Two candidates are seeking the votes for St. Augustine City Commission, Seat 5.
News4Jax sent a questionnaire to each candidate asking about their background and their views on several issues. Scroll down to read the responses of those seeking your vote -- in their own words.
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Note: Responses are sorted alphabetically and are presented exactly as submitted, with no editing by News4Jax staff.
| CANDIDATES |
Melinda G. Rakoncay
Party affiliation: Republican
Occupation: Retired
Age: 73
Your family: Widowed
Education: BFA Washington University, St Louis
Political experience:
What do you see as the top three issues you’ll likely face while holding this office?
- Development & Livability
- Flooding & Resilience
- Traffic & Mobility
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
- I can represent people effectively because I’ve been involved for over 40 years in City Issues, know CIty Code, have worked with City Staff. I have attended countless City Commission,PZB, and HARB Meetings, so I know how meetings work and what issues residents are concerned about.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
- For standing up for the resident and returning St Augustine to being a livable city and not just a tourist attraction.
Campaign website: VoteMelinda.Com
Campaign’s social media site(s): FaceBook: Melinda for City Commissioner
Jim Springfield
Party affiliation: Non partisan race
Occupation: Retired School and College Administrator
Age: 70
Your family: Wife- Patty Springfield and son Jake Sprinfield
Education: B.S. Psychology and M.S. School Leadership
Political experience: None
What do you see as the top three issues you’ll likely face while holding this office?
- Proper Fire and Police funding
- Environment ( Flooding and Green Space
- Resident’s concerns being considered in decisions made by City Commission.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
- I am retired and will commit the time necessary to listen to anyone interested in voicing an opinion. I have extensive experience with government finance, employee relations and contract negotiations.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
- I was a true representative of the residents. I was creative and created successful alternatives for a win-win situation on the tough decisions. I was honest, caring and hard working.
Campaign website: votejimspringfield.com
Campaign’s social media site(s): @votejimspringfield. (Facebook and Instagram)