Letter: Mays convinced Morris best choice

Dear Editor:

The opportunity to serve on the Saint Johns County Board of County Commissioners representing District 4 has been a high point in my life.

It has been a privilege and an honor to assist in guiding our County through unprecedented financial challenges. My fellow Commissioners and our County Administration constitute one of the most professional, dedicated, and competent teams I have ever been privileged to be a part of. Were it not for the demands of my profession and my obligations to my family I would certainly be offering for reelection in order to ensure the positive momentum of our County’s present course.

It is only with great skill and diligence we have been able to keep our County on a firm financial footing during these perilous times. Our services have been essentially preserved, while property taxes and other income streams have been substantially reduced. Understanding the evolving economic situation, setting aside reserves, and improving operational efficiencies have put Saint Johns County in a far better position than most counties in Florida. It is gratifying to know my training and experience allowed me to make positive contributions to this process. Only a continuation of our present policies and stewardship can ensure a successful navigation through this economic downturn, and preserve our quality of life.

This realization has caused me anxiety since I first understood running for a four year term conflicted with other aspects of my life. I stated back in the spring I would watch closely to see if a candidate emerged who had the skills, integrity, and dedication to carry on the important work I have been involved in as your Commissioner. I stated then that if such a candidate emerged, I would not hesitate to lend my full support to their candidacy. I am greatly pleased and relieved that such a candidate does exist in the District 4 race.

After observing his campaign, exploring his background, and engaging in in-depth conversations with him, I am convinced that the citizens of our County will be well served to have Jay Morris as their next County Commissioner from District 4. Jay has an impeccable background of service to his country as a decorated pilot in the Vietnam conflict, a highly successful Fortune 500 company executive, and a dedicated family man. He brings exactly the right skill set to the table at a time when those skills are desperately needed. It is my belief he will not only be an asset to the County team, he will avoid any appearance of impropriety or self-serving behavior.

This community has my deepest gratitude for the opportunity and support I have been given. If my personal circumstances should ever permit I would not hesitate to serve again. But since this is not the case at present, I highly recommend that the citizens of this County lend their enthusiastic support to Jay Morris. This is perhaps the most important local election in which you will ever have the opportunity to vote. A mistake now could have long reaching consequences.

Sincerely,
Phil Mays
St. Johns County Commissioner, District 4

Photo credit: © 2010 Historic City News staff photograph