Misty Servia Runs For Manatee County Commission District 4 Seat

MANATEE COUNTY, FL – In the Aug. 23 primary election, Republican voters will choose between two candidates – Michael C. Rahn and Misty Servia - for the Republican nomination in the Manatee County Commission District 4 race.

The top vote getter will go up against the Democratic nominee in the Nov. 8 general election.

Patch has asked all candidates to complete a questionnaire about their campaign and their priorities.

Servia, the incumbent candidate, responded to our survey and her responses are posted below.

Campaign website

https://commissionerservia.com

City or town of residence

Manatee County

Office sought

County Commissioner, District 4

Education

Bachelor of Science in geography

Occupation

County commissioner (one term) and urban planner (30 years)

Family

Married to Joaquin Servia for 27 years, daughter Alexandra (mental health counselor in Bradenton), son Joaquin (U.S. Navy), son Marc (U.S. Army)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

None

Age

58

Previous public office, appointive or elective

I was elected at the District 4 County Commissioner in 2018.

Why are you seeking this office?

I’m a public servant who has spent my career working and volunteering to improve Manatee County for the current residents and the next generation.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

The major differences between me and my opponent are: 1) I have a history of working to support our residents and local businesses and my opponent says that he works to help builders. 2) I have a solid background as a fiscal conservative, both personally (and) professionally; and he has a $1.65 million bankruptcy, liens, foreclosure and even fought to pay the mother of his children support after divorce. 3) As an urban planner with 30 years (of) experience, I can help us manage traffic (and) growth and have voted “no” on the projects that will hurt our community. My opponent never met a development he didn’t like. 4) I tell the truth - always - and my opponent has run a campaign built on lies, trying to disenfranchise the voters; and 5) When elected I will continue working hard on local issues unlike my opponent who is aligned with the “gang of four” on the (Board of County Commissioners) who consistently bring Washington D.C. rhetoric to our community to cause divisiveness.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

I am the incumbent and believe I have done an excellent job for our community. One of the things I am most proud of is creating the “Citizens Coalition on Growth” as a way to bring more voices to the table on traffic & growth issues. This group is made up of representatives throughout District 4 and they have opined on public policy matters, and made a difference in their neighborhoods and in our community.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

We need to cut unnecessary spending and replenish our reserves. As a fiscal conservative, I am well aware that the next crisis has not yet revealed itself. When it does, we need to be well-positioned to deal with it and continue to provide services to the community without skipping a beat.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have a proven track record in my first term on the county commission and a reputation for problem solving. I’m proud of the many things we have accomplished, including the soon to be completed, Kinnan Park, the stormwater improvements in Whitfield Estates and Trailer Estates, the roadway expansion of 63rd Avenue E., the sidewalk/curbing in Ballentine Manor and the traffic calming in many neighborhoods, including Fairlane Acres. I am proud that I pushed to keep our businesses open during the pandemic by encouraging residents to practice safety measures supported by Gov. (Ron) DeSantis. I am proud that I pushed our board to reopen the boat ramps during COVID-19 before our governor reopened our beaches. I am most proud to be known as a commissioner who is always accessible and transparent and follows through on issues; and one who summarizes the BOCC meetings on Facebook Live to keep the community informed on the actions of their local government.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

I live by the ancient Toltec wisdom of: 1) Be impeccable with your word. 2) Don’t take anything personally. 3) Don’t make assumptions. and 4) Always do your best.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I have a very strong work ethic. I give you my word that I will continue to work hard and serve Manatee County with a vision of pursuing excellence for our community today, and for the next generation.