Broxson named chairman
BY PAM BRANNON Gulf Breeze News news@gulfbreezenews.com

Gulf Breeze businessman and county commissioner John Broxson is the new county chairman. He was elected at last week's re-organizational meeting of the Santa Rosa County Commission, nominated by commissioner Gordon Goodin of Navarre and elected unanimously.

Broxson told commissioners and those attending the commission meeting that being a county commissioner has been the job he has enjoyed the most in his long public service career.

"People ask me why would I enjoy that the most, since it is the closest to the people and all their problems. That is why I like it," Broxson said. "I like being close to the people we are trying to help. You can really hear what their concerns and problems are and really try to fix them close up."

Broxson recalled how his father was elected to the Santa Rosa County Commission over 70 years ago and served for more than one term.

"Then later he went on to run for sheriff and was elected, but just as he was finishing his first term he was killed in an auto accident," Broxson said. "My mom was then appointed sheriff for a few days by the governor, who then turned around and appointed me. I was only 27 years old and asked the governor if he was sure a 27-year-old could handle the heavy responsibilities of being sheriff," Broxson laughed. "Then of course later I went on to serve in the state House of representatives and then still later became a Florida State Senator. But out of all those jobs, this has been my favorite so far," Broxson said.

His wife and several members of his family were present for the changing of the gavel ceremony at the meeting. Broxson pointed out that he and his wife live in Gulf Breeze and have raised five children, have 15 grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. Several nieces and nephews were in attendance, also.

"I sometimes quip to people that coming here and watching us work in the Sunshine laws of Florida is kind of like making sausage, it grinds slow. But I can assure you, after working with al these gentlemen and this staff, everyone here takes this job very seriously. These commissioners just do not take themselves too seriously - they each one want to do public service, and it is evident in how they work for you."