Northside Business Leaders

December 3, 2010

Jerry Holland

Duval County Supervisor of Elections

My interview with Jerry Holland took place on December 3, 2010. He agreed to be interviewed some months back, however, he wanted to wait until after the elections, which are his busiest time. He was gracious, and showed no fear of entering the Spotlight. Jerry’s history in Jacksonville began in 1969. He had many accomplishments during his life. He has a degree in Transportation & Logistics, he acquired a General Contractor’s License, a Real Estate Broker’s License, a teaching certificate, and was hired by the FBI as an administrator. Always wanting to go into Public Service, Jerry ran for City Council in 1995. He lost by 46 votes. Not letting this deter him, he ran again in 1999 and won! His interest in being Supervisor of Elections came when, as City Council President, he was on the Canvassing Board. When the current Supervisor became ill, Jerry ran in the Special Election in 2005 and won. He was elected again in 2007.

He explained the City Council Districts, and what they mean to all of us. There is the County Wide, District, and At-Large. There are also write-in candidates. As a frequent voter of Mickey Mouse, he explained why Mickey never wins. He would have to qualify 75 days ahead. He would either have to pay the qualifying fee, or qualify by petition. Since he is a fictitious character, he would not qualify at all.

The amendments have to be on the ballot too. They may vary in size, so the Supervisor’s office needs to know six months ahead of time what Amendments will be on the ballot so that they may prepare.

Early voting has reduced Election Day problems because the voters are spread out over a period of time. In turn, the election process runs more efficiently. On Election Day, there are 256 precincts currently. The hardest thing, according to Jerry, is finding the location for a precinct. They look at the poll location, number of voters, and amenities for the poll workers, and they must be ADA compliant.

Jerry was the Northside Business Leaders “Elected Official of the Year.” He states he was honored and surprised by this. He contends this award is a reflection of the staff at the Supervisor’s office, and not on him alone.

Jerry has been married for over 35 years. He has a 28 year old son, who is in the Police Academy, a daughter-in-law, who is a teacher, and a 7 month old grandson, Ethan. He loves fishing, golf, and spending time with his family.

Thank you for entering the Spotlight. As always, thank you to Paul Forte for videotaping the interview.

***SPECIAL NOTE*** After the recent newspaper article in the Times Union, I would like to point out that just because our picture appeared in last month’s newsletter, Jerry Holland is NOT endorsing my company.

  Shannon Elian,  PropVoice Management