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Holly Houghton retires
from Dixie County Extension

Among the many people celebrating the occasion are Dixie County Chamber of Commerce members and leaders seen here and they are (from left) Christine Smith, Terri Jenkins, Dr. Linda Stoddard, Charlotte Lord, Holly Houghton, Chris Barber, Carol West, John Cherry and Kyndal Bussard.

Information and Photos Provided
By Dixie County Chamber of Commerce
Published July 29, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.
     CROSS CITY – Several people gathered in the large conference room of the Dixie County Public Library on Monday evening (July 27) to celebrate the long career of University of Florida Institute of Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Dixie County Extension Director Holly Houghton, who also served as the 4-H Youth Development agent and Natural Resources agent – and much more.

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     After 37 years of faithful service to Dixie County and area youth, she is retiring. The Dixie Education Foundation, Dixie County Rotary Club, Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition and Dixie County Board of County Commissioners and staff members gathered to show their appreciation for Houghton’s dedicated service in numerous avenues focusing on area youth 4-H, and the Suwanee River Fair and Livestock Show and Sales, Fair but also her assistance with technology – including by helping with websites, platforms and coding.


In this photo of people celebrating Director Holly Houghton’s retirement from UF/IFAS Dixie County Extension are (from left) County IT and 9-1-1 Communications Director Scotty Pendarvis; County Commission Chairman Mark Hatch; County Manager John Jenkins; Economic Development Liaison Karen VanAernam; Extension Director Houghton; Kyndal Bussard; County Manager Administrator Martha McCaskill (who also serves as the Grants Coordinator and Fair Housing Coordinator); County Court Judge Jennifer Johnson; Emergency Services Director Darian Brown; Property Appraiser Robert A. Lee; and Assistant County Manager Roy Bass.


Among the many organizations where Holly Houghton helped with technical issues is the Dixie County Anti-Drug Coalition (DCADC). Seen here are on either side of Houghton are DCADC Executive Director Katrina VanAernam (left) and Sheila Frierson, RN.

     Houghton even wrote a computer program to track student scholarship donors and recipients saving the Education Foundation thousands of dollars. 
     The event was a wonderful time with delicious food. Everyone expressed their gratitude for all that Houghton has contributed to helping children, the agricultural community and really all of the Tri-County Area during her four decades of cooperative public service where she went beyond the call.

Old Town Marine remembered
Navy Cross recipient not likely
to be reconsidered for Medal of Honor

By Jeff M. Hardison © July 24, 2026 at 9 a.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     DIXIE COUNTY – A former City of Fanning Springs resident said he received a note from a cousin and that led to him wonder about the potential for a renewed effort to have the Medal of Honor awarded posthumously to a man who spent his last three years of life in Old Town (Dixie County).
     Guy Louis Gabaldon (March 22, Aug. 31, 2006) was a member of the United States Marine Corps during World War Two (WWII).
     He died at the age of 80 in his home in Old Town (Dixie County).
     Gabaldon was a Mexican American hero who, at the age 18, single-handedly persuaded in excess of 1,500 Japanese soldiers and civilians to surrender during the 1944 Battle of Saipan and Battle of Tinian.
     Private First Class Gabaldon received an honorable discharge from the Marine Corps as a result of his combat wounds, according to records. He had been hit by machinegun fire, according to records. 
     Decades later, in 1960, the USMC elevated Gabaldon’s Silver Star Medal to Gabaldon The Navy Cross, the second highest United States military decoration for valor.
     Gabaldon was recommended for the Medal of Honor by his commanding officer Captain John Schwabe, who noted that Gabaldon single-handedly captured more than ten times the number of prisoners taken by legendary Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Alvin C. York in World War I. Despite this recommendation, Gabaldon was awarded a Silver Star Medal, which later was upgraded to The Navy Cross.
     Gabaldon grew up in eastern Los Angeles, where he learned Japanese by living as a foster child with a Japanese American family after leaving his home at the age of 11. He used this skill, during his service as a USMC interpreter, along with some unorthodox tactics, to sneak behind enemy lines and negotiated surrenders of the Japanese in those battles, according to records. He gained the nickname “The Pied Piper of Saipan.”
     NBC News reported that Gabaldon used his elementary knowledge of Japanese in 1944 to present bribes of cigarettes and candy, and trickery with tales of encampments surrounded by American troops, to persuade soldiers to abandon their posts and to surrender. His actions were part of the 1960 movie Hell to Eternity, according to records.
     The citation for The Navy Cross presented to USMC PFC Gabaldon in 1960 noted it was “For extraordinary heroism while serving with Headquarters and Service Company, Second Marines, Second Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan and Tinian, Mariana Islands, South Pacific Area, from 15 June to 1 August 1944. Acting as a Japanese Interpreter for the Second Marines, Private First Class GABALDON displayed extreme courage and initiative in single-handedly capturing enemy civilian and military personnel during the Saipan and Tinian operations. Working alone in front of the lines, he daringly entered enemy caves, pillboxes, buildings, and jungle brush, frequently in the face of hostile fire, and succeeded in not only obtaining vital military information, but in capturing well over one thousand enemy civilians and troops. Through his valiant and distinguished exploits, Private First Class GABALDON made an important contribution to the successful prosecution of the Campaign and, through his efforts, a definite humane treatment of civilian prisoners was assured. His courageous and inspiring devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.”
     Rodger Nogaki, 86, contacted daily news publisher Jeff M. Hardison to say that he felt USMC PFC Gabaldon should be awarded the Medal of Valor, posthumously, which triggered some research and a story.
     If Gabaldon had been awarded the Medal of Honor, he would not be the first Mexican American to accept it, according to records.
     The Medal of Honor was introduced during the Civil War and is the highest military decoration presented by the United States government to a member of its armed forces. The recipient must have distinguished themselves at the risk of their own life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an enemy of the United States. Due to the nature of this medal, it is commonly presented posthumously, according to records.
     Sixty-one men of Hispanic heritage have been awarded the Medal of Honor. Of the 61 Medals of Honor presented to Hispanics, two were presented to members of the United States Navy, 13 to members of the USMC and 46 to members of the United States Army. Forty-two of these Medals of Honor presentations were posthumous, according to records.
     Five of the 61 Hispanic heritage recipients of the Medal of Honor were born in Mexico, according to records. Nogaki said he feels Gabaldon should have received the Medal of Honor. Gabaldon is of Mexican heritage. Nogaki is of Japanese American heritage.
     There were fewer of Medal of Honor recipients from Japanese American heritage in comparison to those of Hispanic heritage, according to records.
     A total of 21 Japanese Americans have received the Medal of Honor, according to records; but there are caveats to those awards being presented.
     All 21 of those were awarded for their exceptional valor during World War II while serving in the famed 100th Infantry Battalion or the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, according to records.
     Nogaki said 10 of those 21 Japanese Americans who received the Medal of Honor spent time in the internment camps, which Nogaki calls “concentration camps.” And records show he is correct about those 10 valiant men who earned those honors.
     Many historians, civil rights advocates, and survivors use the term “concentration camps” to accurately describe these sites, rejecting the United States government’s euphemistic “relocation” or “internment” labels. Among the most famous people who spent time in an American concentration camp is George Takei, who is still alive, according to records. The 89-year-old actor and activist, famously known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the Star Trek franchise, was born on April 20, 1937, according to records.
     This painful part of American history, concentration camps during WWII, highlights a profound paradox: many of the most decorated Japanese Americans who fought for the United States enlisted directly out of these very camps, with several families losing everything while their sons fought for the nation.
     As Nogaki and others have mentioned, several Japanese American recipients  of the Medal of Honor and notable figures, like Takei, endured this incarceration.
     Only one of these medals, awarded to Private First-Class Sadao S. Munemori, was presented contemporaneously in 1946.
     The remaining 20 Japanese American recipients were originally awarded the Army’s Distinguished Service Cross, but following a congressional review, they were upgraded to the Medal of Honor by President Bill Clinton in 2000. Notable among these recipients is former U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye (1924–2012) of Hawaii. Inouye lost his arm in combat in Italy.
     Receiving the Medal of Honor posthumously requires an act of conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in combat, performed at the risk of life, above and beyond the call of duty. The nomination must be submitted by the chain of command within three years of the action, or through a special congressional waiver.
     The rigorous, 18-month-plus adjudication process entails the following phases:
     ● Field Investigation: The collection of detailed eyewitness statements, battlefield accounts, and official logs verifying the exact sequence of events.
     ● Chain of Command Review: The nomination must pass through the military hierarchy, including departmental decoration boards, the Secretary of the Military Department, and the Secretary of Defense.
     ● Presidential Approval: The President of the United States, acting on behalf of Congress, gives the final signature
     ● Next of Kin Presentation: Once approved, the medal is typically presented by the president at a White House ceremony to the late service member's designated next of kin.
     Although Gabaldon was seen to have merited the honors during his service, as noted by commanding officers during WWII, the odds of him receiving it posthumously are not good.
     The 86-year-old Nogaki has an experience from WWII as a Japanese American that was experienced by many other individuals and families, too, during WWII -- being sent to a concentration camp. 
     To see the Feb. 7, 2016 story and photo from the story with the headline -- Fanning Springs resident shares experiences from being a child of Japanese ancestry in America after the invasion of Pearl Harbor – click HERE.

