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The Freedom Forum Questions & Answers with Jackie Burkett From: Jazman Jackie, on the 28th, we will see who you really stand for. Will it be for the people? Jazman Questions & Answers with Jackie Burkett Q. What are the three biggest challenges facing the Okaloosa County Commission? Jackie: (1) Management of our water. I'm referring to both the supply of fresh water for our consumption and the handling of the treated wastewater and stormwater runoff that is flowing into our bays, bayous and waterways. (2) Making wise decisions about large capital improvements, such as the proposed conference center, judicial facility and jail. (3) Establishing a new confidence in county government. Q. How are you different from your opponents?? Jackie: I bring a record of documented local and area wide accomplishments that are current and relevant to the important tasks that a county commissioner must deal wisely with to be effective. My experience is extensive in areas of enormous importance, including water, wastewater, stormwater, solid waste, roads, traffic, bridges, and the planning aspects of all these areas. Also, I have a reputation as an honest, respected leader and team builder, qualities that a commissioner must have in order to get the other two votes necessary to make things happen on the Board. Q. What is your position on the proposed conference center? Jackie: I’m opposed to building it on public property with public funds. What’s more, I’m opposed to building anything without the proper infrastructure in place. If the conference center is built as planned, there could be a traffic nightmare on Okaloosa Island. Q. What if is it is built? Jackie: If the new commission is unable to stop construction of the conference center, no other candidate is better qualified than me to help solve the problems the facility is likely to create. Q. What is your position on the proposed one penny increase in the sales tax? Jackie: I believe I am the only candidate for commissioner that is totally opposed to this tax. New development has increased our tax rolls. I believe that with good planning and budgeting, we can take care of our needs without raising taxes. Q. How do you feel about voter referendums? Jackie: Okaloosa County citizens are very vocal about issues that they want to have a direct decision in addressing (for example, the proposed conference center). As an elected official, I will recognize and support the people of Okaloosa County when they want to have a say in things. Q. Is enough factual information being made available to the public? Jackie: I believe our county commissioners are obligated to provide voters with easy to understand, unbiased, factual information about major county projects. Regular public hearings are not enough. Neighborhood meetings with commissioners and staff, and televised town hall meetings that allow input and feedback in a less structured forum are much better and would be more productive. Also, I would like to see a citizen's advisory committee formed that would work closely with the County Commission. Q. If elected, will you be a full time commissioner? Jackie: Yes. Absolutely. I don’t know how to do anything part time or half way. Have other questions? E-mail Jackie at jackie@jackieburkett.com ______ Last changed: March 04, 2008
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