keep government small.
Judson Sapp – R: I am a hus-band, father and businessman. I understand what families deal with day to day and how to run a business. I know firsthand how every tax and regulation increases costs for businesses and raises prices for consumers.
I’m a no-nonsense business-man who knows how to get things done. As the Florida Co-Chairman of the Trump Victory Finance Committee, I look forward to working with our president in Congress to pass his America First agenda into law to help all Americans.
James St. George – R: I am a lifelong Republican, successful business owner, health care expert, family man, Christian and leader. I will stand with President Trump to fight social-ism, reopen our economy, defend the Second Amendment and stand with law enforce-ment. I am a political outsider who knows how businesses are run. I will go up to Washington as a straight shooter, not to play political games. I will put peo-ple over politics every day!
David Theus – R: I am com-mitted to putting the needs and concerns of my constituents before my own. In my profes-sional capacity, my approach focuses on listening, asking questions, researching the issue, and working together to form viable working solutions, all while holding stakeholders accountable. I will use this approach to ser ve you in Congress. I will measure my success by the consistent pur-suit of exceeding the expecta-t ions of my const ituents . Knowing full well I will not be able to solve all problems, my team and I will diligently work each day on behalf of Florida’s 3rd District.
Amy Pope Wells – R: Within my sphere of influence, I’ve been a real advocate for my community. I’ve sought solu-tions for difficult problems, whether that’s helping business-es file for PPP money, providing
masks to frontline workers or feeding over 200,000 families during COVID-19. I practice, “less talk, more action” philoso-phy. This approach produces more results, helps more peo-ple, and strengthens the com-munity. I a lso s it on the Nat iona l Sma l l Bus iness Administration, Women and Chi ldren’s Advancement , Health care Advisor, and was appointed by then-Governor Rick Scott to the Development Authority and chairman in Clay C o u n t y C h a m b e r o f Commerce. Council.
Tom Wells – D: I am a grandfather with a PhD. in the-oretical physics. Physics is about solving big problems. Since Reagan was inaugurated I’ve been watching our govern-ment pass laws that crush the working class. But what could I do? Bernie showed me in 2015. He spoke of the rights of all people - that health care is such a right; of restoring the dignity of work; that Climate Collapse is an existential threat. These problems were created in Washington, must be solved in Washington. The solution begins with reconnecting Congress to the people.
Q: What do you see as a few key issues concerning Putnam County that you would make a priority if elected?
Cammack: A key issue is the county’s economy, infrastruc-ture, rural broadband and edu-cation. When I worked for Congressman Ted Yoho, we created and implemented Project Putnam, a comprehen-sive economic development plan focused on rebuilding our local infrastructure, creating and retaining jobs, bringing in broadband and improving pub-lic education. This plan has been incredibly successful. I plan to build on Project Putnam as the representat ive for Florida’s 3rd Congressional District.
I have personally worked to bring back the Social Security office for Putnam residents and will use our federal office to bolster and support health ser-vices through the hospital and local VA.
Chamberlin: We need to protect our water assets, make sure that Putnam has a seat at the table in discussions about regional economic develop-ment and strongly connect our workforce training assets to our regional promotion. In addi-tion, I would be a fierce advo-cate for maintaining the Rodman Reservoir.
Chase: Economy, health care and agriculture. I’ll fight to keep taxes low, simplify the tax code for small businesses, and roll back needless regulations that stifle job growth. Health care costs continue to rise. I’ll work to replace Obamacare with a plan that includes free-market solutions to reduce costs and expand access. American agri-culture leads the world in inno-vat ion. Agr iculture is an important part of Putnam County, and as a member of Congress, I will advocate for sensible agricultural policies that make a real difference in the lives of both producers and consumers and approach it as a national security issue.
Christensen: The first thing is to remove insurance compa-nies from the health care indus-try and cover everyone. If we remove the middlemen (insur-ance companies) we will pay 30% less. COVID-19 has shown
us that if one person doesn’t have health care during a pan-demic, everyone is at risk.
We will create a federal jobs program to ensure that coming out of the pandemic, if you want to work you will be able to have a job and it will pay more than enough for you to be able to own a home, afford a family, and have plenty left over for retirement.
