Commissioner - City of Kissimmee Seat 1

Gail Eck

Gail Eck
22 N Beaumont Ave, Kissimmee, FL 34741
407-810-7789
greck@kua.net
www.gaileck.com
Democratic
Age: 55
Occupation: Retired from City of Kissimmee with 25+ years of service.
Total Monetary Contributions To Date: $2,920.00
Total Monetary Expenditures To Date: $2,234.91
Download 1st Quarter Financials
Download Financials as of 7.18.08

Previous/Current Elected Office:
None

Previous Campaigns for Elected Office:
None

How Long have you lived in Osceola County?
Between Poinciana and the City of Kissimmee for the past 25 years

What is your history of community service?
Historic Preservation Board - City of Kissimmee, Kissimmee Main Street, Osceola Players, Osceola Center for the Arts, American Cancer Society, United Way, Reading Mentor - HOSTS, Children's Home Society, City of Kissimmee General Employees Organization, Special Olympics.

Why are in you seeking this office?
I love the City and feel I can contribute to the exciting projects the City is embarking on: lakefront development, downtown and Vine Street corridor. We need to build up the resources we have before venturing into new projects. I am committed to my community.

What makes you the best-qualified candidate?
I recently retired from the city with over 25 years service. I have a strong understanding of the budget process and commission agenda. Additionally, I am familiar with the various departments, their personnel and operations. As a citizen, I have always been involved in the community and have a perspective from both sides.

Current or former elected official you most admire and why?
President Jimmy Carter, he is a great humanitarian who continues to give to society.

If additional revenue becomes available where would you spend it?
Based on input from citizens, business and city staff, needs would be addressed that would best serve the community.

If revenue falls short, what are the areas you would target for cuts?
I would start by cutting programs in order to keep service in place.

Under what circumstances would you raise taxes?
Taxes would only be raised if the city were in serious jeopardy of having to cut public safety services.

Rate the job performance of the City Manager?
Mr. Durbin has effectively followed and implemented directives set forth by the commission. He is always available to the citizens and employees and will look into their concerns and never fails to follow up with a response.

What is the top issue facing the City of Kissimmee?
Loss of tax revenue, Vine Street corridor and business development.

What does the City of Kissimmee government do well?
Has kept the City fiscally sound. Hires employees committed to quality service.

What does the City of Kissimmee government do poorly?
Communication - Need to focus on a more effective avenue to educate and communicate to citizens and businesses on the workings of the City.

How would you help businesses in the City of Kissimmee?
The City needs an economic development plan to help businesses and bring business to the City which in return will bring jobs and revenue to the City.