Candidate: Staci McMonagle
Email: s.d.mcmonagle@gmail.com
Phone: 904-477-4086
Campaign website: https://www.fernandinafirst.com/
Q: Why did you decide to run for City Commission?
A: I’ve lived in Fernandina Beach for over three decades. I’ve worked here, built a business here, and watched our community grow and change over the years. I decided to run for City Commission because I love this community and care deeply about its future.
I have become increasingly concerned that some decisions affecting our city seem to be influenced by interests outside our community rather than the residents who live here every day. I believe city government should listen to its citizens, operate with transparency, spend taxpayer dollars wisely and plan responsibly for the future.
I’m not running because of one single issue. I’m running because I believe Fernandina Beach needs common-sense leadership focused on the people who call this community home.
Q: As you’ve campaigned, what are frequent concerns being voiced by residents, and, if elected, what steps will you take to address these concerns?
A: The concern I hear most often is that residents feel they are not being heard or served by their city government. I share that concern, and it was a large part of why I entered this race.
I’m also concerned about the growth of the city’s operating budget, staffing levels in some areas, and how we prioritize taxpayer dollars, especially when major needs such as flood protection and aging infrastructure remain.
I believe we can support a strong local economy while protecting our quality of life. That requires setting clear priorities and making sure our most important needs are addressed first.
Q: What perspectives and experience will you bring to the commission that are unique to you and differentiate you from other candidates?
A: For more than 30 years, I’ve worked in a variety of fields, including managing a law office, hospitality and healthcare, as well as owning and operating a small business. Those experiences have taught me the importance of solving problems, managing budgets responsibly and treating people with dignity and respect by taking the time to listen.
I’m not running with a personal agenda or financial interests that could influence my decisions. I will do my homework, look at the facts and data and make informed decisions based on what I believe is best for Fernandina Beach.
Q: Tell me what you would do in your first 100 days in office to deliver on campaign promises.
A: In my first 100 days, I would begin with a careful review of the city’s budget, staffing, major contracts and spending priorities. I want to look closely at five years of staffing growth, General Fund transfers and major professional services contracts to better understand the trends and identify opportunities for savings.
My focus would be on responsible spending and making sure critical needs such as flood protection, aging infrastructure, stormwater and essential city services receive the attention they deserve.
I would also make it a priority to remain accessible, do my homework and explain the reasoning behind my decisions. Accountability begins with being willing to answer questions.
Q: What makes you a good representative of the Fernandina Beach community?
A: I believe I would be a good representative of Fernandina Beach because I share the love, commitment and sense of community that make this place so special. The heart of Fernandina is our neighbors and the way we care about this community and one another.
We value our history, our natural beauty and our small-town character. I understand the heart of this community because I have been part of it for more than three decades, and it is that heart that has kept me here.
I want to protect what makes Fernandina unique and make sure Fernandina Beach remains Fernandina Beach, not just another coastal community.
Note: The candidate’s photograph and statement are supplied by the candidate and are not endorsed by Nassau NewsLine.
