Walton County Commissioner, District 4

Republican primary
WHO CAN VOTE: Registered Republicans in Walton County.
WHAT?S NEXT: Winner faces David Kramer (no party affiliation) in Nov. 2 election.

Sara Comander
Age: 64.
Residence: DeFuniak Springs.
Occupation: Walton County commissioner for District 4.
Key experience: Serving first term as commissioner. Small business owner for 25 years.


Q. Why are you running for Walton County commissioner?
A. Being a commissioner is one of the highest levels of service one can perform for their community. My business background ? first as a funeral home owner, then as a radio station owner ? and my community volunteer efforts have been about serving people. It?s a big part of who I am.


Q. What fiscal concerns do you have about the county government, and how would you address them?
A. With declining revenues, providing services to our citizens is challenging. I believe that by taking a hard look at our budget, we can still provide essential services and keep all of our people employed. We must find a way to reduce spending while continuing to provide essential services.


Q. What do you see as another major issue facing the county, and what would you do about it?
A. One concern continues to be four-laning U.S. 331. Over the last two years, we have acquired $12 million worth of donated right of way. Those saved dollars will be used for construction. I will continue to work with state and federal officials to secure funding.

Rosier ?Ro? Cuchens
Age: 52.
Residence: Freeport.
Occupation: Small business owner.
Key experience: Eight years as a Walton County commissioner. Business owner for 30 years.


Q. Why are you running for Walton County commissioner?
A. I believe in smaller government, accountability, private property rights, standing up against special interest groups, transparency and listening to the taxpayers. If elected I intend to work toward job creation through bringing in clean industry. I will continue my efforts to see Highway 331 widened to the Alabama state line.


Q. What fiscal concerns do you have about the county government, and how would you address them?
A. With declining revenues, we need to focus on economic development and be more business-oriented in order to bring in clean industry and create jobs. With the opening of the airport in Bay County, we have an opportunity for new economic engines as well as increasing our tourism and revenues.


Q. What do you see as another major issue facing the county, and what would you do about it?
A. The oil spill affects every one of us. I have dealt with major floods and hurricanes and have the experience working with local, state and federal agencies to protect this county. I will work to see that we are reimbursed for all expenses incurred to secure and protect our county.