Dodds: Economic expansion is coming to Putnam County as it continues to look locally for manufacturing and agriculture. One key will be education. Prepare Putnam youth for their futures with funding for schools, technical education, and online learning. Invest in broadband internet access. As education levels rise, Putnam County becomes more attrac-tive for manufacturing and other business.
Putnam County should take advantage of ecotourism.
Residents also need good health care jobs. The govern-ment should expand access to Me d i c a r e / Me d i c a i d a n d increase the payment amount for services performed outside of hospitals and in more rural areas.
Most importantly, I would listen to you.
Engelbrecht: As a business owner in Palatka, Florida First Care, Inc., my clinical staff has experienced getting stuck on dirt roads while visiting patients at home. Putnam has too many ro a d s t h at n e e d p av i ng . Secondly, Putnam County needs more revenue coming to the county to have a better school system, increase funding to our first responders, and to create vocational and technical teachings at our local high school. I have a plan that will he lp t he county wit hout impacting our current property taxpayers.
Millado: One of the main functions of Congress is the “power of the purse.” With a broken system, uninformed members and polarized parti-sanship, the problems will only continue. We need to get our “House” in order. Infrastructure funding and processes with the Army Corps need to be looked at in an effort for better trans-parency. Far too often are smaller counties overshadowed with larger surrounding coun-ties. We will work to reform processes in decision making for a balanced approach; not a one size fits all. Ensuring our nation’s heroes are cared for will always be among my top priori-ties.
Rollins: Education, internet access and jobs; I will work to bring companies to the area and fight for federal funding to improve rural internet.
Sapp: Putnam County con-tinues to see sharp improve-ments in many key areas such as crime and education. Sheriff Gator DeLoach has done amaz-ing work lowering crime as has Superintendent Rick Surrency raising graduation rates and improving school grades. I am honored to be endorsed by S h e r i f f D e L o a c h a n d Superintendent Surrency and I look forward to working with them to meet their needs.
As a Congressman I would focus on economic develop-me nt and i n f r as t r u c tu re improvements. As CEO of a railroad construction company with many business clients in Putnam County, I understand the unique needs in Putnam regarding both economic devel-opment and infrastructure.
St. George: Two words. Economic revitalization. I start-ed my own small businesses and have grown it from my wife and I to four offices and 40 employees. I know how to cre-ate jobs and will do that for Putnam County. We need to encourage more businesses to open and the government needs to stay out of our decision mak-ing. Such as the Rodman Dam, which has become an economic plus for Florida. The Florida Department of Environmental Protec t ion rep or ted that Rodman offers more than twice the economic benefit to Florida than a restored river could. It is time we Make Putnam Great Again.
Theus: Jobs – Government does not create jobs, hardwork-ing Americans do. Government must get out of the way. I’ll con-tinue to support President Trump’s efforts to lessen gov-e r n m e n t r e g u l a t i o n o n America’s job creators.
Education – I am committed to quality education. I will seek to enact a national history cur-
riculum to include America’s F o u n d i n g F a t h e r s , t h e Constitution, Bill of Rights, ach ie vements of not able Americans, and how we recog-nized and overcame our short-comings and failings.
Roads – Most funding comes from the State, but the federal government provides grants. I will advocate for funding dedi-cated to improving public roads and highways throughout the county.
Amy Pope Wells: Some key issues concerning Putnam County I see are bringing prog-ress and economic opportunity to the rural community. If elect-ed in office, I would champion Pres ident Tr ump’s Rura l Prosperity Task Force, which works on legislative regulatory and policy changes that are needed to secure a prosperous rural community.
Tom Wells: The problems that Putnam County faced four years ago are overshadowed by those that we, and the whole nation, face now. The Trump government is the worst in the world in handling of the pan-demic. Notably, it failed to even attempt containment during the March shutdown - the eco-nomic burden of which fell overwhelmingly on wage earn-ers and small businesses. The pandemic cannot be contained while Trump is in power. My priority when elected will be containing the virus. Then building our way out of the eco-nomic collapse by investing in renewable energy and infra-structure.
Q: How would you work in the U.S. House to provide help to Putnam County businesses and residents amid the COVID-19 pandemic?
Cammack: As a small busi-ness owner, I know how important it is to focus on pro-growth policies that will help our economy rebound and return to the strong positioning we had prior to COVID-19. It is imperative that our next mem-ber of Congress be able to look at a situation, like COVID-19, and do what we must to keep our people safe and healthy. I will work in Congress to shift the false narratives pushed by the liberal media and remove de facto regulations placed on s m a l l bu s i n e s s e s du e t o COVID-19. We should make relief programs more flexible for small businesses.