County commission candidates
respond to questions posed by press

By Jeff M. Hardison © July 22, 2026 at 7:30 a.m.
Updated July 23, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     TRI-COUNTY AREA – Twelve men and one woman are seeking to fill four County Commission seats in the Tri-County Area of Levy, Gilchrist and Dixie counties.
     Three of those four races will be decided through the Aug. 18 primary election. One Republican Party candidate will be eliminated from the November race for Levy County Commission District 2, where there will be one Democrat, one Ecology Party candidate and one Republican running in the general election in November. Nine of the 12 responded.
     Last month, HardisonInk.com owner and publisher Jeff M. Hardison sent the candidates the following questions:
1. Why do you want to be a county commissioner?
2. Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a county commissioner?
3. What do you see as the three most important issues, ranking them from first through third for this county, and that you believe you can either completely solve or make enough of an impact to be noticed as progressing toward a positive end result?
     If a candidate failed to respond before 7 a.m. on July 22 to the questions sent to the candidates, then they are noted as “non-responsive.” Following are their answers unedited, and the pictures they sent are published with them, too.

LEVY COUNTY
County Commissioner, District 2
Lincoln Cannon (DEM)

1. Why do you want to be a county commissioner?
     I want to be a county commissioner because I believe my 27 years of experience working for Levy County would be an asset to the commission and the residents. During that time, I have gained experience with departmental budgets, daily operations, equipment needs, and the responsibility of making sure taxpayers’ money is spent wisely.
     Levy County will face some difficult decisions in the coming years. These include possible changes to property tax revenue, continued growth, and the possibility of large-scale data centers attempting to locate in our county. I want to be part of those decisions because I have lived in Levy County all my life. I care about its future, and I want to protect the rural character that makes it a special place to live.
2. Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a county commissioner?
     I currently have a full-time job with Levy County, but if I am elected county commissioner, I will have to resign from my position. Serving as county commissioner would then become my full-time job. I also work on a farm some Fridays, but that would not interfere with my responsibilities as a commissioner.
3. What do you see as the three most important issues, ranking them from first through third for this county, and that you believe you can either completely solve or make enough of an impact to be noticed as progressing toward a positive end result?
     The most important issue facing the county is the budget. Whether the proposed homestead exemption changes pass or not, we need to carefully separate the needs of each department from its wants. We should first ask what is necessary to provide services to residents. We should then consider whether requested equipment, trucks, trailers, software, tools, or other purchases would truly benefit the county or help employees provide services faster, safer, or more effectively.
     The second most important issue is making sure county departments are being run effectively. Tasks should be completed in a timely manner, employees should have clear expectations, and there should be good communication and working relationships between management, employees, the commission, and residents.
     The third major issue is large-scale data centers. After researching the issue, I believe Levy County needs to focus on the possible effects these facilities could have on our water supply, power grid, environment, roads, emergency services, and nearby residents. The current moratorium gives the county time to research the issue and develop land-use policies that protect Levy County and preserve its rural character.
     I believe that with time, effort, and dedication, a positive impact can be made on all of these issues.
Emily Casey (ECO)

