Leadership that Listens: Why Pamela is the Change Alachua County Needs

When I first decided to get involved in Pamela Marshall-Koons’

campaign for Alachua County Sheriff, I didn’t just see a candidate,

I saw someone who reflected the kind of leadership our

community desperately needs. Her government management and

public policy skills are so impressive that she got a phone call

from Washington, D. C. Most people don’t know that Pamela was

interviewed for Under Secretary for USDA Rural Development

during the President Barack Obama Administration. Now that’s

impressive.

It’s been said that there are probably not five people in the United

States with Pamela’s diverse work experience. From being the

Chief of Staff for the Mayor of one of the largest counties in the

U.S., to Vice President of Public Policy and Legislative Affairs for

a Chamber of Commerce to Executive Director of a Tri-State

Economic Development Agency to being a wife, mom and a

grandma like me. We both understand that safety isn’t just about

numbers or policies - it’s about people. I remember when my

family faced a crisis that could have been prevented if only

someone had been there, not just to respond, but to “listen”

before the situation escalated.

At our first Virtual Town Hall Meeting, Pamela shared powerful

stories of how mental illness has been criminalized. Too many fall

through the cracks due to a lack of access to medication and

support services. Pamela’s SAFETY Blueprint focuses on

proactive solutions to keep people out of the criminal justice

system. She’s creating solutions now, not waiting for a crisis.

Pamela isn’t just offering leadership - she’s offering hope. I

believe in her because she listens, she acts, and she cares

deeply for every single person in this County regardless of

political party, race or gender. That’s why I’m urging you to join

our Virtual Town Hall Meetings every Tuesday at 7:00 pm (ET).

I want you to hear for yourself how she plans to transform

Alachua County.

This isn’t just another election, it’s a chance to

vote for someone who will truly fight for us, every day.

I am retired and I have been blessed to witness many historic

events in our community. I know your support for Pamela 4 Sheriff

will be a resounding echo of promise for my grandchildren,

great-grandchildren and for generations to come.

Ms. J. Kelly

Gainesville, Florida