Chamberlin: As a small businessman, I know we all have struggled during this diffi-cult time. However, the federal government should not take a direct role in easing economic pain of local communities. That role is reserved for states and the local communities themselves. Six trillion more in national debt is an outrage. We will bankrupt our country if we don’t stop federal expansion outside of constitutional limits.
What the federal government should do is secure our border, stockpile emergency health supplies and make sure the free market works for our pharma-ceutical researchers so they can develop treatments as quickly as possible.
Chase: I will be a tireless advocate for opening up our economy responsibly and returning control to the busi-nesses and individuals who make this country the greatest nat ion on Earth. Putnam County is poised to benefit from a renewed sense of urgen-cy in bringing critical manufac-turing jobs back to America, and together we will make the case that we have the workforce, technical education, infrastruc-ture and dedication to bring those jobs to the banks of the St Johns River and throughout the county.
Christensen: We have to make sure that people do not lose their homes because they are unemployed. We have to make sure that people are able to be financially secure. Our federal government decided to bail out the biggest companies in the world, but only gave us $1,200 to survive on. We have to stop taking a trickle-down approach to solving problems and start from the ground up. We need to make sure that peo-ple are taken care of first, not hedge funds or billionaires.
Dodds: Putnam County has over 1,400 positive cases of COVID-19 and 22 deaths. Without action, the number of cases could rise much higher. We need to have a primary focus on stopping the spread.
Kat Cammack
Ryan Chamberlin
Todd Chase
Adam Christensen
Bill Engelbrecht
Joe Dallas Millado
Gavin Rollins
Judson Sapp
James St. George
David Theus
Amy Pope Wells
Tom Wells
See HOUSE, Page 5B
5B PALATKA DAILY NEWS • SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 , 2020
Meet the Candidates
We should distance from each other, especially indoors. We need circulating fresh air, masks, testing, tracing and a program of random sample testing of communities to gauge the true rates of spread. Stop guessing.
If the economy sinks too low, we would need a moratorium on rent, mortgage, utility pay-ments, and healthy food to peo-ple out of work. Be creative, not ideological.
Engelbrecht: When the COVID-19 hit Putnam County, my company was the first to volunteer to be a drive-up test-ing site. If needed, we would s t i l l b e a volunteer s i te . However, we experienced first-hand the lack of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) that was available to the health department. I would request Congress to provide each coun-ty health department and health care facility through the CARES Act to provide enough PPE for the preparation of any natural disaster, pandemic, or any other infectious disease breakout in the area. I would work with businesses to create and implement an emergency management plan.
Millado: Working in a bipar-tisan manner to ensure we are not caught off guard again, whether it is in preparation on a natural disaster, biological threat or relief response. Having competent members with the requisite policy experience allows your representative to act when possible to turn your stories into viable solutions. Changing the term “pork spending” doesn’t solve any-thing when pet projects contin-uously find their way into tax-payer funded bailouts. Single-issue bills would be possible and more transparent if our nation didn’t keep jumping from one crisis to another, giv-ing passes to failing members of Congress.
Rollins: I would work to reduce and simplify regulations that make business more diffi-cult and support loans as a bridge through the crisis.
Sapp: We must ensure that our economy is not destroyed by the COVID-19 pandemic. I would work to increase Small Business Administration fund-ing during this time, cut taxes and regulations which add costs to businesses, and support our President as he leads us through this crisis.
St. George: I will fight for federal grants to be allocated in our community where our local leaders decide where the money should be spent, NOT the fed-eral government. We need to make sure our businesses are not overly regulated. As for small businesses like mine, we need to make sure that they have the power to make deci-sions which are best for our businesses rather than a one size fit all approach decided by the government. I want to keep taxes low and encourage growth, allowing owners to hire more people and pay their employees more through the free market, not some socialist programs.
Theus: I believe small busi-ness is the heartbeat of America. I will support President Trump’s initiative supporting small busi-nesses impacted by the corona-virus through the SBA and the Department of Agriculture’s low-interest loans. I will also work with local and national lending institutions to encour-age the continuation of equita-ble solutions that include loan relief and forbearance.
