Below are Cedar Key Water and Sewer Board run-off candidate Seth Colson`s answers to questions posed by the Cedar Key News in its continued interest of informing the public on substantive issues. The second candidate vying for the position, Teresa George, submitted her responses earlier; they were posted in the Cedar Key News on April 29. The News staff hopes these responses will assist you in voting on Tuesday, May 7, 2013, at City Hall. Why do I feel I am qualified for a seat on the District Board? I have been a lifelong conservator of water and a steward of the environment from my 4H participation
in school, my life as a commercial fisherman, and my genuine concern for our coastal community
through coastal cleanup efforts and personal conservation practices. I come from a family with an active
history of water and sewer improvement projects and environmental stewardship. I served in the Army
and subsequently attended college graduating with an AS Degree in Law Enforcement. Since that time I
have spent over 18 years in public service as a law enforcement officer. During which I served 3 years in
an administrative capacity as a chief of police. I would like to expand my public service to include
administration on the Board. I understand our water and sewer needs and the importance of
conservation efforts as well as providing affordable service to our community. What do I see as major concerns for the District in the next several years? - The district has embarked on a major project that will require continued oversight and guidance
from the board throughout its construction. The project will result in improvements in service
lines that will connect several dead ends forming loops. This process is essential to improve
water service, reduce waste, and improve water quality. - There are sections of lines being replaced through the substrate and under water along our
bridges to reduce the likelihood of damage in severe weather. -The reverse osmosis equipment has been installed recently to combat the salt water instruction
issue. - There is a dire need for renovations to the existing plant that are being addressed.
All of these current projects will need to continue to be managed and be on the forefront of the board`s
focus until they are completed. They will benefit our community and be much appreciated by our
residents. In addition, it is imperative that we continue to closely monitor the sewage waste water plant. It is
essential that the plant operate at its highest efficiency to insure the protection of our fisheries and
natural resources. Is there something I would like to accomplish while on the board? The projects in the previous question are what I would focus on first. The next steps would be to work as
a Board with the community to address future needs and how we can best continue to provide service,
strengthen conservation efforts, and keep service as affordable as possible. How could I educate Cedar Key residents to be better water stewards? It is my opinion that we have been above the curve here in Cedar Key. We have water reclamation in our
public areas; our school has reduced water usage by retrofitting bath fixtures with low flow models, and
we have a strong citizen base of water conscious people. I believe the use of social media and maintaining
open lines of communication is integral to the continued education of our residents about water
conservation efforts. If I had to cite three reasons for low water tables in North Florida, what would they be in priority
order? - State Government Administration - Over allocation of water in highly populated areas of the state that have caused a
drawdown of the aquifer in other areas - Environmental - Drought conditions over the past 10-15 years/salt water intrusion in the coastal areas - Public - Consumer waste of water resources statewide How many meetings have I attended in the past year? Although I have not attended any board meetings in the past year I do keep up with current Board
projects and water issues. What specifically do I think I can contribute to the District`s Board? I have strong problem solving skills and ability to work as a team to achieve goals. I have a history of
proven public service; honesty; integrity, and compassion through my career. I come with an open mind
and sound judgment. Being a long time resident and homeowner, I have a vested interest in our
community and its future. | 
