Derrell Gardner
Let me start by saying "thank you" to the people of Ft Myers for encouraging me to campaign for Mayor.
I am happily married with two small, beautiful children. I have been working and living in Ft. Myers for almost 12 years and can see the real potential of our city from a family and working man's point of view.
I graduated from Miami's Southridge Senior High in 1982. I then went into the U.S. Army for six years where I served in Special Forces. Mylast duty station was at the J.F.K Center at Ft. Bragg, N.C.After serving my country, I wanted to see more of the country and spent time in MO, TX, TN and then returned home to Florida. Of all the skills I learned, my custom made furniture business, which I started in 1987, was my favorite and was the most universally accepted. When I moved to Ft. Myers in 1997, I was quickly able to earn a living with it. After all, I had been mentored by my Grandfather and father since I was five.
However, my business, like so many others, has had to adapt with thechanges thrown at it over the years. While offering beautiful furniture, I found a need for appliances and other home improvement items so I started that business as well. Eventually, I opened a thrift shop on Hansen St. where folks could come and browse. Since I now had a supply of building material, I began to rehab homes in our neighborhood that had fallen into disrepair. After all, I am a carpenter by trade. While rehabing homes, I was brought face to face with many of the problems plaguing city government today. I ran up against obstacles in almost every department.
Some of which were so silly I felt that they certainly could be handled better.
While talking to folks, I discovered many others had the same problems.
As I complained, people began to suggest that I run for office or at least volunteer for something like the Planning Board. I am currently a member of the Planning Board and, as such, have seen even more areas that need improvement.This has all led to my candidacy for Mayor. I have talked with everyone I can find who will talk to me about what issues they are faced with and I am convinced that I am the person to take these problems head-on. As is more than evident that I am not an attorney or a banker.
Rather, I am a hard working, practical and energetic businessman. I believe government is for the safety and well being of everyone in the community. Our tax dollars should be spent for everyone's betterment so all can enjoy living in the greatest country in the world. In order to earn that, we all must work together!
I love heart fort ft myers
Derrell Gardner '09
http://derrellgardner.com/about.html
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