Jerry Neel of Dellwood Wants District 5 Commission Seat

7/31/08
Dellwood native throws hat into political contest
By Sid Riley
"I just want to do my part to make things better for the people of Jackson County," was Jerry Neel’s reason when asked why he was entering the race for the District 5 Commissioner’s seat.
Jerry Neel and his family live on property near Dellwood that has been in the Neel family for 150 years. His roots run deep in the soil and history of Jackson County. Jerry graduated from the Sneads High School in the class of 1972, after which he attended Chipola College. He is the son of Earnest and Ima Jean Neel (both deceased), who lived south of Dellwood.
His bride of 33 years is the former Susie Andrews, also of Dellwood. They have three children, a son and two daughters. They also have two grandchildren, with a third due in September. Jerry and his entire family are members of the Welcome Assembly of God Church in Dellwood, were he is a deacon, President of Men’s Fellowship, while Susie serves as Sunday School Superintendent. Jerry has also served in World Missions for his church, traveling to South Africa to help in construction of a new church.
Jerry has worked as a building contractor working as co-owner of J & J Neel Construction, while he also worked as a Vocational Training Supervisor, Maintenance Supervisor, and Construction Cost Estimator at Sunland. He feels his experience as a businessman and his responsibilities at Sunland will greatly enhance his abilities as a County Commissioner.
Neel’s political philosophy is simple. He believes that local government should remain responsive to the needs and desires of the citizens. He plans to work as an instrument for the people of District 5, and Jackson County. He is especially dedicated to roads improvements, increased recreational opportunities for youth and seniors, and improved fire and police protection in rural areas. He hopes to enhance use of waterways in District 5, such as the Chipola River, Merritts Mill Pond and Lake Seminole. He believes in promoting industrial development and creation of job opportunities in a way that retains the rural character of our area.
"If elected, I pledge to always serve honestly in a hard working manner in order to make a positive difference in the lives of the citizens of Jackson County", he concludes. Jerry Neel can be reached at 209-5654.