1. Why do you want to be a county commissioner? 
    I have always been passionate about protecting our environment. After graduating from UF in agriculture, I started to work as an Environmental Health Inspector. This gave me experience in soil evaluation for septic systems and well placement, building site compatibility, also food safety. After obtaining a master's in science education I taught science and math in local schools. Simultaneously I pursued my passion for environmental protection of the Nature Coast.  I have taken an active role for many years in protecting this area from large developments, incorrect placement of sand mines, two nuclear power plants, toll roads, degradation of area springs and water extraction, saving “surplus lands” from being sold off by water management districts. I have participated in many BoCC meetings for years and recently attended all the 2050 Comp Plan Workshops. Since the need for me being a fulltime caregiver no longer exist, I have decided to pursue my passion again and use my scientific environmental expertise to guide Levy County in the direction the county residents want to go by being your next county commissioner.  
2.) Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a county commissioner? 
       Being your county commissioner would be my full-time job. I am a retired science and math teacher. This allows me the ability to devote my full attention to all residents of Levy County. I will have time to travel around the county and listen to everyone's needs and ideas. I will have the time to read and research thoroughly the many issues that come before the board on any given day. 
3.) What do you see as the three most important issues, ranking them from first through third for this county, and that you believe you can either completely solve or make enough of an impact to be noticed as progressing toward a positive end result? 
Ranks and impacts. 
     1. Budget – a lot of the problems predicated for Levy County stems from IF the property tax exemption bill passes or not. However, this has promoted a lot of discussion on accountability and transparency within the county government. With my experience in maintaining a budget for school science labs and justifying expenditures by obtaining bids, I believe I can have a positive effect within the county to establish a system for every department to follow. This will lead to better transparency and a reduction in records request. By encouraging attrition and looking at various creative methods to reduce expenditures, making physically responsibly purchases, Levy County can have a balanced budget even if the property tax exemption bill is approved. 
     2. Hyper scaled data centers – during the necessary moratorium I will work with many experts, conduct research, talk to other counties and listen to the residents of Levy County concerning the many potential hazards of a data center, possible benefits such as providing jobs and increasing the tax base. As the county is working on the comp plan, I will provide input into the verbiage to guide the county on what type of data center could be located within the county and where that location might exist, or even if a data center could exist in Levy County and not harm the quality and quantity of the Floridan Aquifer and any surface waters.  
     3. Jobs and the necessity of keeping Levy County a rural county. I am a certified Eco- Heritage Tourism guide with a lot of knowledge in eco-tourism. The rural atmosphere, the agricultural and aquaculture farms, the dark skies, the bountiful fishing and hunting opportunities, and the wonderful forest, rivers and springs provide many ways to create new jobs within the county, and I have the expertise to make a positive impact now. To keep Levy County an inviting place for people to visit and live, it is important to keep roadways, the forest and our waterways trash free. As your county commissioner, I will research new technological methods to recycle many items, thus keeping many items out of the landfill, reducing landfill expenditures, and creating new income streams over time while protecting our waterways.  To keep Levy County a sustainable rural county it will be important to control growth by smartly constructing the new comprehensive plan, which I have taken an active role in since last year.  I am looking forward to being your next county commissioner.
Wesley Langston (REP)

Why do you want to be a County Commissioner?
     I am running for County Commissioner because I love Levy County and want to help preserve what makes it such a special place to live. As a fourth-generation resident, I have a deep appreciation for our history, our people, and our rural way of life. I believe local government exists to serve the people through transparency, honesty, and responsible leadership. My goal is to be a voice for the citizens of Levy County by protecting taxpayer dollars, defending private property rights, supporting public safety, and making decisions that benefit both current and future generations.
Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a County Commissioner?
     I am the owner and operator of Top Brand Tree Care & Fencing, and have been working in residential and commercial tree care for more than 25 years. Being self-employed allows me the flexibility to manage my own schedule and will allow me to fully dedicate the time necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of a County Commissioner.
     One initiative I plan to introduce is “Coffee with the Commissioner,” held one Saturday each month from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at restaurants throughout Levy County. This will provide residents with an informal opportunity to ask questions, discuss concerns, share ideas, and receive updates on county business.
     I believe accessibility is one of the most important responsibilities of public service. If elected, I will be committed to listening, communicating openly, and remaining accessible to every citizen of Levy County.
What do you see as the three most important issues facing Levy County, ranked in order?
     1. Homestead Tax Exemption
     With the expansion of Florida’s homestead tax exemption, Levy County must prepare for the potential impact on future revenues. My goal is to help ensure the county remains financially sustainable while recognizing that every budget decision affects real people and real families. We must be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars, carefully evaluating spending and prioritizing essential services before asking taxpayers to shoulder additional burdens.
     2. AI data centers. 
     We need to protect our local Levy County’s rural heritage is one of our greatest assets and should never be sacrificed for short-term financial gain. I am against all AI data centers because they threaten our water resources, environment, property rights, and quality of life.
     Any Growth should enhance our community—not change its identity. I will support responsible development that respects our citizens, protects our natural resources, and preserves the rural character that makes Levy County a place we are proud to call home.
     3. Jobs 
     Levy County Jobs for Levy County residents- so that their tax dollars are directly impacting their local economy. & directly benefitting their own families. We must continue to grow, and we must plan wisely for the future. 
     I will defend private property rights while supporting responsible growth that strengthens our communities, improves public safety and infrastructure, and creates quality jobs.
     Economic development should complement—not compromise—our rural way of life. We can encourage new opportunities while preserving our farmland, forests, rivers, springs, and the values that have defined Levy County for generations.
     Together, I believe we can protect Levy County’s future by leading with honesty, transparency, fiscal responsibility, and servant leadership. I am committed to preserving our heritage, strengthening our communities, and ensuring our children and grandchildren inherit a county that is financially strong, economically vibrant, and proud of its rural roots.
Matt Lemery (REP)

