The Manatee County Property Appraiser race will feature incumbent Charlie Hackney and challenger Darin C. George. Both candidates are Republican, but because a write-in candidate withdrew from the race, it will be an open primary that will appear on all-voters’ August ballot.
Charles Hackney had 15 years of private-sector experience as a property appraiser when he was first elected Manatee County Property Appraiser in 1992. Since then, he has built a reputation for running a highly effective, cost-efficient operation that has served this county well.
Hackney is not just a professional but also a community leader. As an Air Force veteran and Florida native, he has a long record of community service. He has served on the Manatee Community College Board of Trustees and as a Director on the Manatee Community College Foundation Board. His involvement as a former president and board member of the Kiwanis Club of Bradenton and a member of the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society further reflects his commitment to the community. His litany of professional certifications/recognitions underlines his qualifications. He has been endorsed by such figures as Sheriff Rick Wells and State Attorney Ed Brodsky.
Little is known about Mr. George, as he has not attempted to campaign in any traditional fashion. George initially filed to run for the District 1 Manatee County Commission seat that James Satcher vacated before withdrawing to run for this office. His financial support and endorsements seem to revolve around affiliations with The Source Church, including an entertaining nod from Dog the Bounty Hunter on his campaign Facebook page. He has also been endorsed by Manatee County Commissioner Jason Beardon, who not only fails to carry weight, in our opinion, but instead gives further pause.
This race is very similar to the Supervisor of Elections competition, in which one highly qualified professional with a record of excellence in the field is up against an opponent with no relevant experience for the office. The office of property appraiser is not one that should be politicized, and Mr. Hackney has done an excellent job of maintaining a non-partisan office. This commitment to non-partisanship should reassure voters of his dedication to serving the community, regardless of political affiliations.
