Will performing as a commissioner be Robert McCann's next talent?

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Robert McCann is a doctor, lawyer, pilot and scuba diver, too.

He also holds a master's degree in business administration. 

Now, McCann wants to add one more item to his five-page resume — Manatee County commissioner.

McCann is running against incumbent Ray Turner for the District 5 seat in the Aug. 20 Republican primary. Whoever wins the primary will face off with Joseph Di Bartolomeo, who has no party affiliation, in the general election on Nov. 5. 

While Turner is the incumbent, McCann is quick to point out that no one voted for Turner. He was appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis after Vanessa Baugh retired from her District 5 seat. 

McCann told the Lakewood Ranch Republican Club July 10 that he's running for commissioner to represent the people, while he said Turner is running to represent the developers. Turner declined to attend the debate. 

McCann, who mostly served as an emergency room physician, sees 36 years of listening to his patients as an asset to both the board and citizens. He said he also spent four years in the Navy learning to take orders. 

His parents gave their consent for him to enlist at 17 years old. McCann said the GI Bill was the only way he could’ve ever gone to college. 

“My father was a steel mill worker. My mother was a homemaker,” he said. “We had four boys in the family.”

McCann grew up in Chicago. He received his undergraduate degree at Northern Illinois University and his medical degree from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Missouri.

In his fourth year of medical school, he took up flying for the challenge of it.

“It was complex,” McCann said. “It was something where you were doing something, and at the same time, you were leaving the Earth for a while.” 

He became a doctor in 1988, and toward the end of the 1990s, McCann already felt like a “dinosaur.” The medical industry had changed from doctor-patient relationships on a fee-for-service basis to managed care where the doctor's role became more like one of middle management. 

Photo by Lesley Dwyer

“Everything became a contract,” McCann said. “I wanted to learn more about the system, so I went to law school. I worked full-time ER while I was in law school.” 

McCann earned his law degree from the Florida Coastal School of Law in Jacksonville in 1997. He said 81-degree weather on his first Christmas Eve in Jacksonville convinced him to make Florida his home. 

While he learned to scuba dive in a swimming pool in Las Vegas, McCann’s hobby flourished in Florida. The star student didn’t stop advancing until he was a certified rescue diver. 

"There are no limits except the ones you set for yourself," McCann said. 

He and his wife Rosemarie McCann have lived in the River Club for 18 years. As a deer and its fawn ran behind his house, he started talking about how he used to visit his aunt in North Miami from the time he was 12 years old. 

“Did you see the flooding they just had?” he asked. “They have no wetlands down there to talk about. It’s a concrete jungle, and the flooding they got, there’s nowhere for the water to go. That’s what we’ve got to avoid here (in Manatee County).” 

McCann, who is retired, used to have a lot more deer in his yard — coyotes, too. In his opinion, not only are the animals losing vital resources due to Manatee County's development, but residents are, too. 

“If you’re going to build a neighborhood, you have to have the essential infrastructure,” McCann said. “We have such a shortage of nurses and doctors in this area.”

He said his analytical nature could benefit the current board because, outside of Commissioner George Kruse, board members talk about what they’re going to do, but not about how they’ll fund it.

“They just put a lot of things on the deferred list, which means they may never get done because they don’t have the money,” McCann said. “If they don’t have the money to fix the potholes and light the streets, why are they still building?” 

Age: 66 

Current occupation: Retired physician, lawyer, business executive, educator 

Resident of Manatee County: 18 years 

What are the county's three top priorities/issues, and how should the Commission address them? 

1. Individual Rights — PEOPLE FIRST! The Commission needs to legislate policy to protect the health, welfare and safety; improve the quality of life of Manatee County residents; stop putting building and zoning interests above citizens’ needs; and stop the urban sprawl. 
2. Prioritize building infrastructure. Public infrastructure includes roads, sidewalks, parks, schools, recreational facilities, water and sewerage systems, among other essential amenities, such as healthcare. Recreation is important for our multigenerational families. We need to finish the pickleball courts; the facilities at Premier Park (aquatic center, planned event lawn and pavilion, basketball court, skate park, volleyball courts, playgrounds or dog park. etc.) and prioritize upgrades for aging parks in our community rather than just making promises and explaining delays as these priorities are leftovers from 2021. 
3. Protect our natural resources, including water, wetlands, agriculture, wildlife habitats, Florida’s natural beauty and heritage. These goals can be accomplished by co-creating with the citizens rather than favoring the special interests. 

Why are you running for office? 

