Meet the Alachua County Commission District 1 candidate: A Q&A with Dejeon Cain

Dejeon Cain is a candidate for the Alachua County Commission District 1 seat and will face the incumbent Mary Alford in the Aug. 20 primary election.

More: 2024 Voter Guide: Alachua County Commission. See how the candidates stack up

Q&A

Q: What is your approach to increasing affordable housing in the county?

A: Affordable housing is a cornerstone of my vision for Alachua County. Our community deserves homes where families can thrive without the burden of excessive costs. To achieve this, I will champion the development of new affordable housing units and stand firmly for renters’ rights, safeguarding against unjust evictions. I will foster robust partnerships with developers committed to affordability, ensuring that new projects serve our communities well. Additionally, we must support housing assistance programs to provide immediate relief to families in need. By adopting these comprehensive strategies, we can ensure every family in Alachua County has a secure and affordable place to call home.

Q: What makes you the best candidate for the seat?

A: My candidacy is built on a foundation of strength, hope, and unwavering commitment to our community. Unlike my opponent, I have consistently addressed the urgent needs of all Alachua County residents, including those in historically neglected rural areas like Micanopy and Archer. My experience serving on numerous county boards, dedication, and proactive approach to tackling issues such as violent crime, poverty, and lack of education set me apart. Moreover, my vision for sustainable growth, inclusive economic development, and strong academic partnerships positions me to drive meaningful change. I am here not just to serve but to inspire and lead Alachua County toward a brighter future.

Q: What is the biggest issue facing your potential constituents and how do you plan to address it?

A: Violent crime is the most pressing issue facing our community. It threatens the safety and well-being of our families and stifles our potential for growth. To combat this, we must address the root causes: poverty and lack of education. I propose investing in violence prevention programs and forging stronger bonds between law enforcement and community organizations. We also need to uphold mental health and addiction treatment as vital resources. By taking a holistic approach, we can make our streets safer and create an environment where every child can grow up without fear.

Q: What steps, if any, can the county take to improve the local economy?

A: To uplift our local economy, we must attract new industries and investments that align with our values and community needs. By investing in workforce development and job training initiatives, we can equip our residents with the skills needed for well-paying jobs. Collaboration with our esteemed educational institutions will be key in fostering innovation and creating a vibrant, skilled workforce ready for the future. Additionally, promoting policies that advance equity and social justice will ensure that economic benefits are shared by all. Together, we can build a prosperous Alachua County where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Know where to vote

Voters can find their precinct ahead of the August election by visiting the Alachua County Supervisor of Elections’ website .

This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Meet the Alachua County Commission District 1 candidate: A Q&A with Dejeon Cain