Tag Archives: ken cornell

Local election results not bad

by Joe Courter

Regarding local election results, Alachua County saw a rejection of the transportation tax thanks to a drumbeat of mistrust and anti- tax sentiment, putting further behind the long put-off road work and a squeeze on other local programs.

But, on the plus side, Ken Cornell was soundly elected to the County Commission, and John Power elected as Tax Collector. Marihelen Wheeler ran well in the County, but with a gerrymandered district that is overwhelmingly Republican, she could not defeat Ted Yoho for Congress. Likewise, for Jon Uman’s loss to Keith Perry for State House. They ran strong, progressive campaigns, but the demographics and lazy mid-term turnout hurt their chances.

The non-binding straw ballot issue on corporate personhood was overwhelming favored; congrats to all who worked hard to get this on the ballot. Statewide, the Springs initiative passed. Lots of locally based work and support went into getting it on the ballot, and it’s a big win for the State. Kudos to all who made that happen. Medical Marijuana fell just short from passing Statewide, but that almost 58 percent said “Yes” shows people want it. Maybe some courage will be shown in the Legislature. Maybe…

The next issue of the Iguana in January will preview the March City of Gainesville election.

Iguana Ballot Recommendations

by Joe Courter

VOTE! It really matters, especially in local races. It will be a major upset thanks to Republican gerrymandering, but Marihelen Wheeler knocking out Ted “Little Millionaire” Yoho would be really sweet.

Please help this campaign if you can, in whatever way you can. Dumping Rick Scott and Pam Bondi would be beyond sweet; both of them are disasters on so many fronts. Crist and Sheldon will be vast improvements.

ballot boxRegarding the Chief Financial Officer, a fresh start and new eyes on the books would be good, though I don’t know of any major complaints on Atwater. Kinda feel the same re Agriculture Commissioner. Many of you will have the chance to vote out Keith Perry and put in a strong progressive in — Jon Uman, another gerrymandered uphill fight. John Power will be an excellent replacement for Von Fraser; he worked with Von throughout his incredible tenure, and will carry on the practice of actively helping people avoid foreclosures.

Regarding the County Commission, bring along a pen and write in Harry Patterson for District 2 and mark the box for Ken Cornell in District 4. He will be a great replacement to Susan Baird and keep the county Commission moving in a positive direction.

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