August 1, 2018 5:00 p.m.
Editor’s Note: Every year, the Fernandina Observer presents a series of questions to candidates to help our readers be informed voters. We have disabled the ability for our readers to offer comments on this page. Thank you for responding to our request and for running for office.
Scott Hanna
Ocean Highway & Port Authority
District 3
To view Hanna’s press release click here.
What is the future for the Ocean Highway and Port Authority?
I think the Port can have a great future! We do need to do some housekeeping though. We need to update the charter for the current century. Adding new areas where
the Port can serve a purpose and increase profitability, but also recognizing we have a commitment to the people who live in the City and their quality of life.
Where and how do you see OHPA enhancing county economic development beyond
the Port of Fernandina?
The Port has bonding authority. I think it can get involved in a great many projects to assist in infrastructure in the future. The Port is an asset to our community, and we need to take advantage of it for the benefit of Nassau County citizens.
Since many successful ports around the state are part of general government,
should OHPA continue to be an independent organization or should it
consolidate with Nassau County government?
I think Nassau County has its hands full already managing the steady stream of growth coming into the county. I think by resting the Port on their shoulders we may not see the
best outcome for the Port, or more importantly, the families employed there. Their jobs are an important part of our local economy.
Scott Hanna faces Incumbent Adam Salzburg for District 3, OHPA. All voters, will be allowed to vote in this race which will be decided on August 28.
Adam Salzburg
Incumbent Candidate
Ocean Highway & Port Authority
District 3
What is the future for the Ocean Highway and Port Authority?
The future is bright for OHPA and the citizens of Nassau County. We have a new port operator who is aggressively seeking new customers to utilize the Port of Fernandina. More business at the port means more good paying jobs.
Where and how do you see OHPA enhancing county economic development beyond the Port of Fernandina?
We are in the beginning stages of a new Master Plan. We encourage all residents of Nassau County to have direct input into future projects both on and off the port property. There are potential site locations at Crawford Diamond on the westside of the county to build industrial facilities for manufacturing.
3.Since many successful ports around the state are part of general government, should OHPA continue to be an independent organization or should it consolidate with Nassau County government?
As an independent special district, OHPA has the ability to cross county and even state lines to assist with projects. A previous example when OHPA has done this was when Heckscher Drive was built from the south end of the island to Jacksonville near the ferry. OHPA acquired a bond to pay for the project.
Incumbent Adam Salzburg, will face Scott Hanna in the upcoming election for OHPA, District 3. All voters, will be allowed to vote in this race which will be decided on August 28.