Why am I running?
Port Orange has been my home for 25 years. I plan to live here another 25 years. This community has been the finest place that I have lived -- safe, clean, affordable, and easy to get around. I have watched this community grow and prosper over the last two decades. Most of the growth has been positive. However, in recent years there are some emerging concerns that must be addressed if Port Orange is to continue to maintain its current high quality of life. Port Orange is currently at a crossroads. With my experience and training, I believe that I can work toward assuring that decisions are made that will protect the positive qualities that make Port Orange a great place to live.
Why should you vote for Bob Ford?
Through education and experience, Bob Ford will bring to the council important skills and expertise:
- Knows City Government : Understands Port Orange Government and the issues. Served as Chief of Police in Port Orange from 1986 until retiring in late 1999. Has continued to be involved in the city since retirement as the President of the Halifax/Riverside Homeowners Association.
- Understands Municipal Finance: Currently teaches public safety finance in graduate seminars at the University of Central Florida. Has taught budget preparation/execution for the State of Florida for police managers.
- Experienced in Public Safety: Can bring to the council special expertise in police and fire. Served as a sworn police officer and police administrator, and was a volunteer fireman (Colden, New York) and emergency medical technician. Fire and police services currently account for more than 50% of the city's general fund expenditures.
- Knows the Community: Has served on numerous boards in the area over the last 25 years, including the Port Orange/ South Daytona Chamber of Commerce, Halifax Hospital Community Board, President-Halifax/Riverside Homeowners Association, Volusia/Flagler Public Safety Council, Florida Department of Children and Families' Community Board, First Step, Volusia/Flagler Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Regional Board.
- Experienced as a Councilman: Served previously as a councilman in the Town of Colden, New York. Understands the role and position of the council in municipal government.
- Access to Expertise: As a professor at the University of Central Florida works closely with the Department of Public Administration. Will be able to access experts outside of city government to assist council problem solving.
- Understands Emerging Technologies: The city increasingly relies on information systems and Internet-based technologies to automate its functions. Bob Ford understands information management and key emerging technologies. He served as President of a law enforcement technology association. He will be able to make informed decisions.
- Experienced in Grant Administration: Federal and State grants provide an important source of funding for the City of Port Orange. Bob Ford is experienced at both obtaining and administering grants. During his tenure at the UCF, he was involved in securing and administrating almost one million dollars in grants.
Bob Ford will also bring to the council:
- Environmental Awareness
- A Concern for Quality of Life and Neighborhood Preservation
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A Fiscally Balanced Approach to Spending and Taxes
- A Focus on Community Wellness and Sustainability