Candidate: Cathy Townsend

I have been a small business owner in the community for 23 years. The mother of 4 sons, I have owned and operated an assisted living facility for eleven years and a bed and breakfast for ten years. My background in real estate has helped prepare me for success in small business. I currently own a Flat Land Mowing company with my husband James \"Bud\" King. While serving the past two years as the St Lucie County Planning and Zoning Commission Chair, many in the community recognize my name because of my experience as a volunteer and passion for helping promote and build a better community. As an avid dancer, not only did I teach country line dancing at a variety of adult communities, churches, organizations, and educational outlets in St. Lucie County, I also created and produced the successful Dancing With the PALs Annual Celebrity Dance contest to benefit the Fort Pierce Police Athletic League. A former student of Indian River Community College, I am also a longtime member of the League of Women Voters of St. Lucie County. Served as the organization’s president for twelve years. I have served with Deaf Service Center of St. Lucie County, the Moose Lodge, the Exchange Club of Ft Pierce, Elks Club, and the Fort Pierce Police Athletic League. I am excited about meeting even more neighbors and residents of District Five and St. Lucie County at large. I am also looking forward to an opportunity to continue to serve the community in a different and meaningful way. “My ears and heart are open to learn as much as I can about the needs of our community, in order to address those needs and make a positive impact.” “I hope to be able to help create a climate that is conducive to small businesses and create good long-term jobs for St. Lucie County citizens. It’s going to be an exciting journey, and I look forward to sharing it with you.”