St. Lucie County Primary Election 2024: Candidates reply to questionnaires
This file will be updated as new information comes in and can be processed ...
In June, we began to ask candidates to fill out questionnaires to help you understand your choices on the ballot.
The following candidate responses were not edited.
Our editorial board planned to interview candidates in July participating in the Aug. 20 primary. Our main focus was on those races that could lead to a presumptive officeholder. The editorial board planned to consider making recommendations in those races.
KEY LINKS:
The latest election news from TCPalm: TCPalm.com/elections
Who is running for office in St. Lucie County this fall?
Indian River County Supervisor of Elections website
St. Lucie County Supervisor of Elections website
Martin County Supervisor of Elections website
Florida Division of Elections website
Property Appraiser (Republican)
2016 Editorial Board recommendation
Michelle Franklin, Port St. Lucie
Age: 50
Educational background:
Bachelor's Degree in Organizational Management and Certified Florida Appraiser
Current occupation and work history:
My journey in public service began with experience in banking (mortgage department) and with an independent appraisal firm. This was followed by an entry-level position in the PA office in 2004. From January 2004 through 2016, I advanced through the office ranks, gaining knowledge about mass appraisal, exemptions, and government finance. Since January 2017, I have had the honor of serving as the elected PA, a role that I approach with a deep commitment to public service and the betterment of our community.
Volunteer and civic engagement:
I sit on the Boards of Graceway Village and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). I am actively involved with Sunrise Kiwanis (I served as the volunteer coordinator for the recent playground build at Jaycee Park), LPA Key Club Sponsor, St Lucie Historical Society, Fort Pierce Rotary Club, and the Port St Lucie Historical Society.
Why are you running for office?
My decision to run for the PA office is a reaffirmation of my passion for public service. In 2016 my predecessor decided to retire; at that time, the opponent in the race was vocal that he would make big changes. He claimed that professionals within the office did not know how to properly do their job. I felt called to run then and continue to feel called because I am proud of the Property Appraiser's Office award-winning team. I consider it a great honor to lead such a dedicated group of public servants while serving my community as an elected official. I remain passionate about advancing technology and providing superior service in local government.
What would be your top priority during your first year in office? Explain:
My top priorities for 2025 are the deployment of a new online exemption platform (online filing is available now, but I would like to enhance the experience) and elevated data security.
What distinguishes you from your opponents in this race?
Qualifications. I am the only candidate who has worked with an independent appraisal firm and the Property Appraiser's Office. I have proven experience in mass assessment, exemptions, government finance, and leading a team of 70.
Have you ever filed for bankruptcy? If yes, please explain: No.
Link to campaign website or social media page:
Joe James, Port. St. Lucie
Age: 67
Educational background: High School
Current occupation and work history:
After 35 years, I retired from the plastics division of an international chemical company, with responsibility for assisting in the development of production facilities in Asia, specifically Thailand. I have also been a licensed Real Estate professional for the last 25 years and an Associate Broker for the past 15 years.
I actually began working between the 8th grade and my freshman year of high school, pumping gas for customers at a local filling station and have been employed ever since.
Volunteer and civic engagement:
I am a member of the Elks Lodge of St Lucie County and was inspired to do so because of their benevolent nature and the many Veteran and Youth programs that they have.
Why are you running for office?
I have always been politically active and when I moved to Port St Lucie, I became very involved with the Republican Executive Committee. One of the greatest challenges for a party is getting good, qualified people to run for office. With my 25 years' experience in Real Estate and my history with the Party, I am the best candidate for the office. I thought that if I do not step up, how can anyone expect others to. And so, I became a candidate. But I also think of myself as a bit of a mechanic, I get a sense of accomplishment when I leave things better than I found them. I look forward to making some needed "repairs" in the Appraiser's Office.
What would be your top priority during your first year in office? Explain:
My first priority is to do those things that will help to restore the public's trust in the office's ability to provide fair and accurate determinations and evaluations of property. Public records show that for the past eight years, property owners have filed more and more challenges by way of petitions, to the Value Adjustment Board. In '22 the number reached an all-time high, being almost four times, the number of petitions filed in Martin, Indian River and Okeechobee combined. And for the property owners that went all the way to the hearing, the independent panel sided with the property owner approximately 25% of the time. For the County, and those that prevailed, the hearings were an unnecessary and costly aggravation.
What distinguishes you from your opponents in this race?
