For Hillsborough County Commission District 6, Republicans Margaret Iuculano and Don Kruse hope to earn their party’s nomination to face Democrat incumbent Kevin Beckner in November.
MARGARET IUCULANO
Age: 45
Family: Married; two children
Hometown: San Diego, Calif.
Experience: Founder, Angels for Foster Kids, a local non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of children in Foster Care; CEO for a software/training company and has held leadership positions at both small and Fortune 500 companies; CEO Council of Tampa Bay and C12 Group.
Favorite author: Multiple Christian authors, C.S. Lewis being one
If you could meet anyone dead or live, who would it be? Abraham Lincoln: a president who fought to give the country heart. One of the most influential people that helped abolished slavery.
Website: www.voteformargaret.com
What would be your top priorities if elected?
The creation of jobs by aggressively pursuing industries, establishing an expansive free-trade zone at the port authority and streamlining regulations to allow the private sector expeditious completion of projects that will increase our tax base.
What are some of the current challenges in Hillsborough County, and what are your solutions to those problems?
Some of the main issues in our county is lack of a collaborative economic development plan, difficult regulations and excessive fees imposed on the private sector. These issues must be addressed to bring more jobs into the county.
What are some of the current challenges facing Greater Plant City, and if elected, how would you address those concerns?
Plant City shares similar challenges facing the rest of the county — lack of jobs, collaboration and difficult regulatory processes. My focus would be on collaboration between Plant City, Temple Terrace and Tampa so best practices could be realized and potential consolidation of resources and services could be addressed.
What makes you a better candidate than your opponent?
The county voters should vote for me because I am committed to promoting jobs and our local economy. I strongly support managed growth and the protection of the environment. I believe strongly in smaller and more efficient government and in personal responsibility. As a county commissioner managing a $3 billion budget, I will exert my expertise having operated a business and having business acumen toward accomplishing these goals. I am pro-family, and I believe strong families are the foundation of a thriving community. Finally I believe in setting a strong moral compass for our citizens and our children.
Other thoughts/comments?
I am running for commissioner because I believe the government closest to the people is local government. The mood of our country begins with our attitude about jobs, economic development, public safety and all decisions that create a sense of community. My experience as a businesswoman, my faith in the exciting future of Hillsborough County and my strong desire to make a positive difference in local government are the most compelling reasons for me to want to give back and serve the community as county commissioner.
DON KRUSE
Age: 52
Family: Married; three grown children; two grandchildren
Hometown: Born and raised in Hillsborough County
Experience: President/CEO, Beauty and Health Institute; past president of Wheels of Success, a non-profit that provides cars to needy individuals and families; chair, American Cancer Society 2012 Relay for Life in Town and Country; board of directors, Veterans Day Parade Group
Favorite author: Walter Isaacson
If you could meet anyone dead or live, who would it be? My grandfather
Website: www.piwaplan.org
What would be your top priorities if elected?
Among my priorities is aiding local economy recovery by incentives to drive new jobs in construction.
What are some of the current challenges in Hillsborough County, and what are your solutions to those problems?
Jobs, jobs, jobs. I am proposing a 24-month plan to spur construction job growth by incentivizing property improvement for homeowners, businesses and investors. The Property Improvements Without Assessments plan would allow improvements of up to 50% of the current assessed property value, without an additional tax assessment for as long as the property remains in the owner’s name. Future owners would be responsible for the full assessed property value. It’s a mechanism for putting people back to work now while increasing property values and providing future tax revenue for Hillsborough County.
What are some of the current challenges facing Greater Plant City, and if elected, how would you address those concerns?
Jobs. Lobby Tallahassee to help bring nanotechnology companies to the area.
What makes you a better candidate than your opponent?
I am a third-generation resident of Hillsborough County and want to ensure that my grandchildren will enjoy the kind of life I’ve been privileged to (lead).
Other thoughts/comments?
My commitment to Hillsborough County comes out of my desire to share ideas and dreams for a better tomorrow for us all.