John Kenney is running for the District 2 seat on the Citrus County Commission.
1. Why are you running for this office?
I have been in service to Citrus County for 16 1/2 years. The first 13 as the County Veteran Service Officer. In that capacity my team increased the amount of benefits from $19 million to $55 million for Citrus County Veterans and Widows.
The last 3 1/2 have been spent on the Board of County Commissioners. I currently serve as the Chairman. Over that time we have weathered the perfect storm what with the declining property values and the Duke energy tax issues.
We've presented balanced budgets but had to cut spending reduce staff by 125 personnel and delve into the reserves. Additionally, we had to raise the millage. All these actions resulted in the continuance of all county services.
As a matter of fact we increase transportation services offered by our fixed route buses in under served portions of the county. We also are now providing Saturday service.
There are still things that need to be done with regards to stability in the work force. Number one we have to get a strong administrator on board. Move forward with road resurfacing, build the animal shelter and hopeful at resolution of the problems between the board and our cities.
We also need better coordination between the board and the Clerk of the Courts. We also need to find ways to fund projects without putting additional burden on property owners.
2. Why do you think you are the best qualified candidate for the office?
I think I have proven myself to the Citizens of Citrus County over the years. I do my homework and I'm not afraid to make the decisions that are in the best interest to our community.
Additionally, I am involved in this community not on through my work as a commissioner but as a citizen contributing financially to various organizations serving on various boards and as a veteran holding membership in every major veterans organization in the county.
3. If you are elected, what will be your top priorities?
If reelected I will continue to work to maintain our financial house in order. We currently have a bond rating of A+ and the reserves are at over 13 percent.
Additionally, we have to start restocking the shelves, both personnel and equipment. We can't go crazy, we must take a measured approach. And again we have to continue to work with the incorporated cities.