Candidate: Thomas Ford

Nassau County is at a crossroads. The recent burst of growth we’ve experienced has cascaded into several issues that to many seem completely out of control. We need new leadership, new ideas, and a more focused approach to growth. My name is Thomas Ford and I love Nassau County.

I was born and raised in Bryceville, FL as several generations of my family were before me. In fact, my three times great-grandfather was the town’s namesake. At a young age I learned hard work on my family’s farm. We raised beef cattle and grew hay. I would start work at sunup and tend to the farm until and sometimes past sunset. It was during those long days my love for that way of life grew and the work ethic became part of my fiber.

Later in life in addition to farming my family taught me the construction business. It was there I learned about building, planning, and growth. I saw that the farms of my youth were disappearing and realized there had to be some rational way to keep the old ways the way they were while bringing new ideas, new growth, and new tax revenue to the place I love.

Through those experiences I became involved with the Florida Farm Bureau Federation. That organization built my leadership skills to the point where I feel ready to lead Nassau County in a new direction. Through the Farm Bureau I applied for and served on the Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Committee. In short order, my peers elected me Florida State President and I had an opportunity to represent the state in the national organization. More recently, I have been elected as a district representative on the Farm Bureau state Board of Directors.

Born and raised in Bryceville, FL; Seventh Generation Resident

Nassau County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, Board Member

Nassau County’s Young Farmers and Ranchers, Former State President

Nassau County Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee, Board Member

Nassau County Codes Enforcement Board, Board Member

Nassau County Soil and Water Board, Commissioner