Candidate: Jim Marquardt

I believe we can do better. Quite simply better.

My name is Jim Marquardt and I have made Key West my home for almost 20 years. I love this city! I hold a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications Management and have directed News, Commercials and Documentaries for NBC, ABC and The Signal Companies to mention a few. I have traveled all over the world and could have chosen anywhere to settle. I chose Key West! I have been on several Boards, The Innkeepers and the GLCC. I have volunteered my time with ART Key West, TSKW, Aids Help, Waterfront Playhouse to mention a few.

I have been the General Manager of the Gardens Hotel since 2010. The Gardens Hotel is the first Twin Palm Certified Green Lodging with the State of Florida in Key West; A program that we must do better each year. Leading by example. I am pro Solar, wind and water power. Currently solar is distanced at 2021 and not very much for Keys Energy. Our energy is from coal and gas burning.

Our biggest issue facing us is the result of hurricane Irma. Almost $40 million still to come from FEMA. Until then a tightened budget is the only solution.

Previous boards have touted that an additional seat on the Board for those customers living past MM 13 to 44, currently not represented on the board, would take an act of God – a change in law – impossible, we were told! Well Legislature was changed, partly due to Christine Gorham. And look at this election! We now have 4 great people stepping up to represent those customers on the new board. I applaud them and wish them all the best.

I thank you for your interest in me, the Utility Board and the Election. I will be proud to represent your vote on the Keys Energy Utility Board, Seat A.

You can connect with me via facebook: Jim Marquardt for Utility Board, Seat A, phone: 305-304-7683 or US Mail: 204 Olivia Street, Key West, FL 33040. And of course email: Tallerjim@icloud.com