District 1: Harford/Owen

This election is the third time that incumbent Democrat Mike Harford and Republican challenger Paul Owen face off.

Both are qualified to serve on the County Commission, but we think Harford has more of a connection to the district.

Harford, 59, touts efforts he’s taken to enhance government transparency and economic development. Harford has also been behind improvements in infrastructure, especially in the Intercession City and Campbell areas, which he helped get separated from the Celebration census designation in order to make grant funds available for street lights, new bus service and a health clinic.

Owen, 73, said he’ll lean on eight years of prior service and his successful business background to accomplish things he wasn’t able to when he lost the last election, like help spur job creation. Owen said he’d work to cut commissioner’s pay in half — proving they are it in for the service to taxpayers and less for the paycheck — and scrutinize the budget.

But we believe Owen is more of a politician. Harford, born and raised in Osceola, comes off more genuine.

The News-Gazette endorses Mike Harford

District 3: Arrington/Goldmacher

When it comes to district 3, it’s no secret that Incumbent Democrat Brandon Arrington has made strides for his constituents.

We saw that when Arrington, 37,  took office there was no plan for the Osceola County Expressway Authority, Poinciana Parkway, a permanent health clinic in Poinciana or county-wide curbside recycling.

Arrington also worked tirelessly to include Kissimmee in phase I of SunRail.

Republican opponent Jeffery Goldmacher, a driving force in Poinciana’s fight against incorporation, joined the race, and won the Republican primary, when those who he represented asked him to take their concerns to the county level.

Goldmacher, 56, also has a successful business background to fall back on and we believe his heart is in the right place, but Arrington has the experience and track record to show.

The News-Gazette endorses Brandon Arrington.

District 5: Hawkins/Carnell

Another incumbent, Republican Fred Hawkins, seeks a second term against another political newcomer, Chad Carnell, who is running without party affiliation.

Hawkins has been a part of streamlining the county’s budget, which has included making tough cuts in staff in a down economy. He’s helped citizens becoming more involved and informed, noting Narcoossee’s involvement in its growth through the Narcoossee Overlay Plan.

Carnell’s background comes from running non-profit companies, and said he comes without any conflicts of interest.

But we just don’t believe what he has to offer trumps Hawkins’ experience and accomplishments. Plus, he has refused to debate Hawkins in several forums. We think that is a transparency problem.

The News-Gazette endorses Fred Hawkins.