I am a life-long Conservative Republican, running against a twice elected Democrat, in a Republican primary. My opponent decided to abandon the party that got them elected, the very next day after I filed for the office. Their decision came only one month after the 2022 general election where 12,000 more Republicans showed up to vote and because of that turnout, every Democrat running was defeated. The vast majority of those that will be voting in this Republican primary, believe that changing parties, in an effort to maintain a position and a paycheck, is not acceptable.
Have you ever filed for bankruptcy? If yes, please explain:
No, I have never filed for bankruptcy. Also, I have never had any judgements against me.
Link to campaign website or social media page:
Sheriff (Republican)
Video: 2024 Editorial Board interview
2024 Editorial Board recommendation
Richard Del Toro, Port St. Lucie
Party: Republican
Age: 47
Educational background:
• Master of Science Degree in Public Administration Nova Southeastern University
• Bachelor of Science Degree, Professional Administration Barry University
• Associate of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Technology Indian River Community College
Current occupation and work history:
Current
January 5, 1999 - Present
Serving as Chief of Police at the Port St. Lucie Police Department managing 516 sworn/civilian personnel, 200 volunteers, and an overall budget of approximately $66 million dollars. Prior to my appointment as Chief of Police in May 2023, I served as the Assistant Chief of Police for 11 years. During my 26-year career, I have worked in a variety of assignments that include road patrol, the Special Investigations Division, Internal Affairs, and as the Commander of the Professional Standards Division and S.W.A.T. Team.
The City of Port St. Lucie has continuously been recognized as the “Safest Large City in the State of Florida” by having the lowest crime rate for cities with a population over 100,000 residents. Since becoming a member of the executive command staff in 2012, the crime rate within the City of Port St. Lucie has been reduced by an incredible 25%, while dealing with unprecedented growth in population of over 70,000 residents.
The Port St. Lucie Police Department has also been recognized as one of the most professional agencies in the country by adopting and implementing the highest standards in the policing profession through the Commission of Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies and the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation.
Every citizen within St. Lucie County deserves to live in a safe community and be served by a law enforcement agency with the highest standards and values. As the next Sheriff of St. Lucie County, my top priority and vision will be implementing a standard of performance at the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office that will transform St. Lucie County into the safest county within the State of Florida and make the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office the premier law enforcement agency in the United States of America.
Volunteer and civic engagement:
• Boys and Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County – Past President/Board of Directors (2015-Present)
• Children’s Services Council of St. Lucie County – Governor Appointed (2017-Present)
• Treasure Coast Hope for the Homeless Foundation – President (2015-Present)
• Roundtable of St. Lucie County - Board of Directors (2023 - Present)
• The St. Lucie County Hundred Club - Board of Directors (2023 - Present)
• International Association of Chiefs of Police Community Policing Committee (2023 - Present)
• Port St. Lucie Police Athletic League – Honorary Member/Board of Directors (2013-Present)
• International Association of Chiefs of Police – Member
• Florida Police Chief’s Association – Member
• Florida Sheriff’s Association – Member
• Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 118 - Member
• Treasure Coast Chief’s and Sheriff’s Association – Member
• Port St. Lucie Downtown Lion’s Club – Member
• Florida Internal Affairs Investigators Association – Past Secretary/Treasurer
• Indian River State College – Former Adjunct Faculty Member
Why are you running for office?
Aside from being a good father, husband, and son, there is nothing more important to me than serving others and helping our community overcome the challenges we face together to improve our quality of life. I have very strong convictions in my faith, my family, and being the very best public servant to our community. My convictions and the passion I have for serving our community make my commitment to running for public office possible. I consider myself to be a purpose-driven public servant with a unwavering commitment to serving others. Now more than ever, we need strong political leadership that is focused with a purpose to serve others above self. I believe the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office needs an important leadership change as evidenced by the criminal and ethical investigations witnessed during the past several years.
St. Lucie County has been my home for the past 27 years, and I care deeply about our community and our future: one that includes goals of becoming the safest county in the state of Florida, a better quality of life for all people, being fiscally responsible and making the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office the very best it can be.
After helping make Port St. Lucie the safest large city in Florida, I would consider it a great honor to use my passion for serving others and law enforcement experiences to better serve our community as sheriff and deliver on the hope and shared vision for a safer St. Lucie County.
What would be your top priority during your first year in office? Explain:
The top priorities during my first year in office will be restoring integrity, public trust, professionalism, accountability and transparency in the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office. Public trust and the integrity of law enforcement are critical elements to achieving the success we are working towards. However, the trust and integrity of the sheriff’s office was broken after a Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigation revealed that our former sheriff and current interim sheriff were involved in a corrupt ghost candidacy election in 2020. Our former sheriff later admitted his involvement in this investigation through a proposed stipulated resolution with the Florida Ethics Commission. Since being appointed in December 2023, our current interim sheriff has demonstrated a complete lack of professionalism by using arrestees as social media props resulting in criticism from both state and federal prosecutors due to undermining their ability to effectively prosecute criminal cases.
