Republican Ron Salem won re-election to At-Large Group 2 in the March election, defeating a Democratic challenger.
News4Jax sent a questionnaire to each candidate asking about their background and their views on several issues. Scroll down to read the responses of those seeking your vote -- in their own words.
Note: Responses are sorted alphabetically and are presented exactly as submitted, with no editing by News4Jax staff.
| CANDIDATES |
Ron Salem
Party affiliation: Republican
Occupation: Healthcare executive
Age: 66
Your family: Married with 3 children and 5 grandchildren
Education: Doctor of Pharmacy
Political experience: Incumbent running for reelection. 3.5 years in office
Over the last few months, we surveyed News4JAX Insiders to find out what they saw as the top issues facing our city, ahead of the city elections. These issues below are the top three – how would you address each one if elected?
Voters’ No. 1 issue: Crime
Fund JSO at appropriate levels and resist any defund the police efforts. Support children’s programs in the Kids Hope Alliance. Support intervention programs that have a proven record of success
Voters’ No. 2 issue: Affordable Housing
Incentivize developers to build this kind of housing. Work with developers to include some affordable housing in market rate construction. Identify property that the city owns that can be provided free or at a reduced rate to developers
Voters’ No. 3 issue: Infrastructure
I have supported a massive effort to remove septic tanks in our Comunity. We have seen significant increases in road paving/sidewalks in recent city budgets. This also includes massive increases in road paving
Beyond those three issues, what do you see as the top issue you’ll likely face while holding this office?
Increasing the amenities in our parks as we have done the last two years. I will be implementing our opiate strategy as we begin to receive dollars thru the global settlement.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
I have always been accessible to my constituents. I read all my emails and respond accordingly. I also publish a quarterly newsletter to keep citizens informed
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
My work on the JEA sake is one of my proudest accomplishments. I also hope to contumely work with the NEF early start coalition. My work to maintain our opiate program and expand it over the next few years. Most importantly just being a public servant
Campaign website: ronsalem.com