Since no Democratic candidate is running for this seat and there is no opposition in November, this Republican primary is an open primary that all voters will see on their primary ballot. Two candidates are seeking the position.
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.
Tyler Mobley
Occupation: Construction Accountant/ Project Manager.
Age: 31
Family: Married to my wife Lani. We have one son, Beau, and another son on the way!
Education: Bachelors Degree in Accounting, Bachelors Degree in Finance, Underground Utility Contractor License holder and Class V Fire Protection License holder.
Political experience: None
What do you see as the top three issues in this race, and how do you plan to address them?
1. Growth - I plan on using my knowledge of the development world to help facilitate slower healthy growth that is coming to the county.
2. County Jail - I plan on working with the Sheriff and collaborators to best meet the needs of Baker County Residents and ensure long term fiscal stability to the BCCDC Board.
3. County Fire and Rescue - As a commissioner, I plan to continue down the path of the vision committee to make sure we have the resources necessary to meet the needs of the citizens.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
I plan to use my experiences in accounting and managerial positions to help make educated designs regarding the County Budget. My years of Project Managing and being in the development world will benefit the county as i know the inter-workings of developments and ways to ensure the citizens of Baker County
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
I hope to leave a legacy of helping the people of our community and keeping our rural character. Progress is coming, but let us not lose sight of our heritage.
Campaign website: N/A
Campaign social media: Facebook
Ann Watts
Occupation: Semi-retired as former School Administrator; current small business owner
Age: 58
Family: (No response)
Education: Masters degree in Educational Leadership
Bachelors degree in English
Political experience: No political experience as a candidate
What do you see as the top three issues in this race, and how do you plan to address them?
The top 3 issues in this race are:
1. Economic development is needed to expand job opportunities. This can be addressed by working with our local chamber to attract new business, supporting local small business development and entrepreneurship, and infrastructure planning and development.
2. Infrastructure deficiencies impact economic development and reduce the quality of life for citizens as residential growth happens. Partnering with state and federal agencies is one way to address issues with roads, establishing transportation systems, and establishing a growth management plan that supports maintaining rural qualities.
3. Limited healthcare access for isolated and vulnerable populations is an ongoing issue. Collaborating with neighboring counties to expand healthcare services and supporting our local hospital in developing in-county tele-health services are ways to partially address this issue.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
With 30 years of experience in public administration, I understand how data-driven decision-making, and collaborating with outside agencies and businesses, positively impact long-term goals and objectives.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
After serving in this office, I hope to be remembered for maintaining lower taxes while updating infrastructure, expanding economic development, improving public safety services, and supporting projects that support vulnerable populations.
Campaign website: www.watts4baker.com
Campaign social media: (None listed)