GAINESVILLE - Another candidate, Andre' Cheek, has confirmed plans to run for the seat on the Gainesville City Council being vacated by Myrtle Figueras.
Cheek works as an Outreach Unit Program Coordinator in the Office of Reentry Services for the state Department of Juvenile Justice,
Cheek said Wednesday she decided to enter the race upon learning of Figueras' decision not to see re-election.
"My community recognizes the many ways I've been engaged and involved through my work in education and volunteer service, with various service organizations in our community," she said. "Serving as council representative would be an extension of my work in the community and would provide an opportunity for me to broaden my reach and represent all constituents of Ward 3.
Cheek adds her service to the community runs deep.
"Memberships on various community boards have afforded me the opportunity of working with local business leaders who love our community. My local community has nominated me for the following recognitions: Chamber of Commerce Leadership Hall 2004, the Coretta Scott King Diversity Award, the National Association of Professional Women, Hall County Civil Service Board, board member of the Newtown Florist Club, and the Gainesville City School System State Parent Advisory Council member for Superintendent John Barge. Currently, I'm serving on the board of The Little House: The Edmondson-Telford Center for Children."
Two other candidates have announced plans to run for the post, Lemuel Betancourt and Barbara Brooks. The election will be held Nov. 3, with qualifying set to begin on Monday.
Figueras, meanwhile, emphasized Wednesday that she is sticking to her plans to leave the council at the end of the year, despite some speculation a few weeks ago that she might change her mind.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2015/8/331926/another-candidate-plans-to-run-for-gainesville-city-council