Amy Pope Wells: This is not an urban conversation; it is a rural conversation. Recent
studies indicate that national lockdowns are unnecessary. Rural communities should not be restricted the same way high-populated cities should be, since the rural communities do not have the same threats. I would advocate for good hygiene and education. The more educated we become, the more prepared we can be.
Tom Wells: The pandemic can, must and will be addressed at the federal level. This requires planning, logistics and common purpose. We will pay ourselves to work together to isolate and care for the infected and let the virus expire. Then I will work to build consensus in Congress to reverse the damage that Congress and President are now doing to people and small businesses across America. Any government ordered shut-down must compensate the stakeholders, sustain the unem-ployed, keep businesses intact. We will not again gift the bil-lionaires trillions while working people suffer.
Q: What would be your advice to Putnam County resi-dents concerning the pandem-ic?
Cammack: My advice to Putnam County residents would be to take a com-mon-sense approach to health care and to protect their consti-tutional rights. I would encour-age Putnam residents to prac-tice social distancing and be cognizant of their health, but to never allow government to establish and support rules that infringe on civil rights. As responsible citizens, we can take the necessary precautions to keep ourselves and our fami-lies safe without infringing on personal freedoms. I do not support mask mandates and believe we should not shut down our economy. Residents can help their communities by supporting local businesses and using common sense.
Chamberlin: My advice to Putnam County residents during this pandemic would be to take sensible measures to protect vulnerable family mem-bers. Wear a mask when neces-sary, wash your hands, and stand 6 feet from those who are in ill health or elderly. This should be voluntary.
What I do not believe we should be doing during this time is to permit federal author-ity to arbitrarily shut down massive portions of our econo-my. We must continue the great engine of American free mar-kets to maintain our strength and status as the world’s leader.
Chase: I encourage everyone to follow the health and safety guidelines that make the most sense to your individual case. There is no doubt that we will get through this period of time and rebuild stronger together. Like many of you, every aspect
of my life has been impacted, from my kids’ disruption to their college lives, to dealing with the loss of my father-in-law, as well as the challenges both my wife and I have faced in our professional work. I believe in the strength and spir-it of the American family and, like yours, mine is getting through this together.
Christensen: Stay safe, stay healthy, follow the CDC and WHO guidelines. Please under-stand that science is always changing based on new infor-mation and because of this, guidelines will also change, it doesn’t mean that they are wrong, it means that as more information comes in the ways that we have to fight the virus (may change.) Please try to physically distance yourself, wear a mask, and use common sense.
Dodds: First, businesses and organizations that find respon-sible, safe ways of operating would succeed the most as rates of disease rise. You need the trust of your customers and employees.
Next, don’t make this a politi-cal conversation. It has been political for the last six months, but I see signs of the parties converging, making it easier to work together. President Trump canceled his convention due to COVID-19 and ordered more PPE. Gov. DeSantis approved remote classes for students if local school boards approve.
Patriotism during a pandem-ic means being responsible, set-ting an example, and looking out for others people.
Engelbre cht: C ont inue social distancing, wash hands, wear a mask around the most vulnerable people who have multiple comorbidities. We have experienced a lot since shutting down the state and have learned more about the pandemic. What we learn today may not be relevant tomorrow. If someone wears a mask in public, be courteous to them because they might have a loved one at home with a deficient immune system. Stay humble and kind.
Millado: Listen to all sides, not just the sources we are com-fortable with, and make the best decision for you and your fami-ly with the information we have available. Crowd sourcing ideas will only cloud your judgment and spread fear. If you choose to stay home, stay home. If you choose to wear a mask, do so. These are freedoms and unless there is a consensus, backed with empirical data, and a feasi-ble plan to address it, trust yourself and do what you feel is right. Let the world 100 years from now debate if we were right or wrong.
Rollins: Take precautions and we can make it through this together.
Sapp: I believe the residents
of Putnam County are wise enough to know how best to handle themselves and don’t need a big government telling them what to do or how to live. We are blessed with a great gov-ernor and president and we should follow their lead as they guide us out of this pandemic.
St. George: “At first, do no harm,” an oath I took when I became a doctor. Keeping peo-ple safe is my #1 priority, so I encourage everyone to practice social distancing and staying home if you feel sick. We should be asking how do we reopen the economy safely. As a doctor and small business owner, I have a unique perspective on the pan-demic. If we do not open the economy, the side effects of COVID-19 will be worse than the virus itself.