1. Why do you want to be a county commissioner?
     I'm a husband, a father, and the owner of a Chiefland metal roofing company. Twenty-five years working with my hands. I've never run for office. I'm running now because nobody else in District 2 is going to ask the questions that need asking.
     I pay county property tax. I make payroll. I write checks every quarter to the State of Florida. And like a lot of folks in Levy County, I've watched assessments climb while service delivery hasn't kept up — and the answer from the county has been a "work group" or a "holistic evaluation" instead of a number on a page.
     That's not how a business runs. It shouldn't be how a county runs either.
     I'm running because I believe the people footing the bill deserve to see where the money is going before they're asked for more. I'm running because CS/HJR 1F passed in June and is going on the November ballot — and when it does, Levy County is going to lose roughly $7 million in homestead revenue in the first year, and as much as $13 million by year three. That's nearly half of our property tax base. Right now, nobody in county leadership is talking publicly about what that means for our roads, our deputies, our first responders, or our building department. Somebody has to.
     I'm not promising slogans. I'm promising to show up, do the work, and deliver — the same way I've built my company. Earned. Not given.
     That's the kind of perspective the commission could use a little more of. That's why I'm running.
2. Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a county commissioner?
     Full-time. I own and operate a metal roofing company based in Chiefland that serves Levy and the surrounding counties. I'm in the field, on roofs, and running the business every week.
     If I'm elected, I will continue to run my company. Commissioner is a part-time elected office, and Levy County families don't pay enough in commissioner salary to ask anybody to live on it. Like every other commissioner who has actually held a job, I'll do both.
     What I want voters to know about the way I handle money: I've built my company without going into debt for things I couldn't pay for. I've been a good steward of what I've earned, and I've taught my crew and my family to do the same. That's the same posture I'll bring to county dollars — treat every line like it came out of my own pocket, because it came out of somebody's.
     Beyond the roofing company, I do not have outside political consulting, lobbying income, or boards I'd be drawing checks from. What you see is what you get — a working roofer with a clean track record and the kind of accountability his company depends on every single day.
3. What do you see as the three most important issues, ranking them from first through third for this county, and that you believe you can either completely solve or make enough of an impact to be noticed as progressing toward a positive end result?
     1. Transparency before raises — a real online dashboard for county spending and operations.
     From what I've been able to find, the Levy County Planning Commission hasn't published meeting minutes since November 2025. That's six months of public meetings, invisible to the people whose property they affect. The EMS numbers I've seen reported show 2,440 calls and only 1,657 transports in a single quarter — that's roughly 783 calls without a clear public explanation — and around $369K in EMS write-offs approved for the first half of FY2026. If a fuller picture exists somewhere in the county system, I haven't been able to find it as a citizen, and that's exactly the problem. The numbers may exist; the public access to them does not. I'll push for mandatory minutes within 30 days, full agenda packets posted 7 days ahead, and a single public dashboard for spending, permits, and response times. No silver bullets — just basic accountability that should already exist.
     2. The property tax revenue shortfall from CS/HJR 1F — start planning now, not in 2027.
     The constitutional amendment going on the November ballot is going to pass. It raises the homestead exemption to $150K in 2027, $250K in 2028, with a stated goal of full elimination. For Levy County, that's roughly $7M lost in year one, $10M in year two, and as much as $13M by year three. The amendment also restricts which services county property tax can fund — public safety, schools, infrastructure, natural resources. That puts parks, libraries, the building department, code enforcement, veterans services, and more in the discretionary bucket. We need a serious prioritization plan now — not after the cuts hit. I'll push for a published, public Levy-specific impact analysis and a 3-year plan voters can read.
     3. Smart growth — developers pay for utility extensions, not existing residents.
     Levy is on the front edge of Ocala–Gainesville spillover. New developments are coming. The 2026 Comp Plan rewrite is being finalized this year. Done right, growth broadens our tax base and helps offset the homestead revenue loss. Done wrong, long-time residents subsidize the infrastructure for new rooftops. My position is straightforward: new development pays its own freight, the Comp Plan gets a strong common-sense voice from the District 2 seat, and we annex or extend services strategically — not based on whoever was loudest at the last workshop.

County Commissioner, District 4
Billy Hinote (REP)

1. Why do you want to be a county commissioner?
     I want to be a Levy County Commissioner because I care deeply about the future of our county. Levy County is home, and I want to help protect the small town values and way of life that make it such a special place to live. I'll work hard to listen to our citizens, be a responsible overseer of your tax dollars, and always put the people of Levy County first.
2. Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a county commissioner?
     I currently own and operate Charles Hinote Electric, Inc., a business I've been proud to build and serve our community with for many years. Which is a full time job. Since transitioning the day-to-day operations to my son, my role has become much smaller. If I'm elected as your Levy County Commissioner, I'll continue helping him with occasional day-to-day tasks while dedicating my time and attention to serving the citizens of Levy County.
3. What do you see as the three most important issues, ranking them from first through third for this county, and that you believe you can either completely solve or make enough of an impact to be noticed as progressing toward a positive end result?
     To me, transparency is the biggest issue facing our county today. I believe the citizens of Levy County have every right to know where their hard earned tax dollars are going and why decisions are being made. If I'm elected, I'll do my part to make sure county government is more open, more accountable, and easier for folks to understand. The people deserve to be informed because, at the end of the day, it's their county and their money.
     Another issue that's very important to me is protecting Levy County from large AI data centers. I've been opposed to these projects from the very beginning because I believe we need to protect the rural character and way of life that make our county special. If I'm elected, I'll work as hard as I can to keep these developments out of Levy County. I also believe the people deserve to have a stronger voice in these kinds of decisions. That's why I want to bring county workshops to more communities throughout Levy County, making it easier for residents to attend, ask questions, and share their opinions. The best decisions are made when the people who are affected have a chance to be heard.
     Another issue that's important to me is the spending of the taxpayers' money. If I'm elected, I will thoroughly review the county budget to find areas where we may be able to cut unnecessary spending while continuing to provide the services our citizens depend on. With the proposed Homestead Bill and the changes it could bring, I believe it's more important than ever to spend wisely. By cutting waste and being responsible with our tax dollars, I hope we can help the county continue operating without reducing essential services or relying on reserve funds whenever possible. Every dollar the county spends should be spent carefully, because it belongs to the people of Levy County.

