The incumbent District 3 commissioner, Terry Turner, is not on the ballot for re-election this year. There are two Republicans seeking the post: Josh Alexander and Les Sims. As there are no Democrats or other candidates who qualified in this race, the Republican primary in August will be open to all voters.
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 by party and are presented exactly as submitted, with no editing by News4Jax staff.
Josh Alexander
Occupation: Consultant
Age: 51
Family: Wife-Regina
Son-Clayton
Son-Tucker
Daughter-Ivey
Education: College
Political experience: none
What do you see as the top three issues in this race, and how do you plan to address them?
Collaboration with city and county commissions. Working together to address upcoming issues in our ever evolving county
Transparency in our commission. Remembering that the commission is elected to serve the people and provide opportunities for the public to be heard.
Managing impending growth for the benefit of all residents of our county, both new and old through pro-active planning and leveraging relationships to avoid pitfalls that have developed in surrounding counties.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
As a Putnam Native, I have worked in multiple industries throughout the US, while always residing in Putnam County. I will like to apply the experience and knowledge garnered from outside our county to benefit all members of our community.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
That the county was better when I left than when I began.
Campaign website: https://www.facebook.com/groups/796714158607962/about
Campaign social media: Facebook
Les Sims
Occupation: Roofing contractor
Age: 48
Family: Father of three
Education: Graduated high school in1994.
Political experience: None
What do you see as the top three issues in this race, and how do you plan to address them?
1) no new taxes
2) growth management
3) fiscal resposibility
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
I have 15 years experience sitting on different boards and committees through Putnam county and the state. My opposition has none.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
I would focus on the Ammended land development code to protect our current citizens way of life while also allowing reasonable and responsible growth.
Campaign website: None
Campaign social media: Facebook