Early voting is underway in Santa Rosa County and will continue until Nov. 2, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5.
Below are Shari Sebastiao’s answers to our questionnaire:
SRPG: What are some of the qualities that the new Chief of Police should have?
The next police chief of Milton should embody integrity, transparency, and community engagement. They should have a proven track record of reducing crime while fostering positive relationships with citizens. Strong leadership skills are essential along with a commitment to de-escalation techniques, diversity training and mental health awareness and being able to adapt to unique challenges of a growing city like Milton.
SRPG: Citizens have addressed their concerns with the wastewater effluent carrying PFAS into our drinking water. How will you address these concerns?
Yes, I’m concerned about the elevated levels of PFAS and PFOS. These chemicals are often called forever chemicals. The city takes the health of our citizens very seriously. While there are no binding regulations yet, Milton is and will be proactively be working to reduce these contaminants to protect our citizens.
SRPG: Traffic has been an ongoing issue in Downtown Milton. What should be done about this, if anything, and what would the timeline for that project be?
I support the widening of Highway 90 to help with traffic congestion as long as it’s done while following complete streets as well as preserving the historic district.
SRPG: What makes you the right candidate? Tell us about your platform.
I believe I am the right candidate for this race because I bring a fresh perspective with a strong sense of civic duty. My platform is centered around transparency, accountability and economic development, including protecting our Blackwater River.
SRPG: How can you reaffirm the citizens trust in you as a city council member?
To restore citizens’ trust in Milton’s government, I will be a champion for transparency and open
communication, I will continue to push for clear guidelines on what constitutes an open record and ensure that all government dealings are easily accessible to the public.
