Jeremy Johnson: Candidate, Elected SRIA Board Member
EDITOR'S NOTE: The following is an interview conducted via questionnaire by the Pensacola News Journal with Escambia and Santa Rosa County election candidates for their respective races. All of the answers were submitted to the Pensacola News Journal by the candidate and are available to our readers to show the candidates' position and priorities on the issues. Candidates were limited to 750 words. IF A CANDIDATE DID NOT RETURN A QUESTIONNAIRE BY DEADLINE, THEIR Q&A WAS NOT PUBLISHED.
Candidate: Jeremy Johnson
Office you're seeking: Elected SRIA Board Member
Occupation: Real Estate Sales
Education: B.S. Business Administration, University of Florida
More about the race: Newcomer Jeremy Johnson faces longtime incumbent Thomas Campanella for SRIA seat
Why are you running for this office?
Simply put, to make a difference. To improve the quality of life for residents and leaseholders on Pensacola Beach and to provide a fresh perspective on the many challenges our community faces.
What makes you stand out from your opponent(s)?
Proactive communication. Bi-monthly emails, quarterly townhall meetings and semi-annual surveys — each asking for feedback from my constituents — will be the norm.
Previous elective office/ elective office experience:
What are your three most important priorities if you are elected or re-elected?
The mitigation of traffic and parking congestion.
Ensuring that the SRIA receives adequate funding for infrastructure, capital improvement projects, maintenance, and public safety from Escambia County.
Improving the use of technology.
How would you implement Priority 1?
Mitigation of traffic and parking congestion is my number one priority. Currently the SRIA funds the seasonal trolleys. This free mode of public transportation to the end user should be enhanced, along with the technology to support it. I will support and encourage greater enhancement to all modes of transportation including upgrades to our multi-use path, safe crosswalks and public education campaigns to encourage their use. I will support all efforts to improve parking on Pensacola Beach that are both financially and environmentally feasible.
How would you implement Priority 2?
I will be an advocate at the County level for Pensacola Beach and its leaseholders and residents. I will ensure that the SRIA receives adequate funding for infrastructure, capital improvement projects, maintenance, and public safety from Escambia County. A prime example of this is the SRIA shouldering the heavy financial burden of funding beach renourishment projects that in the past have been paid for by lease fees to the cost of $8 million. Though Commissioner Robert Bender has dedicated $500,000 in Tourist Development Tax funds to this effort, the amount should be much more. Pensacola Beach is a strong economic engine that benefits all of Escambia County and we deserve more. We are home to an A rated school, five churches, a sensitive eco-system and a world-class tourist destination. I will, without reservation, advocate for the appropriate funding to ensure the future of Pensacola Beach is secure and healthy for those who live, work and play here.
How would you implement Priority 3?
It is time that the SRIA come into the 21st century and use available technology to save both time and money. I will propose that the SRIA add the capabilities to live stream all of their meetings with video and offer electronic payment processing for lease fee payments.
How will you approach the growing infrastructure needs with the growth and development our community is experiencing?
I will ensure that Pensacola Beach is receiving its share of funding from the Escambia County. I will make sure every dollar available at both the County and SRIA level is wisely spent on upgrading and maintaining Pensacola Beach’s infrastructure.
In what ways will you work to promote civility among your colleagues and with the public, especially when dealing with divisive or controversial issues?
I will build relationships through inclusive communication among all the parties involved. I will listen more than I will talk. I believe when people work together, there can be a positive solution to a controversial issue for the greater good of all involved.
This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Jeremy Johnson: Candidate, Elected SRIA Board Member
