Candidate: Jerry Prater

My name is Jerry Prater and I am humbly asking for your vote on or before August 20th, 2024.

My family and I moved to Bay County in May of 1995 when I assumed the position of Fire Chief for the City of Panama City Fire Department.

Many years ago I was in a dead end job that did not provide much of a future or job satisfaction. My friend suggested I become a Volunteer Firefighter. This was not a career I had ever considered, however I realized that this was a profession in which I could make a difference in the lives of the people I came in contact with. In 1972 I joined the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service and worked there for 23 years before retiring and assuming the position of Fire Chief of the Panama City Fire Department. During my time with the BFRS I rose up through the ranks as a Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain, Chief Fire Marshall and Battalion Chief. I also obtained an Associate Degree in Fire Science, a Bachelor's Degree in Fire Service Management and a Master's Degree in Public and Private Management. I also became a State Licensed Paramedic and was certified as an Executive Fire Officer by the National Fire Academy among many other certifications.

On May 7, 1995, I became Fire Chief of the Panama City Fire Department. Shortly thereafter, I began working with Gulf Coast State College to build a program in which we could train Florida State Certified Firefighters. The program was hugely effective and continues to this day. The College awards a "Certificate of Excellence" in my name at each graduating class. In 2009 it was such an honor for the City of Panama City to name the new state of the art classroom and emergency use kitchen facility at the Fire Training Facility after me. Being Fire Chief of the PCFD was rewarding but I missed being in direct contact with people. I believe that we need to give back to our community in as many ways as possible. I became a mentor at New Horizon Alternative School and continued after my retirement for serval years. I also worked with Meals on Wheels and became a member of the Panama City Civil Service Board, a position I continue to hold having served as the Chair.

My Republican Party background is that I am a Precinct Committeeman for Precinct 16 and have been involved with all party activities since 2000.

I believe I have the experience, the academic background and the desire to represent you as the Republican State Committeeman for Bay County. Again, I humbly as for your vote on or before August 20th, 2024. Thank you for your voting effort.