Theus: Do not be anxious. We have a personal responsibil-ity to apply the common sense approaches we learned as chil-dren: wash your hands; if you feel sick, stay at home and call your doctor; if you have to go out, keep an appropriate dis-tance from others.
Amy Pope Wells: Thanks to COVID-19, our economy has cratered, creating smaller fami-l y c r i s e s t h r o u g h o u t Congressional District 3. From small businesses forced to close because of the pandemic, to households having to figure out ways to survive with far less, if any, income, to governments still having to provide services with collapsing sales tax reve-nues, these problems will con-tinue far into the future. My advice to Putnam County resi-dents would be to take care of themselves and their neighbors, insist that their elected officials work on their behalf, and be creative with locally-based solutions to the ever-changing challenges of COVID-19.
Tom Wells: We can slow the pandemic. All it requires is a conscious commitment to pro-tect our brothers from any harm that we present. And that they do likewise for us. That’s just the Golden Rule. Yes, I’m talking about wearing your mask, keeping your distance, avoiding those who do not. And being super respectful of the essential workers who sus-tain us.
A novel virus survives by infecting new people. The trick that the coronavirus has is that the carrier can remain asymp-tomatic for a couple of weeks. People who do not realize they are sick are the greatest danger to others.
Q: Several groups are push-ing toward revitalization efforts in Palatka and Putnam County. What would you do to help in this effort?
Cammack: I have been involved in revitalization efforts in Palatka and Putnam County since we began Project Putnam
w h e n I w o r k e d f o r Congressman Yoho. As I have done since 2016, I will make Putnam County a priority. As your next representative, I would work to build on the suc-cesses of Project Putnam by repealing business regulations, promoting personal liberty and bringing stakeholders together with the common goal of improving the community and bringing jobs back to Putnam County. This will spur invest-ment and population growth, further establishing Palatka and Putnam County as an econom-ic and societal hub of North Central Florida.
Chamberlin: As your next Congressman, economic devel-opment would be one of my m a i n g o a l s f o r a l l o f Congressional District 3. I believe the best way I could assist would be to help be an advocate for corporate reloca-tion to our area, help promote Putnam County as a business and tourist destination, and help bring our fair share of transportation and infrastruc-ture funding.
Ultimately, I would like to work with our area business leadership to increase wages and profits by spearheading a cooperative effort to attract m a nu f a c t u r i n g e nt i t i e s . Creating goods and services is the best foundation for long-term prosperity.
Chase: Throughout my time as an elected official in local government, I experienced how important it was that various elected boards row in the same direction. It’s critical that all lev-els of government focus on very specific priorities for a commu-nity. As your Congressman, I will ensure that you have sup-port from Washington that strengthens the efforts of your state and local governments. Together, we will build a foun-dation for economic prosperity and job growth and fight for economic policies at the federal level that lookout for small business owners and entrepre-neurs.
Christensen: It has to be done, and not only that, for us to be able to survive and rebuild following this pandemic we need to start putting people first. That is why we need a fed-eral jobs program for North Central Florida. It will help rebuild and revitalize Palatka and Putnam County and bring money back into our commu-nity. We need to rebuild our tourism industry and get peo-ple to come and vacation and spend money here.
Dodds: Mentioned above: Listen and problem-solve. Increase funding for education and for internet broadband, which will bring our people to jobs and jobs to Putnam County. Protect the environ-ment so that our economy pros-pers while we remain healthy
and nurture our ecotourism economy.
E n g e l b r e c h t : P u t n a m County is the best-kept secret in Florida. I have a concept that will help in the revitalization as well as not to increase taxes for the current property taxpayers.
Millado: Share the knowl-edge I have regarding Congress, policy issues, and previous leg-islative efforts. Listen to all sides and perspectives for a better understanding and sample size. Manage expectations but give my honest assessment on the issue. Simply having a conver-sation that hasn’t been had before, free from special inter-est. Looking at all possible ave-nues such as repurposing unused grants that are wasted year after year. Additionally, helping to bridge gaps between people and industries for stron-ger public/private partnerships.
Rollins: I would fight for fed-eral grants and also be a voice for Project Putnam.
Sapp: My family has owned property in Putnam County for three generations. Putnam County is blessed with great people and a beautiful natural environment, making the com-munity attractive for growth and economic development.
