Candidate: CECIL L PENDERGRASS

Cecil is a dedicated public servant who utilizes a common sense approach to decision making. As a lifelong resident of Fort Myers, he appreciates the importance of preserving and protecting the Florida ecosystem while promoting growth to stimulate the local economy. He also believes that core services and conservative spending must be considered a priority. Experience, leadership abilities, commitment and integrity provide him with the strength to be an effective community leader. Cecil has proudly devoted his life to public service. He was elected to the Lee County Board of County Commissioners, District 2 in November 2012. In a vote of confidence from his colleagues, he was unanimously sworn in as Chairman of the Board at his first meeting. He also served as Chair of the Board of Port Commissioners during his first year on the Commission. In his capacity as County Commissioner, Cecil serves as liaison to the Horizon Council, Lee County Legislative Delegation, Sheriff’s Office, Public Safety Coordinating Council, Black Affairs Advisory Council, Hispanic Affairs Advisory Council, Florida Gulf Coast University, and Local Coordinating Board for the Transportation Disadvantaged. In addition, he serves as Director on the Transportation and Expressway Authority Membership of Florida Board and is a member on the Lee Memorial Health System Trauma Advisory Committee. Cecil’s career serving our community began when he was sworn in as a City of Fort Myers Police Officer in 1984, where he and faithfully served for 25 years. During this time his focus was to improve the quality of life for those he encountered. He served as Vice-Chairman for six years on the Department of Justice Weed and Seed Board, which provided grant money to local non-profit organizations for the betterment of area youth. Cecil’s success throughout his law enforcement career is attributed to his unwavering work ethic and unique ability to bring together the desires of the community with City and County resources. He retired from the Fort Myers Police Department on December 31, 2008 and subsequently became Vice President for Private Asset Management Group, LLC, an independent financial asset firm that helps clients establish, pursue, and maintain their short- and long-term financial objectives. Cecil has been recognized for his unique abilities by state and local officials as well as numerous community groups, some of which include: Senator Burt Saunders Award recipient, Mayors Gold Key Award, Employee of the Year, Employee of the Month, Courtesy Officer of the Month, City of Fort Myers Proclamation recipient, East Fort Myers Rotary Officer of the Month, and Life Saving Award. He was highly decorated upon retiring from the Fort Myers Police Department with the following Medals of Honor: Croix De Negotiator Laurel, Distinguished Volunteer Service Cross, Exceptional Service (2), Good Conduct, Honorable Service (2), Officials Medal, The Triumphant and Unit Citation.