Ready to vote, Palmetto? Three candidates vie for one spot on city commission

There are three candidates vying for one at-large seat on Palmetto city commission in the upcoming general election.

Sheldon Jones, Alice Kaddatz and Matthew Kezar will each seek to win their first-ever term as a city official.

The vacancy on the five-seat commission is left by Jonathan L. Davis, who is running for Palmetto mayor.

Jones says that he wants to bring more accountability to city government, including a focus on training, resources and diversity for city departments and equitable use of resources throughout the city’s districts. Other top goals include incentivizing small businesses to open in Palmetto and improving infrastructure.

Kaddatz is also keen to improve Palmetto’s infrastructure, according to previous statements made to the Bradenton Herald, as well as focus on “smart growth” for the city and keep current projects rolling. She has also said that schools would be a top priority for her as a commissioner.

Kezar’s given plans for Palmetto hinge on diversity, education, and attracting businesses to increase the city’s tax base. Another primary goal is attracting new residents with the creation of jobs and quality and affordable housing, according to the candidate.

Jones and Kezar are neck and neck in campaign fundraising, according to elections office records. Kezar has raised $11,840 in contributions with expenditures of $7,284, while Jones has raised $10,281 in contributions with expenditures of $9,054. Kaddatz trails behind with contributions of $900 and expenditures of $389.

Candidate platforms

The Bradenton Herald gave the candidates an opportunity to respond to a range of questions about their goals for public service. Here are their answers.

As commissioner, what would be a few of your top priorities for Palmetto? What are some potential areas of improvement for the city?

Jones: Top three priorities: Business development, infrastructure improvements and accountability, which are all of equal importance.

Business development: The goal is to attract new businesses in downtown Palmetto but to also uplift our current businesses. I’d like to hold an annual business summit for the city so we can encourage people to shop local and bring awareness to our hometown businesses and industries. The people of Palmetto would like to see a more thriving and bustling downtown business district in Palmetto.

Infrastructure improvements: This would include fixing the prevalent flooding issues in Palmetto. I would like to focus on installing more streetlights so that people feel safer moving about their neighborhoods but also to help deter crime, which could help our police officers. Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) along with our beautification efforts should go hand in hand.

Accountability: I want to make sure that the people of Palmetto feel as though they are connected with their elected officials and City of Palmetto staff and police department. I want to make sure our staff and police officers are well trained and have the resources that they need to do their jobs effectively and safely.

Kaddatz: The City of Palmetto has several projects currently underway. Moving them forward without delay is important. I would also like the commissioners to make a decision on what to do with city/Community Redevelopment Agency owned property, and I have heard from several people that there needs to be more parking around the boat ramp.

Kezar: Palmetto is going through an unprecedented growth phase and will need to address infrastructure needs. I believe it is critical to increase our tax base without increasing our tax burden.

How do you plan to achieve those goals?

Jones: For these large-scale plans, the only way to get these things done is through partnerships. I want to work closely with the Community Redevelopment Agency, city government and current commissioners to prioritize these items. I’d also like to identify grants and other funding opportunities to expedite these projects.

Kaddatz: As far as achieving these goals, I will be one of five making these decisions. I will fight for the things I believe the people of Palmetto want, as I always have.

Kezar: To do this, it is my plan to attract businesses to our community, address our vacancy rates, and proactively seek quality residential development. I have spent my entire professional career in the real estate industry working with local communities and municipalities to do exactly this. My expertise in these areas will contribute greatly to Palmetto’s future growth plans and the goal of reducing the tax burden.

What makes you the right person for this position?

Jones: I’m relatable, budget-conscious and open-minded. I’m able to connect with a wide group of diverse constituents, but especially the everyday citizen. I listen and understand and am able to build relationships with residents and those I work with. I’m the only candidate who has had a successful small business with no financial problems. I understand that budgets, management and collaboration help develop the best result.

Kaddatz: I have attended City meetings most of my adult life, rather steadily for the past several years. Many times being the only one there. I have always had an interest in what has been going on in my City. I have served on boards and committees in the past, as well as helping with animal rescue.

Kezar: As a West Point graduate with a degree in Engineering Management, I have a life-long record of proven leadership and a belief in traditional, American values. I have spent my professional life as a developer of affordable housing and commercial real estate. Palmetto is currently going through a growth phase, and I believe my expertise in this area will contribute to our community’s plan moving forward.

If elected, how do you plan to stay in tune with the needs of your constituents and community?

