Sonny Haas announced that he is a candidate for District 2 on the Lee County Board of County Commissioners currently held by Commissioner Brian Bigelow.

He does not reside within the district. In 2008 he ran against District 5 Commissioner Frank Mann and was defeated.

“I have a desire to serve and unfinished business,” Haas said.

He served on the Lehigh Acres Fire Board from 2002 to 2006 but was defeated for reelection by two votes which put Julie Barrett in office.

If elected, he said his objectives would be “transparency with our board of commissioners, stabilization of the office, and to create jobs, longstanding jobs.”

How would you handle the shortfall in revenue, he was asked.

“Absolutely not raise the millage rate, streamline all agencies and insist on efficiency, and reduce spending.

“What to reduce is hard to say. People are raising heck about beautifying the medians when we may have to lay off deputies and paramedics. I would prioritize spending and enhance core services, he said.

“The commissioners have not done an analysis” he said.

Haas said that he runs a roofing business on the side.

“I understand what people are going through. I look forward to a very positive campaign regardless of who may file for the seat,” Haas said.

Melissa Isley, a professional photographer, is his campaign manager. She also does part-time public relation work.