These actions have tarnished the reputation of the sheriff’s office and undermined the ability of the hard-working deputies to do their jobs effectively and with pride. As I have done throughout my career, I plan on being a professional law enforcement leader and sheriff with uncompromising integrity and values that will provide the necessary leadership and results to restore the public’s faith and trust in the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.
The office of the sheriff is the highest law enforcement position within our county and should be held to the highest standards and values. Core values are the foundation and guiding principles of any great organization, and the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office will be no different. From day one, our core values at the Sheriff’s Office will be built upon a commitment to top-down accountability, a standard of excellence, hard work, doing what is right, respect for others, being fair, integrity, transparency, and living by the “Golden Rule”.
Living up to these values will create an unwavering focus and direction for our mission to serve others, while at the same time inspiring our employees to achieve both personal and professional excellence. These values will establish trust with our community members and partners that will transform St. Lucie County into a place that is known for being safe, where there is a deep respect for the Constitution and the rights of all people, and where we all enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
What distinguishes you from your opponents in this race?
Values, education, experience, demonstrated ability, and the support of community leaders to include the brave men and women of the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.
By living out my values of hard work, integrity, excellence, and service to others, I have been blessed with the endorsements of the St. Lucie County Deputies Association, Congressman Brian Mast, State Attorney Thomas Bakkedahl, State Representative Toby Overdorf, the Florida Police Benevolent Association, the International Union of Police Associations, the Port St. Lucie Police Officers Association, the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Organizations, the AFL-CIO, the Hispanic Political Action Committee, and the St. Lucie County Republican Executive Committee.
Being a part of the executive command staff at the Port St. Lucie Police Department has provided me with invaluable experience with strategic planning, budgeting, overall policing operations and community engagement. Based on my performance, in 2023, I was named the Command Officer of the Year by the Florida Police Chiefs Association and recognized with a Congressional Award from Congressman Brian Mast for outstanding and invaluable service to our community.
I have also continued my personal and professional education by attaining my master’s degree in public administration and graduated from one of the most prestigious executive law enforcement schools in the country, the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville. In addition, I have completed thousands of hours of professional and specialized law enforcement training during my career.
The experience I have gained by making Port St. Lucie the safest large city in Florida for 13 straight years will be carried over to help make St. Lucie County the safest county in Florida. I have unmatched experience dealing with rapid population growth and delivering proven results regarding safety. Currently, unincorporated areas have a crime rate that is DOUBLE the crime rate in Port St. Lucie and the City of Fort Pierce has a crime rate that is THREE TIMES higher than the crime rate in Port St. Lucie. This is unacceptable to me as a law enforcement leader in our community. Every citizen deserves to live in a safe and prosperous community and be served by a law enforcement agency with the highest standards.
The Port St. Lucie Police Department is one of 800 out of 18,000 police agencies throughout our country that is internationally accredited, meaning we have implemented over 400 of the highest standards and best policies in policing. We are the only agency within St. Lucie County that is both internally and state accredited. I am committed to implementing these standards and policies to the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.
The time is right for a change in leadership and direction at the sheriff’s office. Our community and residents deserve nothing but the best and to be served by a law enforcement leader with the utmost professionalism and integrity that has delivered proven results. I possess the necessary skills, experience and abilities to lead the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office into the future and deliver on the dream and vision of a safer St. Lucie County.
Have you ever filed for bankruptcy? If yes, please explain: No
Link to campaign website or social media page:
County Commission, District 3 (Republican)
2020 Editorial Board recommendation
2016 Editorial Board recommendation
Video: 2020 Editorial Board interview
Linda Bartz, Port St. Lucie
Age: 73
Educational background:
Some College
Current occupation and work history:
St. Lucie County Commissioner, District 3 2016- PresentPort St. Lucie City Council 2006-2016/Vice Mayor 2010-2016Bank Vice President (Retired after 35 years)
Volunteer and civic engagement:
Council on Aging, Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers, Inner Truth Project, Boys and Girls Club of SLC, Councerned Citizens, Children's Services Council (Chair) HANDS Clinic, NACo (National Association of Counties) Justice and Public Safety Steering Committee, Roundtable of St. Lucie County, Safe Space, Opioid Abatement Funding Advisory Board, Value Adjustment Board (Chair) and have served on many other boards.
