Clewiston City Commission candidates compete in forum

Posted 10/18/20

The elected officials who serve as the Clewiston City consist of the mayor, vice mayor, and city commissioners.

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Clewiston City Commission candidates compete in forum

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CLEWISTON – The elected officials who serve as the Clewiston City consist of the mayor, vice mayor, and city commissioners. They set policies and rules by which the City is operated, including establishing goals and targeting issues as well as setting the tax rates.

The current members of the City of Clewiston City Commission are Mali Gardner, mayor; Michael Atkinson, vice mayor; Kristine Petersen, commissioner; Julio Rodriguez, commissioner; and Melanie McGahee, commissioner.

Three of the spots on the commission are on the Nov. 3 ballot. The 2020 Clewiston City Commission candidates are: Greg Thompson, Donald Hughes, James L. Pittman, and Mali Soto Gardner. All four candidates participated in an online Candidate Forum organized by the Clewiston Chamber of Commerce on Oct. 14, 2020. The forum was moderated by Chamber Director, Hillary Hyslope.

Current Mayor Mali Gardner explained she currently worked at First Bank in Clewiston, and had been employed there since 1979. “By working at a community bank I have realized the importance of that community relationship, of working with all sectors of the community, and just the strength that comes from a business community in our town. It’s been an amazing privilege to work there over these years, and just to continue to be able to give back into the community. Being allowed to do what I love to do, which is serving our town,” she said.

Next up for introductions was self-employed carpenter since 2006, Donald Hughes. He stated that his current employment was through his company, Flatland Builders, but prior to that he was employed with U.S. Sugar for 25 years. “Being in business for myself I understand the importance of planning, budgeting, seeking the best product for the dollar, following through, making a project that is complete in a timely manner with no wasteful spending- these are some of the qualifications I feel our city needs to move forward,’ said Hughes.

James Pittman started by saying he was born in what used to be named Hendry General Hospital, 60 years ago, and is currently self-employed with his company, Pittman Contracting. “At one point in our business we had over 100 employees, during the height of our business,” said Pittman, “So, I think that brings a lot to the table for helping to run the city. Planning, budgeting, completion of jobs, and also working with people. We have worked with hundreds and hundreds of people over the years, that you have to get along with to get the job done. So, I believe those things, that experience brings a lot to the tablet for the city.”

Greg Thompson has lived in Clewiston for 40 years, and worked in U.S. Sugar for 28 of those years. “My recent employer was Machinist and Aerospace Workers. I’m currently laid off because of COVID, amongst over 10 million other American workers, as we speak, unfortunately. My work experience has allowed me to work with people from diverse backgrounds, different perspectives. It has made me learn how to build coalitions, consensus amongst groups that would not normally come to agreements, budgeting. It has also allowed me to lobby the Senate and House both federal and state levels. Sugar policies, farm bills, and many, numerous work and family issues. I think that allows me to work with a diverse group as a commission, to listen to people’s perspectives. We all have different thoughts, different insights, and I think it makes a strong commission to have diversity, have different life skills, education. We can work together and move this city forward.

Hyslope then asked each of the candidates, “Why are you running for city commission?”

Donald Hughes said he wanted to help bring economic growth to the city. “I want to help make this city a better place to work, play, and live.” He said that he and his wife have been very involved in civic activities for many years. He added, “Over the years I have seen a lot of changes, but the biggest change I have seen is the closing of businesses and people leaving. Also, the recreational programs have gone away.” As a city commissioner he promises to fight for economic growth, and eliminate unnecessary spending.

James Pittman, a lifelong resident and with the Clewiston Volunteer Fire Department for 29 years, also previously on the commission for 17 years, has decided to comeback after a leave of absence because, “The city needs experienced leadership to move us forward.” He added, “Really, its because I love this community.” He described himself as fiscally conservative and plans to use his skills and experience to improve the city.

Greg Thompson said, “Since I no longer work shift work, I felt this would be a good time. I want to contribute to my community, make sure there is positive growth. Not just growth but positive growth. We’re Clewiston, not West Palm Beach or Fort Myers. I want to see the city grow in the right direction.” Thompson also spoke of finding and implementing solutions to problems that exist by working together with other commissioners. He spoke of making sure that everyone, especially working families, have a seat or voice at the table.

Mali Gardner, explained that the city has had some struggles, but all rural communities have struggles and she was focused on continuing to build a better future for the city. “I know without a shadow of doubt, that there are decisions that have been made to prepare us for a better future, and I am thankful that I have been a part of that, and I want to continue to see that brighter future. That’s why I am running for and seeking re-election in 2020.” She also spoke of preserving the character of the town, and continuing to stand up for the community’s best interest. “The best days are yet ahead of us.”

All of the candidates mentioned the importance of careful planning, smart budgeting, growth, and diversity while maintaining the identity of a small rural town.

Members of the City Commission are elected at-large and this year the election will be held during the Hendry County General Election on November 3, 2020. Three commissioners will be elected; the two candidates receiving the highest vote total are elected for a four-year term and the third candidate is elected for a two-year term. City Commission candidates must be registered voters of the City and must have resided within the corporate limits for one year at time of election qualification, and if elected, continue to reside within the City during their full term of office.

Regular commission meetings are held on the first and third Monday of each month, starting at 5:30 p.m. in the city hall commission chambers, 115 West Ventura Avenue. During the first regular meeting in December, the City Commission holds an Organizational Meeting and will appoint by majority vote, the mayor and vice mayor. The mayor is recognized as the head of government for all ceremonial purposes. The vice mayor shall serve in the absence of the Mayor.

Hughes participate in the forum with audio only.

To watch the forum go online to:  https://www.facebook.com/clewistonchamber/

city commission, candidates, election

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