Continuing News 13's "Walton Votes" series, profiling candidates of universal primary races, learn the candidates for Walton County District Five Commissioner.
The field for District Five Commissioner is five deep, running just about as long as the 26 miles of beach it represents.
All five are Republican and include two former commissioners and incumbent, Cecilia Jones.
Cecilia Jones is hoping to continue for another term, running on a platform of streamlining the budget and keeping taxes low.
Addressing the crowd Tuesday at Freeport High School, Jones outlined the reasons to keep her in office.
"I have been successful along with my other commissioners at keeping the millage low. We have the lowest millage in the state if you take out school tax. I want to diversify the economy, bring in more jobs," said Jones.
Next is Tom Babcock. He's been a businessman for 32 years. He's passionate about economic development and running on a platform of credibility and confidence.
"I think they need somebody to look after them and help them get jobs, help them with their lively hood, so they can live and work and stay in Walton County," said Babcock.
Former commissioner, Cindy Meadows, is hoping for another shot. Meadows is the first woman in Walton County to be elected to the commission. She sited her knowledge in community planning and development as a strength.
"I'm a community planner, I have a Master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning, and I've had thirty years of experience in community issues," said Meadows.
The new kid on the block is Will Palmer. He cited strong conservative principles as a foundation for his campaign. He's a big believer in government transparency, despite the fact he had to address folks in the dark due to power outage.
"We don't need to rehash the past and spend time going through emails and depositions. We need to be moving our community forward," said Palmer.
Rounding out the mix is Tim Pauls, also a former Commissioner in District Five from 2000 to 2004.
He boasts a background in real estate construction, development, and marketing.
"I have a personal agenda because I have businesses on 30A, but what would benefit me would benefit everybody in the county. I want to see us get it done," said Pauls.
You can learn more about all the District five candidates including campaign financials at www.votewalton.com
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