Why are you running for office?
St Lucie county is realizing victory after victory. Our county and our cities continuously find ourselves at the top of desirable places to live lists; Like Florida, St. Lucie County toursim is breaking record after record; Our airport is on the verge of receiving its Part 139 designation to allow Commercial Airline Service and we are in preliminary discussions about bringing commercial service to our airport; We've made critical investments in our port and the Mega-Yachts are sailing through. I am committed to ensuring new developments pay for themselves and not burden the existing residents and we work tirelessly on everything from culvert assistance programs helping our residents afford replacement culverts to shepherding a local bill with Rep. Trabulsy that will save this county millions of dollars annually on inmate medical costs. These are few highlights of the initiatives being worked on at this time and I would like to see these projects to completion.
What would be your top priority during your first year in office? Explain:
There is no "one" priority. There are many priorities that affect all of us every day. They are quality of life issues and they are equally important, such as taxes and lowering the millage, jobs and higher wages, affordable housing and protecting our enviornment. I have worked on all of these issues and will continue to work hard to ensure that all of these are addressed for our residents. If I had to chose one, I would continue finding ways to lower the millage as we have done for the past 4 years. We are not where I want to be yet on this years budget and I will continue to dissect every area to make sure we are lean while continuing to provide quality services that our residents need and enjoy.
What distinguishes you from your opponents in this race?
Experience and knowledge of our county, cities and issues distinguises me from my opponent. I am a 35 year resident of St. Lucie County, having raised my three children and now my granddaugher here. I have worked in the financial field for over 35 years locally and in other parts of Florida. St. Lucie County is growing, changing rapidily and we need seasoned leaders who have been in many aspects of our community. We need leaders who can and will make the tough decisions, based on factual information and keep the politics out. I continue to focus on our future, environment, infrastructure, economic development with fiscal responsibility. Having served on the PSL City Council and working with the City of Fort Pierce we are able to collaborate, coordinate and compromise to get the job done, so our residents countywide, can enjoy a safe, clean environment with high quality of life.
Have you ever filed for bankruptcy? If yes, please explain: NO
Link to campaign website or social media page:
Erin Lowry, Port St. Lucie
Age: 48
Educational background:
Bachelors In Elem. Education/ Bachelors Communication Science Disorders
Current occupation and work history:
Owner of The Barn at Oleander LLC, Wedding Venue Business 2019-current
Manage/Coordinate and Book Events and Weddings.
Speech Therapist
Sunshine Therapies 2023-current (as needed and available seasonly)
Solutions Therapies 2013-2022
Treasure Coast Christian Academy 2010-2012
St. Lucie County Schools (Substitute)2009-2010
Homemaker 2001-2009
St. Lucie County School District Elementary Educator-1999-2001
Volunteer and civic engagement:
Years volunteering at daughter's Competitive Dance Company- True Crew Dance Co.
Years Volunteering at son's sport leagues- Pop Warner Pirates/Southwest Baseball League
Centennial High School Football Booster Volunteer 2016-2019
John Carroll High School Football Volunteer 2019
Republican Club of St. Lucie County
Republican Executive Committee of St. Lucie County
Florida Agri-Tourism Association
Why are you running for office?
It is something that I have always had interest in. Our family has always supported other candidates. Finally, I am in the season of my life where my kids are grown and my business is established and flourishing and its is time for some change in SLC. I want to be the fresh new voice to represent what is in the best interest of voters! I will be bringing reasoning, cohesiveness, stability, and most of mutual respect back to the BOCC.
My experience in small business will be a great asset to the Commission, and I look forward to working as more of a team, FOR THE PEOPLE!
What would be your top priority during your first year in office? Explain:
My first priority will be to familiarize myself with staff and administration and develop a working relationship with all of the Commissioners. As I am educating myself with all things "County"related I want to look into and evaluate the County's budget and look to make sure it is running efficiently. I plan on finding creative ways to bring in revenue for the county, other than through taxes. My experience planning events and working with other businesses will help me be able to think outside the box in expanding opportunities for growing revenue for SLC.
What distinguishes you from your opponents in this race?
I am a public servant and leader that is ambitious to make a difference. My career has not been politically focused, therefore I have no agendas other than working for the people. I will be a full-time commissioner that is available and approachable to our residents. I have started a business from nothing and created success through business development and customer relations. Owning and operating a business builds many personal qualities that one whom has never done so will not ever obtain. I am a problem solver and have young adult children that make me concerned for the future of SLC. I am looking to do what is best for SLC and make a pathway of success for the future generations here. My opponent has a history of voting to raise taxes, is not a full time commissioner and has been in politics for close to 18 years, already two terms in this seat. It is simply time for change and time for a new vision for SLC.