Publisher's Note: The email from Sandra Hodge with the Tim's Hodge's answers and picture was sent via a cell phone and went to the spam folder. They called on Thursday morning and resent the information which is published here now (July 23 at 9:30 a.m.)
Tim Hodge (REP)

1. Why do you want to be a county commissioner? 
     I currently hold the county commissioner seat for District 4 where I am up for re-election. I am honored to have been on the board this last term being elected in 2022 and feel honored to seek re-election to continue working in my county. We are currently working on projects within the county and I would like to continue being on the board to help complete these items. 
     Growing up in a rural area this was always a dream of mine and I wanted to achieve this dream in my life so I ran for county commissioner in 2022 and was elected by the citizens of Levy County. I would like to remain on the board to continue to help our county to achieve as much as we can as a board. We are blessed with good board members that are able to agree and disagree on different issues, but have Levy County best interest at heart. 
2. Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a county commissioner?
     I currently work as your Levy County Commissioner full time. Being a commissioner requires a number of hours of your time and willingness to work with your citizens. I am currently the chairman on the board, which requires a number of meetings, zoom calls and team meetings. I am always available by phone or to meet with citizens when they have concerns or problems they are trying to work out. 
     I am blessed to work for a good company Shamrock Timber and Sod in Dixie County where I am able to be flexible with my hours when I am needed on county business. When I have no meetings or county business to attend to I work with them whenever I can during the week. I have been with this company for over 35 years. 
3. What do you see as the three most important issues, ranking them from first through third for this county, and that you can either completely solve or make enough of an impact to be noticed as progressing toward a positive end result. 
     First, Responsible growth that allows for the right kind of business to come into being while preserving our rural way of life. As a commissioner, I would consider all the factors. 
     Second, Budgeting where as a commissioner I would remain to be fiscally responsible with taxpayers money. Carefully analyzing all purchases in addition to department budgets as well as staffing.
     Third, Management of county assets, such as boat ramps to parks to roads, Levy County is lucky to have a long list of assets that are managed by the Board of County Commissioners.  It is a top priority of this Board to oversee the management and make sure improvements are scheduled.  This year Levy County has been fortunate enough to be able to repave miles of roads and looking forward to more in the future. This quarter TDC purchased playground equipment for Blue Springs Park as an enhancement for residents and guests that pay to enjoy the park.

David Sharpe (REP)

1. Why do you want to be a county commissioner?
     I decided to run because I believe Levy County needs greater transparency, stronger fiscal discipline, and leadership that answers first to the citizens rather than the bureaucracy.
2. Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a county commissioner?
     I am a retired RN and Commissioner would be full time.
3. What do you see as the three most important issues, ranking them from first through third for this county, and that you believe you can either completely solve or make enough of an impact to be noticed as progressing toward a positive end result?
     1. Government Accountability and Transparency
     The most important issue facing Levy County is restoring public trust through transparent and accountable government. Citizens deserve to know how decisions are made, how their tax dollars are spent, and why priorities are set. Too often, residents feel disconnected from the decision-making process.
     As a former state healthcare inspector, accountability has been a central part of my career. I understand how to review operations, identify inefficiencies, and ensure organizations follow established rules and procedures. As County Commissioner, I will advocate for open communication, clear reporting, and greater public access to information so citizens can have confidence that their government is working for them.
     2. Responsible Spending and Fiscal Planning
     Levy County families must live within their budgets, and county government should do the same. One of the challenges facing the county is ensuring that long-term capital needs, equipment replacement, and infrastructure investments are planned properly rather than addressed through last-minute funding requests.
     My background includes managing large healthcare budgets and overseeing complex operations where planning was essential. I believe better forecasting, long-term budgeting, and regular review of county spending can reduce waste and ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively. Progress in this area will allow the county to provide needed services while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
     3. Expanding Access to Emergency Healthcare
     One of the most significant challenges facing Levy County is access to emergency healthcare. In a medical crisis, minutes matter. Too many residents must travel long distances to reach emergency care, creating delays that can affect outcomes for patients and families.
     As a former paramedic, Army Nurse Corps veteran, nurse leader, and healthcare regulator, I understand both the clinical and operational challenges involved in delivering emergency medical services. I believe Levy County should actively pursue the development of a standalone emergency department to provide local access to life-saving emergency care.
While a County Commissioner cannot build a healthcare facility alone, I can work with healthcare providers, community leaders, state agencies, and regional partners to advocate for and support bringing expanded emergency services to our county. A standalone emergency department would improve access to care, strengthen public safety, and provide peace of mind for residents and visitors alike.
     These three priorities—accountability, fiscal responsibility, and improved access to emergency healthcare—represent practical goals that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of Levy County citizens. By focusing on these issues, we can build a stronger, safer, and more responsive county government.
GILCHRIST COUNTY
County Commissioner District 2

Daniel Fussell (REP)
Non-Responsive

Bill Martin (REP)

