Candidate: Mark S Batchelor

Better communities for a brighter future

District 1 has been well represented on the Board of County Commissioners for the past twenty years, as evidenced by the vital growth in new homes, businesses, shopping, and dining. Yet there remains much to be done.

Mark Batchelor understands the urgent nature of placing the right person as Commissioner of Collier County District 1. His primary concern is to ensure future growth maintains the critical balance of the county’s dynamic ecosystem and the external factors that affect it, while creating a vibrant venue for establishing better communities. This is why Mark has announced his candidacy for the position.

Mark’s significant experience in corporate contract negotiations and community management in Naples uniquely qualifies him for the position of District 1 Commissioner, giving him “an-ear-on-the-ground” perspective of homeowner concerns.

“Collier residents understand the need for more than ‘one size fits all’ housing options. They want homes that enable those who ensure our health and safety—police, firefighters, and nurses—to live comfortably in the area they serve rather than commuting from Fort Myers. When we better serve our essential-service professionals, they can better serve us,” says Mark.

Mark’s vision for a brighter future of District 1 includes a facelift of the Tamiami Trail from Fifth Avenue South to Collier Boulevard and then south to Marco Island. “We don’t need any more unsightly discount retail centers when we can instead offer better restaurants, shopping, and places for our youth to enjoy—all of which provide jobs,” says Mark.

Business Experience

A veteran of the United States Air Force, Mark’s 30-year business career included working for technical giants Xerox, Océ Business Systems, and Topcall Corporation, where he served as Director of Technical support for North and South America.

“Over the course of my time in the technical industry I conducted literally hundreds of RFPs (requests for proposals), which required the vetting of contractors’ quality of work, business experience, expertise, cost comparisons, and conducting background checks,” says Mark. His RFP experience has served him well. After moving from Philadelphia to Naples in 2005 and earning his Community Association Manager license, Mark’s ability to quickly and efficiently vet vendors became a valuable asset to the communities he serves.

Personal Life

Mark and Jeri Batchelor are the parents of five adult children and grandparents of twelve. One daughter and son-in-law also live in Naples, where their children attend Barron Collier High School and Pine Ridge Elementary. One son served in the United States Army, and is a veteran of the Iraq War. Mark and Jeri are members of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in South Naples.

“Jeri and I chose to live in South Naples because of its proximity to the beaches, downtown, and Marco Island. We refer to it as ‘Naples’ best-kept secret,’” says Mark. “But considering the anticipated vibrant growth in the area, it won’t be a secret much longer.”

Civic Life

Mark is a member of:

·         Republican Men’s Club

·         CCRC (GOP Club of Collier)

·         Knights of Columbus

·         East Naples Civic Association

·         Captains of Clean Water

·         National Rifle Association

·         American Legion

He has served on two homeowner association boards: as president of Fairway Villas and a director of Lely Country Club Homeowners Association.