I look forward to assisting in any way necessary to facilitate the growth of Putnam County’s economy. I particularly look forward to directing funds towards needed infrastructure projects which wil l make Putnam County more enticing for businesses looking to relo-cate and improve quality of life for citizens.
St. George: We need to build upon what Rep. Yoho started with the Putnam Project to revitalize Putnam County. In order to grow, we need eco-nomic development to attract tourists. More tourists means more jobs which provides more opportunity to our citizens. In order to make sure our children live a successful life we need to increase the opportunity for education and make sure we are encouraging school choice as well as educating our children about the trade schools avail-able in order to give everyone the chance to earn a good hon-est living.
Theus: Once known as the “Gem of the St. Johns,” I agree Palatka and Putnam County are ripe for revitalization. First, I will listen to the residents and local business owners to learn what type of development they want. Together we will create a plan that capitalizes on the county’s many natural resourc-es, including the St. Johns River, to ensure environmentally friendly development. I am committed to finding the finan-cial resources available at the federal level to create pub-lic-private partnerships and cost-share programs.
Amy Pope Wells: As the only candidate in this race that is currently sitting as an appoint-ed person to the Development Authority Board, I will ensure to get this right by identifying the legislation and regulatory policy changes needed to bring progress and economic oppor-tunity. I will champion Putnam County’s revitalization, secure federal funding, and serve as a resource to these agencies as they try to navigate the federal bureaucracy and coordinate with partners in the district.
Tom Wells: Wall Street has been bailed out to the tune of $5 trillion while the newly unem-ployed have no health care. And their rent was due August 1st – which is when their $600 per week unemployment sup-plement ran out.
If the Congress and President do not act to provide relief to people, then in January – when a new Congress is installed – then we will be working on disaster relief rather than revi-talization.
HouseCONTINUED FROM PAGE 4B
County residents, especially during the COVID-19 pan-demic?
Downs: Since the COVID-19 pandemic started our offices have been open for certain criti-cal court functions by in-per-son personnel every day, and by remote access as ordered by the courts. The Clerk of Courts office customer service center has been staffed everyday serv-ing the needs of our citizens. As mentioned in answer number
one the technology that has been implemented over the past years has allowed for access to those that prefer to not meet face to face.
Our customer center handles 80% of the needs of our citizens for probate, recording, traffic, small claims, passports, tax deeds, foreclosures, Baker Act, Marchman Act, family court issues such as domestic violence injunctions, juvenile and child support.
McClure: By continuing to offer virtual connection with residents through various social media platforms and the web-site, I will ensure that they can quickly obtain answers to their
questions and access resources with little risk. We will continue to be available during normal business hours via telephone and through appointments, as allowed by CDC and county health administration guide-lines.
Reynolds: This pandemic has demonstrated the need for public servants to explore new ways to deliver services while ensuring residents and staff safety. Technology is a great way to continue providing the services that Putnam County residents expect and deserve. I will ensure that every possible use of technology is implement-ed to enable the Clerks’ office to
remain just as accessible as they were before the pandemic.
Q: What are some of the big-gest challenges facing the Clerk of Courts Office?
Downs: As the courts con-tinue to reopen trial and hear-ings, the safety of the public and our staff will be a challenge par-ticularly as we begin to sum-mon Jurors for jury trials.
Recruitment of staff that seek a career in our office as it takes many years to become profi-cient at the complexity of the statutory requirements we work with.
Continue to work with our partners in county administra-
tion in our role as Comptroller to protect the public assets that we are responsible for.
McClure: The office of Clerk of Court and Comptroller faces the challenge of reorganizing the budget to save the taxpayers money while ensuring vital operations and public safety are properly supported. With a budget of over $150 million, this office must prioritize com-munity progress and use funds with integrity.
As your next Clerk of Court and Comptroller, I will make it my mission to use an inspector general to meticulously review the budget to rid it of frivolous spending, saving taxpayers’
money and keep leadership accountable.
Reynolds: The Clerks’ office is funded in part by fines and fees from the operations of the court system. Due to COVID-19, the Florida Supreme Court has placed restrictions on these operations. This is creating a significant shortfall in revenues within the Clerks’ budget. While this will be quite a chal-lenge to overcome, it is one that I gladly accept.
Accomplishing more with less is something I’ve been accustomed to throughout my career and it is something that I believe all public servants should aspire to do.