1. Why do you want to be a County Commissioner?
     Serving as your District 2 County Commissioner has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life. After spending 35 years teaching agricultural science, I wasn't ready to stop serving the community that has given so much to me and my family. Becoming a County Commissioner allowed me to continue doing what I've always loved—listening to people, solving problems, and working to make Gilchrist County an even better place to live.
     Over the past eight years, I've worked hard to be approachable, accessible, and willing to listen. I believe good decisions start by hearing from the people you represent. Together, we've accomplished a lot. We've improved roads, built a new Agriculture Extension Office and county jail, expanded emergency medical services, and done it all while lowering the millage rate, maintaining a balanced budget, and keeping Gilchrist County in a strong financial position.
     Gilchrist County has always been home. My wife and I have been blessed to raise our family here, and now our children and grandchildren call this county home too. I care deeply about protecting what makes this community special while preparing responsibly for the future.
     As our county continues to grow, we need experienced leadership that will make thoughtful decisions, protect our natural resources, and be good stewards of taxpayer dollars. I believe my experience, my love for this community, and my commitment to serving others have prepared me to continue that work.
     I am asking for your support because I believe there is still important work ahead, and I remain committed to serving every citizen of Gilchrist County with honesty, integrity, and common sense.
2. Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a County Commissioner?
     After spending 35 years as an agricultural science teacher, including 28 years at Bell High School, I retired from education. Teaching wasn't just my profession—it was my passion. I had the privilege of helping shape the lives of countless young people, many of whom I still see around our community today.
     Today, in addition to serving as your County Commissioner, my family and I own and operate an oyster farming business. Working on the water has given me an even greater appreciation for Florida's natural resources and the importance of protecting the springs, rivers, and aquifer that are so important to our county. As a small business owner, I also understand the challenges that many local families and business owners face every day.
     Although serving as a County Commissioner is considered a part-time position, I treat it as a full-time responsibility. The work doesn't stop when a commission meeting ends. It includes preparing for meetings, reviewing budgets, meeting with residents, visiting county projects, attending community events, and working with county staff and state agencies to keep Gilchrist County moving in the right direction.
     Even in retirement, I have stayed connected to our local schools by continuing to support our students. Whether it's driving a school bus for athletic events, field trips, or other activities when needed, I enjoy doing my part to help ensure our students have opportunities to learn, compete, and represent our community. Supporting our schools has always been important to me, and I'm grateful for the chance to continue serving our students in this way.
     Being involved in agriculture, small business, and our local community helps keep me grounded and connected to the people I serve. Whether I'm attending a local event, working on the farm, or simply running errands around town, I enjoy talking with residents and hearing what's on their minds. Those conversations help me make better decisions and remind me who I'm working for every day.
3. What do you see as the three most important issues, ranking them from first through third, for this county, and that you believe you can either completely solve or make enough of an impact to be noticed as progressing toward a positive end result?
     1. Managing Growth Responsibly
     Gilchrist County is growing, and while growth can bring new opportunities, it also brings new challenges. My top priority is making sure we manage that growth in a way that protects the rural character and quality of life that make our county so special. We need to plan wisely so our roads, emergency services, and infrastructure can support future growth without losing the small-town values that brought so many of us here in the first place.
     2. Protecting Our Water Resources
     Our springs, rivers, and aquifer are among Gilchrist County's greatest treasures. They aren't just beautiful natural resources—they're essential to our families, our farmers, our businesses, and future generations. I believe we must continue supporting responsible land-use decisions, encourage conservation, and work with local, regional, and state partners to safeguard these resources. While no single commissioner can solve every water issue alone, we can make meaningful progress through thoughtful planning and responsible leadership.
     3. Fiscal Responsibility
     Every dollar the county spends belongs to the taxpayers, and I believe we have a responsibility to spend it wisely. During my time on the Commission, we've demonstrated that responsible budgeting and strategic investments can go hand in hand. We've completed major infrastructure projects while lowering the millage rate, maintaining balanced budgets, and preserving strong financial reserves. Moving forward, I will continue looking for ways to make government efficient, transparent, and accountable while ensuring we're making smart investments that benefit both today's residents and future generations without placing unnecessary burdens on our taxpayers.

Cody NesSmith (REP)
Non-responsive

DIXIE COUNTY
County Commissioner - District 2
John Mash Jr. (REP)