Have you ever filed for bankruptcy? If yes, please explain: No
Link to campaign website or social media page:
County Commission, District 5 (Republican)
2020 Editorial Board recommendation
2016 Editorial Board recommendation
Video: 2020 Editorial Board interview
School Board, District 4 (nonpartisan)
2020 Editorial Board recommendation
2016 Editorial Board recommendation
Video: 2020 Editorial Board interview
Jennifer Richardson, Port St. Lucie
Age: 65
Educational background: Bachelor of Applied Science
Current occupation and work history:
Current Work History: St Lucie County School Board Member, this is the only job that I work at, there is a great learning curve and I want to make sure that I learn so that I can serve our community well.
Work History: Licensed Insurance Agent.
Volunteer and civic engagement:
Pre-COVID: Worked with at-risk children in Fort Pierce through my church. Fed the hungry and homeless. I fostered and rescued animals.
Why are you running for office?
I am running for office again, to remain the community's voice on the Board, advocating for programs and policies that support student well-being and achievement. I am passionate about ensuring every student receives a high-quality education that prepares them for success.
What would be your top priority during your first year in office? Explain:
I am prioritizing literacy. Reading is the foundation for learning, without this skill, it is impossible to access information in other subjects.
What distinguishes you from your opponents in this race?
I will tell you about me. I am a leader, I have the confidence and courage to stand alone Above all I have the compassion and empathy to listen to the needs of others.
Have you ever filed for bankruptcy? If yes, please explain: Yes, 1999
Link to campaign website or social media page:
Nate Spera, Port St. Lucie
Age: 60
Educational background:
Masters Degree in Public Administration, Troy University, Bachelors degree in Organizational Management.Warner University
Current occupation and work history:
Retired Fire Chief St. Lucie County Fire District, 32 year Fire Fighter/Paramedic. As Fire Chief, I was responsible for the management, budgeting, and operations of a government entity with a budget in excess of $100,000,000, with nearly 500 employees serving all of St. Lucie county. During my tenure as Fire Chief the Fire District became the only Internationally Accredited Fire Department between Orlando and Palm Beach Gardens. We are one of 267 Internationally Accredited Fire Departments out of approximately 42,000 in the United States. Furthermore, I lead the team that was instrumental in having the fire insurance protection rating improved for all county residents for the first time in a decade. During my tenure I was recognized in 2011 as the Florida State Professional Firefighter Of The Year by Governor Rick Scott.
Volunteer and civic engagement:
I have served on numerous community boards in St. Lucie County, including 19 years on the Board of the Boys and Girls Club of St. Lucie County.
I serve on the Board of the 100 Club of St. Lucie County which raises funds for first responders killed in the line of duty, and scholarships for local youth pursuing careers in public safety.
I am currently the Chair of the Treasure Coast Safety Village, which when operational, will provide safety education to children and seniors for St. Lucie County residents and all along the Treasure Coast.
I also serve as a Christmas4Kids Committee member which distributes Christmas gifts on Christmas Day throughout St. Lucie County. Furthermore, I continue to serve as a Fire Board Appointed Trustee on the St. Lucie County Fire District Fire Fighter Pension Board.
I have also previously served on the St. Lucie County Roundtable for five years.
Why are you running for office?
I feel that serving as a member of the school board will give me an opportunity to bring together my experience as an administrator and extensive experience serving on numerous boards in St. Lucie County. At the conclusion of my career, I still felt driven to serve our community in a greater capacity. I recognized that the school district has similar county wide responsibilities that I was familiar with in my previous occupation. Meeting the needs of this growing community after seeing it grow over the past three decades is something I am still passionate about.
What would be your top priority during your first year in office? Explain:
Focusing on core curriculum, reading, writing, and mathematics. Expanding career and technical education, and ensuring our youth have a safe environment for learning.
What distinguishes you from your opponents in this race?
I feel that I am distinguished from my opponent by my decades of commitment to numerous committees, nonprofits, and community boards throughout our county. Furthermore, my experience as an administrator and active board member will ensure a relatively short learning curve in accepting my new responsibilities at the school district. Additionally, I have a great deal of experience with our local legislative delegation in addressing the growing needs of our community.
Have you ever filed for bankruptcy? If yes, please explain: No
This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: 2024 Primary Election: St. Lucie County candidates' questionnaires