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6B PALATKA DAILY NEWS • SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 , 2020
PRO-AMERICAN MADE PRO-LIFE PRO-GUN
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I am a fiscal conservative who will protect our tax dollars and fight for Putnam County residents. Please vote for me on your absentee, early, or election day ballot. -Matt
PleaseELECTMatt Reynoldson TUESDAYAugust 18, 2020
Endorsed by
“I grew up poor, working every job I could to make a dime. I learned the value of a dollar and know what it takes to create jobs. Putnam County can and will be prosperous if we enact the right policies. Our crime rate is headed down and our education system is headed up. I’ll work each and every day to make Putnam County a better place to live, work, and raise a family.”
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Putnam County Property AppraiserQ: What are your goals for
your time in office?
Freddy Garrett – R: Once elected I have several goals, both long term and immediate. A few of the immediate goals will require improving custom-er service, providing tools for the job, ie; work vehicles for all field staff (currently using per-sonal vehicles) and work toward providing more fair and accu-rate property assessments. Long term, I am planning to have full time staff in each annex and I would like to have quarterly town hall meetings.
Tim Parker – R: As the cur-rent Property Appraiser, I would continue to treat our citi-zens in a professional and cour-teous manner, with the goal of exceeding the expectations of those we serve. I would also continue community outreach by informing the public of exemptions that can save them money and explaining upcom-ing amendments and their effects on the residents. My goal is to reduce our office budget
for next year and recognize our employee’s excellent service monetarily, through a COLA adjustment. I plan to continual-l y p a s s a u d i t s b y t h e Department of Revenue and the Auditor General to fairly and honestly appraise your proper-ty.
Q: What experience do you have that qualifies you for this office?
Garrett: The Air Force fos-tered leadership skills that will assist me in effectively leading this office.
Coupled with the 40-plus years of hands on residential and commercial appraisal expe-rience and the experience gained from owning my own mortgage/appraisal business, this proves I am the most quali-fied candidate. By working under two different Property Appraisers in adjacent counties, this has prepared me to be Putnam County’s next Property Appraiser.
Parker: I graduated from Stetson University, with a major in Finance. My experience includes: an appraiser for the Alachua County Property Appraiser’s office, with the State of Florida, and here in Putnam County for the last 20 years supervising office staff. I have a State-Certified General Real Estate Appraiser’s License. This license qualifies me to appraise any type of property in the State of Florida.
I am the President of the P r o p e r t y A p p r a i s e r ’ s Association of Florida and have been endorsed by my peers, the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors. In addition, I have never lost a Value Adjustment Board case.
Q: How do you plan to han-dle the potential fallout from coronavirus regarding the housing market?
Garrett: We will adjust val-ues of current sales, per Florida statute.
I would also like to have con-versations with other county officials in regard to adopting an interest free payment plan for property taxes to help indi-
viduals and small business owners throughout the county that have been impacted by COVID-19.
Parker: It’s amazing isn’t it, how something we cannot even see, COVID-19, has affected every one of us. We had one of the strongest years in real estate in 2019 that we have had in recent years in Putnam County. Even in this crisis, some busi-nesses are doing well, and some are never going to recover. It is too early to tell the full effect of t h e C OV I D - 1 9 . P u t n a m County’s median sales price is relatively low compared to sur-rounding counties; this makes our housing market less vulner-able to outside influences. I will continue to monitor sales and adjust our values appropriately.
Q: How will you and your office be accessible to Putnam County residents, especially during the COVID-19 pan-demic?
Garrett: In January when I take office, I will adhere to state and CDC guidelines with which to operate under mandated conditions. That being said, our goal would be to make available to the public office appoint-ments, tbe ability to file online exemptions, and social media access to frequently asked ques-tions. I have been and will always be a phone call away to all the residents of Putnam County.
Parker: We have maintained staffing to meet all your needs during this pandemic. We are able to social distance to stay healthy and available. We insti-tuted on-line homestead filing to better serve you.
Our vehicles have readily identifiable markings to let you know who and where to call if you question why we are on a property. Our field staff meet every homeowner wearing a mask and our office staff are able to converse through shields which were constructed with donated labor.
Due to a Palatka city ordi-nance, we have a limited supply of masks available to the public visiting our office.
Freddy Garrett
Tim Parker