1. Why do you want to be a county commissioner?
     I care deeply about the place I have called home for the last 29 years. Dixie County isn’t just where I live, it’s where I was raised, where my family lives, where I’ve built my career serving others, and where I hope future generations will have the opportunity to build their lives as well.
     For the last eight years, I have had the privilege of serving my community as a first responder. In that profession, I have learned that public service is not about titles, recognition, or politics. It is about putting other people before yourself, making difficult decisions under pressure, and always asking one question: “What is in the best interest of the people I serve?” That mindset is what I want to bring to county government.
     I believe leadership should be guided by reason, rationale, and careful consideration, not by emotion, assumptions, or impulse. Every decision made by a county commissioner affects real people, real families, and real businesses. Those decisions deserve thoughtful discussion, honest debate, and a willingness to listen before acting. I want to help introduce a mindset where facts matter, where differing opinions are welcomed, and where decisions are made only after considering all sides of an issue.
     I am not running because I think I have all the answers. I am running because I believe the people of this county deserve someone who is willing to listen to them. Too often, citizens feel like their voices are unheard. I want to be a commissioner who is accessible, accountable, and willing to have conversations, even when they are difficult. Good government begins with listening.
     Above all, I am simply a concerned citizen who refuses to stand on the sidelines. It is easy to identify problems or criticize decisions, but real change requires people willing to step forward and accept responsibility. I believe that if we have the ability to make a positive difference in our community, then we also have an obligation to try. Public service is not something I view as a career opportunity, it is a responsibility.
     My goal is to earn the trust of the people of Dixie County by leading with integrity, common sense, transparency, and respect. If elected, I will approach every decision with an open mind, a servant’s heart, and a commitment to doing what is best for our community, not what is easiest or most popular. I want to help build a stronger Dixie County that future generations will be proud to call home, just as I have been proud to call it home for the past 29 years.
2. Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a county commissioner?
     I currently work full-time as a Firefighter/Paramedic with Madison County Fire Rescue. In addition, I serve part-time as a Firefighter/Paramedic with Gilchrist County and as an Adjunct Fire Instructor at Tallahassee State College. Public service has always been my calling, and every one of these roles reflects my commitment to serving others.
     While I do have multiple positions, my priority will always be the citizens of Dixie County. My part-time positions are entirely flexible, allowing me to choose when I work, so they will never interfere with my duties, responsibilities, or availability as your County Commissioner.
     If elected, I will treat the office of County Commissioner as the responsibility it deserves, not as a title, but as a commitment to the people who placed their trust in me. I will be available, prepared, and fully engaged in the decisions that shape our county. My work schedule will be arranged around my obligations to Dixie County, not the other way around.
     I’ve built my career around serving my community, and becoming your County Commissioner would simply be another opportunity to continue that service. The people of Dixie County will always come first.
3. What do you see as the three most important issues, ranking them from first through third for this county, and that you believe you can either completely solve or make enough of an impact to be noticed as progressing toward a positive end result?
     If elected, I believe there are three issues where I can make the greatest impact for the citizens of Dixie County.
     First is government transparency. Government should never operate behind closed doors. The people deserve to know what is happening in their county, not just during the two commission meetings each month. Citizens should be kept informed about major projects, budget discussions, proposed developments, and important decisions before they’re finalized -- not after. I want to promote regular public updates, better communication through multiple platforms, and an open-door approach that makes county government more transparent, accessible, and accountable to the people it serves.
     Second is government availability. Public office is exactly that—public service. If a citizen takes the time to call, email, or stop by with a concern, they deserve a response. Whether I agree with someone or not, every resident deserves to be heard and treated with respect. My commitment is simple: if you elect me to represent you, I will be available to you. Listening to the people is not optional; it’s one of the most important responsibilities of being a county commissioner.
     Third is improving our local infrastructure and strengthening our essential services, especially Emergency Medical Services. Dixie County is growing, and we’re already investing in new facilities. Now we have to make sure we can properly staff them. That means finding responsible, long-term ways to increase funding so we can offer competitive wages, recruit and retain qualified first responders, and provide the level of emergency service our citizens deserve.
     With discussions taking place about the possible elimination of property taxes on homesteaded properties, I believe we should begin exploring fair and sustainable alternatives to fund essential county services. One option worth seriously evaluating is increasing our existing one-percent local option sales tax to two and one-half percent. The current one-percent tax generates approximately $1.9 million annually. An additional one and one-half percent could potentially increase that revenue to roughly four to five million dollars each year. That additional funding could help support higher pay for first responders, create additional staffing positions for our new stations, improve county infrastructure, and reduce the financial burden that currently falls primarily on property owners and local businesses. A sales tax also spreads the responsibility among everyone who benefits from our county -- including visitors and travelers -- not just the people who own property here.
     At the end of the day, my priorities are straightforward: an open and transparent government, elected officials who are available and accountable to the people, and a county that invests wisely in the infrastructure and essential services that protect our families and prepare Dixie County for the future.

Keith Tuten (REP)
Non-Responsive

Daniel Wood III (REP)

1. Why do you want to be a county commissioner?
     I want to be County Commissioner because I care deeply about our community and the people that call it home.  Our county deserves leadership that works hard and puts our community first.
     My service in the Army taught me the importance of leadership, accountability, and putting others before yourself.  My career in Florida’s crop insurance industry has given me firsthand experience working with our farmers and understanding how important agriculture is to our economy. During my term we have faced many challenges in our county. I feel I have learned and grown as a commissioner.  I better understand the dedication and commitment it takes to lead our county. I would like to continue to bring that same commitment as your commissioner.  I’ve also spent years investing in our community and supporting our youth because I believe strong communities are built by people who are willing to serve.  My focus is on responsible spending of taxpayer dollars, supporting public safety, protecting our heritage, encouraging thoughtful economic growth, and making decisions that keep our county a great place to live, work and raise a family. I’m running to serve. I want to listen to the people, work hard every day and make decisions that put our community first. 
2. Do you have a full-time or part-time job? What other jobs will you be performing other than your work as a county commissioner?
     Yes, I have a full-time job as a crop insurance adjuster. I do much of my work from home.  I work from my laptop and conduct many meetings by phone.  I do travel the state but usually have a flexible schedule.  To explain my current job, when there are weather-related damages to crops, I am called out to access the damage and process the claim.  I am also called out to perform inspections as needed.  I carry a mobile office with me.  I cover many miles a day to be as efficient as possible.  During my term I have been able to perform both my jobs as county commissioner and insurance adjuster. I am hardworking and make myself accessible to all.
3. What do you see as the three most important issues, ranking them from first through third for this county, and that you believe you can either completely solve or make enough of an impact to be noticed as progressing toward a positive end result?
     I believe three of the most important issues facing our county are economic growth, infrastructure, and protecting our rural way of life.
     We need to continue working to attract new businesses while supporting the industries that have built our community, including agriculture, forestry, small businesses, and tourism. Growing our tax base will help provide better services without placing an unnecessary burden on local families. We need to create opportunities for our young people so they can build a future here at home.
     We must invest in our roads, public safety, and essential infrastructure to keep pace with growth and ensure our communities remain safe. Maintaining our roads, improving drainage, and preparing for severe weather are critical priorities.  Dixie County has had challenges with flooding and stormwater management, making continued investments in drainage systems important for protecting homes, businesses and public safety. 
     We need to protect the rural lifestyle that makes our county special. We need responsible growth that supports progress while protecting agriculture, forestry, and our natural resources.  Growth that respects our communities and values of the people who call this county home. 
As county commissioner, my goal would be to find common sense solutions that strengthen our economy while preserving our quality of life.

