Nancy Epps, 61
Ponce Inlet
Medical Laboratory Compliance Consultant
Challenger
Q. What do you see as the biggest issue for the office you are seeking?
A. Economic development - bringing in well-paying jobs - is the county's biggest issue. I believe the County Council should focus on a cooperative effort among the many economic development entities in our area, not just a favored few. Vital to this effort are the workforce training programs available here.
Q. What are your qualifications for the office you are seeking?
A. I have both the governmental and business experience needed. During my tenure as mayor of Ponce Inlet, the town's budget was cut by 28.4 percent (more than $2 million.) I have a master's degree in business administration and have managed 45 employees and a $4 million budget in the private sector.
Q. If you win, what's the first issue you will tackle?
A. Economic development plus specific issues as they arise, such as the Ocean Center, Sun Rail, beach safety and the funding of social services. I have a list of 12 priorities as a result of my lengthy history of community service and all are important to our various communities.
Q. If you lose, will you continue in politics?
A. Maybe not in politics per se, but I certainly will continue my volunteer community service. It's been a part of me for the past 14 years and is even reflected in my career choice - healthcare - that has been focused on caring for and about people.