Jeff Allebach, 46
Orange City
Vice President Administration for Covalent Scientific Industries
Challenger
Q. What do you see as the biggest issue for the office you are seeking?
A. The biggest issue for the Volusia County Council is job creation and economic development. We need to streamline regulation and make it simpler, faster and less expensive to relocate or expand a business in Volusia. We should be seeking creative solutions to redevelop the abandoned areas with existing buildings, such initiatives would include special zoning overlays and special districts.
Q. What are your qualifications for the office you are seeking?
A. I grew up in Volusia and have actively worked to improve the quality of life here. I have served as the Manatee Festival president for the last 15 years and served on the Orange City City Council from 2002 to 2011. My recent relevant experience gives me the ability to understand what the issues are and how to work to improve them for the future.
Q. If you win, what's the first issue you will tackle?
A. The first issue I would address is job creation. We need to identify policies to simplify and shorten the time it takes to get through the permitting process. That will allow businesses to open faster and it will decrease their costs, encouraging job growth. I would also initiate steps to make all aspects of county government more transparent in order to provide citizens easy access to information as well as create a sense of confidence that we are spending their money wisely.
Q. If you lose, will you continue in politics?
A. I am committed to serving the community. My service as a city council member and my desire to work on the county council is an extension of that commitment. In that regard I will continue working with others to make Volusia better.