Nassau County Board of Commission Elect Thomas Ford answers questions

BOCC Elect Thomas Ford

Editor's Note:  Last week, William "Bill" Kruse, a write in candidate for the Nassau County Board of Commission District 4 withdrew from the race.  It was Kruse's write-in candidacy that forced a showdown in the August primary between Incumbent George Spicer and Ford who narrowly defeated the incumbent with 51% of the vote. 

Thomas Ford

October 8, 2018 10:00 a.m.

What is your highest priority for Nassau County?

My highest priority is to be able to establish and maintain sound fiscal management practices for now and the future. Additionally, I want to make sure the county continues to grow responsibly.

How would you work to create resource saving/ sharing opportunities for the county with the school district, ocean and port authority, and cities of Fernandina Beach, Callahan, and Hilliard?

I want to review and, if necessary, reestablish working relationships with each of the municipalities as well as the school district to reduce costs for everyone. I would suggest a bi-yearly meeting with all county governments to make sure we are all implementing the best management practices we can to save taxpayers money.

What are your suggestions for providing levels of public safety and infrastructure to both the east and west side of the county?

The recently proposed five-year plan should provide much-needed monies for infrastructure and public safety.

How should Nassau County approach providing recreation opportunities and facilities for our citizens?

I would like to take a closer look at the impact fees collected in the district where the recreation facilities are needed. I would also like to seek the possibility of grants from state and federal sources to lessen the burden on local taxpayers.