Candidate: Samantha Prueter

I’m Samantha Prueter, a fifth-generation Floridian. Over 19 years ago, my family and I fell in love with the rural farming community of Hamilton County and its breathtaking beauty when we moved here from Naples, FL. Born in Tampa, I was adopted at just 9 months old and grew up in Naples.

My husband, Mark, and I have been happily married for 26 years. We reside in our charming Cape Cod-style home, built in 1941, right here in the small Town of Jennings. It’s where we raised our four children, all of whom graduated from Hamilton County High School. During my time as a Town Council Member, I had the honor of serving two non-consecutive terms, including two years as the first female Mayor from 2020 to 2022.

As Mayor, I played a pivotal role in the re-development efforts at I-75 & Exit 467. Under my leadership, the Town Council initiated improvements at the interstate, all while keeping taxes low and ensuring our citizens were well served.

My mom is from the Ten Thousand Islands off the Florida coast, where her family worked as commercial fishermen. Meanwhile, my dad, a coal miner’s son from West Virginia, introduced me to bluegrass and country music, often adding a touch of yodeling. I have fond memories of net fishing with my mom in Naples Bay, preparing for Friday night fish frys at our home, where we entertained friends, family, and my dad’s employees. Mullet was our prized catch.

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to meet my biological mom for the first time, and we’re slowly building a relationship.

Throughout the years, I’ve actively served my community. I’ve been involved in various organizations, including the Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce (where I served as a Past President) and the Lake City Board of Realtors (where I’m currently a member). Additionally, I’ve held positions on the Hamilton County High School Band Parents committee, the Hamilton County Council on Aging, Lake Park Nutrition, and the Southern Lifestyle Real Estate Group DBA United Country Real Estate | Lifestyle Properties.

I absolutely love supporting other businesses and actively participating in community events like Trunk or Treats, festivals, and parades. It’s a wonderful way to connect with people and celebrate our community.

Over the years, I’ve achieved significant recognition in the real estate industry. I’ve been honored to rank in Real Trends’ America’s Best Real Estate Agents, receive the RE/MAX 100% Award for numerous years, and even earn a lifetime achievement RE/MAX Hall of Fame award. Additionally, I proudly received the Top Brokerage Award at United Country Real Estate for the past two years. These accolades are a testament to the incredible customers who have entrusted me to help them achieve their American Dream, whether it’s through home ownership, land and farm purchases, business opportunities, or vacation and rental homes.

As an experienced businesswoman and the current owner of a successful brokerage, I pride myself on being dependable, dedicated, and positive. I thrive on solving problems and helping people. I look forward to helping the community in my role as Hamilton County Property Appraiser. While I won’t be actively working in my business listing or selling property, I will still maintain ownership and contribute to the betterment of our community.

Remember to mark your calendars: Elect Samantha Prueter for Hamilton County Property Appraiser on August 20, 2024.

And my personal motto remains: Valuing OUR Community, Valuing YOUR Trust, Valuing YOU.