Judge Luis Bustamante
speaks to the people

I- Levy County Court Judge Luis Bustamante speaks to the people on July 16 in the Tommy Usher Community Center.

Story and Photo By Jeff M. Hardison © July 21, 2026 at 6:45 a.m.
All Copyrights Protected By Federal Civil Law
Do Not Copy and Paste to Social Media or Elsewhere
     CHIEFLAND – The Honorable Levy County Court Judge Luis Bustamante was present for the event Thursday night (July 16) in the Tommy Usher Community Center, where various candidates spoke to voters.
     Darla Whistler is the other candidate for the position, and she was absent that Thursday night. Whistler has 20 years of experience serving as Assistant State Attorney and currently works in the Alachua County Special Victims Unit of the Eight Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office, where she investigates and prosecutes crimes against women and children, including sexual offenses, domestic violence and homicide.
     For this event, rather than the two candidates answering questions, the judge was just given some minutes to address the audience as a result of Whistler’s absence.
     He said that by visiting every part of Levy County, he has met the most wonderful people.
     Bustamante became the Levy County Court Judge on Sept. 27, 2023, when Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed him to fill the vacancy created by the early retirement of Levy County Court Judge J.T “Tim” Browning, when Browning’s retirement took effect on May 1, 2023. In Florida, county judges serve six‑year terms. As part of election laws in Florida, Bustamante could choose to be elected in the 2026 election cycle after his appointment, which is what he chose.
     On July 16, Bustamante shared with people that he has loved every single minute that he has lived in Levy County, where he moved as required by law after he was elected.
     According to Florida Statute 34.021, in addition to the residency mandate where the judge must become a resident in the county where he or she serves after that person is elected or appointed, a county judge must also have been a member in good standing of The Florida Bar for the preceding five years. An exception exists for counties with a population of 40,000 or less, where the five-year Bar membership requirement is waived, but the county residency requirement still applies. The population of Levy County is estimated to be approximately 49,396 as of 2026, reflecting population growth from the 2020 U.S. Census count of 42,915, which means the membership requirement applies to this county, as does the residency requirement.
     Both Bustamante and Whistler easily met the membership requirement. Bustamante has been a member of The Florida Bar since Oct. 1, 1993, meaning he has been a licensed attorney in the state for more than 32 years, according to records. Whistler has been a member of The Florida Bar since July 25, 2002. As of July 2026, she has been a member in good standing for approximately 24 years, according to records.
     At the event on July 16, Bustamante said that as he was listening to Matt Lemery apologize for being a bit late due to Lemery’s cows getting out, and that Levy County Commission candidate needing to bring them back to the proper place from where they had wandered onto a neighbor’s land, it gave Bustamante a chance to remember visiting livestock coming from his neighbor’s property.
     Two nights ago, one of the judge’s neighbor’s cows decided they would enjoy a feast with the summer greens that the judge’s wife Mina is growing, Bustamante said.
     Not only did the stray bovine enjoy the summer greens, Bustamante said, but “they left prizes behind.”
     The judge spoke with their neighbor who told him it was embarrassing to have the cows wander into his yard. Bustamante said that this neighbor’s livestock sauntering onto his property was OK, because he loves everything about Levy County.
     And he is the only one of the two candidates for this post who is currently a Levy County resident, Bustamante said.
     “I am proud to call this place my home,” he said.
     Bustamante mentioned, too, that he has judicial experience as a judge, while the other candidate for this position has not served as a judge yet.
     In his first three years, Bustamante said, he has handled more than 15,000 cases. On Thursday morning (July 16), he handled more than 100 cases, he added.
     He said people who have been in court actions where he presided can be asked if he was fair and patient, and he believes they will confirm that to be true. Bustamante said he is a judge who knows people. If the voters choose to honor him by keeping him as the Levy County Court judge, then he promises he will be the same as he has been in his first years of service.
     “And I will do more,” Bustamante said, “because it is not just me being a judge. What I do in this community is also being part of this community. I go to schools. I teach kids about trial advocacy.”
     Judge Bustamante is a member of the Chiefland Rotary Club, and he visits the Rotary Club in Williston as a visiting Rotarian. He visits Cedar Key and other parts of Levy County, as well, he said, because it is not by sitting behind a bench that a county judge gets to know other members of the community -- beyond those who appear in court for civil, criminal, traffic, probate or other matters related to jurisprudence.
     Bustamante mentioned, too, that as of July 16 he is the only one of the two candidates for Levy County Court judge who can vote for himself, because he is a registered Levy County voter.
     “And I promise you,” he said, “I am going to vote for me.”
     The crowd laughed and applauded when he made that announcement.
     As part of the celebrations in Levy County for the 250th Anniversary of the United States for Independence Day, there were three different parades within 24 hours in the county. He participated in all three. Given that he sweats, Bustamante said, these types of days become “three shirt days.”
     Bustamante said as he participates in parades and other events, he is glad to see so many of the children he has met during his first years on the bench in Levy County.
     He is especially moved, “When they smile and say, ‘Hey judge. How are you doing?’”
     Bustamante said he wants kids from this community – when it is the first time that they see any judge, for that occasion to be something other than when they appear in criminal court.
     Instead, he wants them to see the judge is a person who cares about the community.
     Bustamante encourages them, and he wants all children to see that if they want, and they work at it enough, they can be an attorney or they can even be a judge.
     “You can come back to this community and give back to it,” is a message he wants those youngsters to see and hear.
     “Before becoming a judge for the last three years,” he said, “I was a prosecutor for 20 years.”
     And then City Commissioner LaWanda Jones rang the bell and Bustamante’s minutes of speaking were completed there. City Manager Laura Cain and City Commissioner Jones led all 16 people speaking that night to understand the limits of time, and graciously gave a 15-second warning bell alert each time before the final bell tolled for the speakers that night.