CHARLES SMITH’S QUALIFICATIONS TO BECOME MAYOR IS UNMATCHED
It is rare to be able to write an editorial that is expected to contain bias yet is completely rooted in facts.
Charles Smith is a lifelong resident of Palmetto, Florida. He has spent his entire adult life serving the citizens of Manatee County and of Palmetto, Florida. As a successful business owner, Charles first made his mark on the political scene by becoming the first African American elected to the Palmetto City Commission where he also served as Vice Mayor during his tenure. Charles went on to serve the community as a Manatee County Commissioner. During his tenure, he served as the 2nd Vice Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners, Chairman of the Safety Coordinating Council, and as a Port Authority Commissioner where he played a key role in overseeing our seaports. Charles is skillful, certified, and trained in all aspects of government.
Charles Smith faces as an opponent in the November 5th election, Dan West, the nephew of the outgoing Mayor Shirley Groover-Bryant. According to Dan West’s campaign website, he has been an agriculture teacher, manager of the Manatee County Fair, and is currently the Executive Director of the Florida Federation of Fairs.
While we all enjoy the heart racing rides along with corn dogs and elephant ears at the county fair, the manager of the fair cannot be expected to carry out the serious business of government that includes improving housing conditions, expanding our police force, and moving our community into a smart growth economy which is a way to build up the city of Palmetto in a way that is economically prosperous, socially equitable, and environmentally sustainable. This is the vision that we and our future generations need to attract talent and make the City of Palmetto an example of small-town progress and sustainability.
Let’s face it, Dan West could never! While he is commended on managing the county fair once a year and making sure that we all enjoy ourselves, Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant being his auntie does not qualify him to lead, protect, and move the City of Palmetto into the future.
On November 5th, vote against nepotism and inexperience.
