A well-known Hernando County politician is jumping back in the ring. 

For 33 years, David Russell has owned a swimming pool supply store in Spring Hill, but that's probably not why most people in Hernando County know him. He had a second job for years serving the community.

Russell spent the past 16 years as a state representative and county commissioner. He stepped out of the political ring in December, but now he's getting back in. The seasoned Republican has decided to run for the District 5 commission seat. He says the short break from politics made him realize there is more to do.

"We have an opportunity to capitalize on good quality growth," he said.

Russell is expecting more people to move to the county as things continue to pick up. More homes are being built, a new shopping center is now open and he says as the county takes in more tax revenue, he wants to make sure that money is well taken care of.

"It is too easy to fall back into old habits and spending more money as more money becomes available," he said.

Russell also says more needs to be done to improve transportation, infrastructure and job creation.

"I want to see more efforts in those areas," he said. "I have more to offer."

Russell plans to hand his pool supply business of to his family so he can focus full-time on the county if he is reelected.