Jones: Elected officials need to be seen and heard throughout the time in office — not just during the campaign time. People are on different schedules and I’d like to do what is most convenient for the residents of Palmetto. This means I’ll be in touch via email, open town halls, virtually through video-conferencing apps and physical newsletters should there be a need for them. I want to have a pulse of what the community needs are and the only way to do taht by getting out of the office and meeting with the people at their businesses or neighborhoods.

Kaddatz: Palmetto is my home and has been for four generations. I live in the house my grandfather built, raised my six children here and now my grandchildren. I will stay in touch with the people by continuing to live in Palmetto, shopping its stores and driving its streets.

Kezar: I am a community-based person and have been my entire life. Being the only candidate who is a member of the Palmetto Tiger Boosters Association, I am involved in the community every day, both professionally and personally. Even prior to the election, I have continuous meetings with the CRA and City of Palmetto leadership. Additionally, I have been instrumental in bringing new businesses into Palmetto and intend to continue to help create jobs for the hardworking people of our community. My personal cell number (941-720-1973) is posted on signs throughout the community, and I am available to my constituents.

How do you envision the future of the Palmetto?

Jones: I see the future of the city as still having a small hometown atmosphere with a twist of family and fun atmosphere. The City of Palmetto is a great city to live, grow and retire in. I envision that there be a mix of activities and diversity that will entertain all ages and encourage them to build everlasting connections in our community.

Kaddatz: New needs to blend with what we already have.

Kezar: Palmetto is a community that is blessed with wonderful people who are committed. Moving forward, I see Palmetto continuing in the same tradition that it has been but with more progressive growth and longer-term vision toward infrastructure and housing.

What makes Palmetto a special place to you?

Jones: Palmetto will always be special to me. Being the fourth generation in my family to have been blessed to grow up here in the City of Palmetto, I’m inspired by what the city used to be, what the city is currently and what it could be. The history, the hometown feeling and the possibilities of what this city can be makes it a jewel that many people have called home. I’ve never considered living anywhere else.

Kaddatz: Palmetto is a special place. I want to help preserve that small town feel.

Kezar: My wife and I have made the decision to make Palmetto our home and to raise our children in this community. As a son of a minister, Reverend Dennis Kezar, I have been raised in an atmosphere of service, committing my life to contributing to my country and to my community in the private sector. This is the right time to transition my service in the public sector to the city I love.

Is there anything else that you want voters to know?

Jones: I will work hard and tirelessly for you. Our city needs someone who will listen and not be afraid to come out of their office and meet with residents. I am the candidate that will not only listen, but act. I’m red, white and blue and I’m here to represent you!

Kaddatz: I am a military mom. My oldest son is currently serving, so I have an understanding of the needs of our service men.

Kezar: I love this town and hope to be able to serve it well. Below is a list of some of organizations I have participated in.

• Chairman’s Council of the Manatee County Economic Development Council
• Recognition by the Gulf Coast Business Review as a “Top 40, Under 40 Business Leader”
• Former Board Member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Manatee County, Father Kezar Opening Doors Foundation, Bradenton Yacht Club and Our Daily Bread Soup Kitchen
• Helping Young People Excel (H.Y.P.E.) “Unsung Hero” award, “In appreciation of your commitment and dedication to the community;”
• Rated “highly qualified” by the Christian Family Coalition Florida.

About the candidates

Jones, 53, is a fourth-generation Palmetto resident, U.S. Army veteran and former small business owner who currently works as a mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, where he served on a diversity committee for the agency and then became a local union representative for postal workers, according to his campaign website. Jones is a foster parent and a coordinator with food charity Stamp Out the Hungry.

Kaddatz, 60, is a fourth-generation Palmetto resident with small business experience and a regular attendee at Palmetto commission and other local government meetings, according to the candidate. She took part in a successful lawsuit against the Manatee County school district in the Roderick Frazier case in 2016. Kaddatz is a mother of six whose oldest son currently serves in the military. She has volunteered in the schools as well as with animal rescue efforts.

Kezar, 49, is a Tennessee native and parent of two with ties to Manatee County since childhood, according to his campaign website. He is a U.S. Army veteran and currently works as a real state broker with Ian Black Real Estate in Sarasota. His resume includes executive experience, work as a builder and developer of commercial real estate and affordable housing and a five-year stint as a teacher and coach. He has been involved in numerous community organizations, including the establishment of an education scholarship foundation.