I am grateful for the opportunity to be considered for county commissioner. My priorities and goals align with the voters in Manatee County, allowing me to be a co-creator of positive change. Together we will address overdevelopment, traffic, environmental degradation, animal habitats, health care, cooperation and communication. Lakewood Ranch is appealing with its gorgeous surroundings, top- notch schools and abundant recreational possibilities. Planning strategically, working together and involving the community are necessary to address the priorities mentioned above. To achieve successful results for Manatee County, the commission should collaborate and co-create closely with its stakeholders, after gaining insight from citizens and experts on advisory boards. Engaging residents in the planning process guarantees that their demands are considered and promotes a sense of ownership. This race is not about me, it’s about working with the people of Manatee County to enhance their quality of life, peaceful enjoyment of their homes and giving them a voice in their community by bringing back call-ins; allowing comments on the County’s Facebook page; ending the propaganda machine; creating a dialogue instead of a monologue; and extending the three-minute time limit so that citizens run the government. In All Things Lakewood Ranch “Other residents voiced complaints during the meeting but didn't have any opportunity to engage with Commissioners. They had three minutes to cover their topic, and then commissioners (mostly Rahn) ran through their issues in rapid-fire succession, mostly indicating their comments would be considered at a later date.”— Jay Heater, East County Observer. This is the typical interaction with the current County Commission. I disagree with the course the current local government officeholders are adopting. I want to make a difference and think I can perform better. The people, not the wealthy and well-connected, are the source of the government's power and authority. 

What makes you more qualified than your opponents for this office? 

I am not under the hold of developers or special interests, and I am not receiving any funding from PACs, groups or special interests that carry out operations that call for approval from the County Commission. I moved to Florida in 1996 and have spent the last 18 years living full-time as a permanent resident in Manatee County. I am the only candidate in the campaign who is a veteran. I am a dedicated public servant, physician, lawyer, business executive, educator and member of the Federalist Society and the Republican National Lawyers Association. As a National Disaster Life Support Instructor, I am in high demand throughout hurricane season. Rather than caving in to the demands of developers and special interests, as a commissioner I will collaborate and co-create with the public to bring about positive changes in the county and participate in their decision-making processes that will fulfill the commission’s mission statement making Manatee County a premier place in which to live and work and play. I'll use listening, leadership, learning and teamwork to achieve these goals. I have limited contact with both my opponents, but research shows the following: In the primary election in August, the incumbent is a placeholder, appointed by the governor’s staff to fill the end of a term, not an elected official. His voting history and relationships with Wendy White and most of the current commission’s outside political consultant, Anthony Pedicini, demonstrate his close ties to the builders. He was the secretary of the Building Industry Association (BIA), a Realtor, owner of a real estate agency and a member of the Manatee Planning Commission. It was through the builders’ appeal and a call from Bill Galvano to the governor’s office that he was chosen interim commissioner. His voting record shows that he aided in gutting the wetlands protection and voted to give more than $834,000 to the newly appointed placeholder, a prior county commissioner, Supervisor of Elections James Satcher, without adequate explanation of the need and with only four months remaining in the fiscal year. His voting record is misaligned with the constituents of Manatee County. 

Affordable housing — what can the Manatee County Commission do to increase the supply of workforce housing? 

Manatee’s inventory of workforce housing can be expanded by renovating or upgrading existing housing units or by developing new housing. Rehab and redevelopment of abandoned and underutilized sites present substantial prospects. Older housing stock is preserved and improved through redevelopment and rehabilitation, which also offers the benefit of effectively utilizing existing infrastructure to save long- term public service delivery costs. In healthy housing markets, communities can use two primary local incentives to support the creation or preservation of affordable workforce housing: direct financial assistance programs (such as grants, loans and tax breaks) and indirect financial assistance programs (such as zoning incentives). Innovative public-private partnerships are often essential to the success of projects. 

If elected, you likely are going to be asked many times to allow changes to the county zoning code for certain projects. What is your philosophy toward zoning? 

Zoning regulations that encourage higher-density housing near commercial and transit hubs can reduce urban sprawl. Equitable resources and amenity distribution should be taken into account when making zoning decisions. We must safeguard historical sites, green spaces and natural resources while promoting economic progress. I actively support community involvement in zoning decisions. Town hall gatherings, open communication and public participation are critical. Environmental effects should be taken into account when zoning. We need to take precautions against harm coming to wildlife habitats, water resources and air quality. Zoning regulations are shaped in part by hearing the hopes and worries of residents. Zoning impacts everything from traffic patterns to the availability of homes. In my capacity as a county commissioner, I would support deliberate zoning that advances the long-term goals of the neighborhood. Lastly, zoning should never be completed before the land's true intended use is identified. In Manatee County, mixed-use zoning seems “built at the discretion of builders” and is overused. 

What is your position on the Future Development Area Boundary — keep it; abide by it; eliminate it? Why? 

In Manatee County, the FDAB is essential to maintaining a balance between development and preservation. Achieving a balance between development and preserving the area’s distinctive identity is crucial. Since its founding in 1989, the FDAB has undergone modifications. Its present placement decided upon in 2006 is to prevent urban sprawl and preserve farmland as the principal land use east of the line until 2040. The Developers should abide by it. The Future Development Area Boundary (FDAB) is a significant concept in urban planning. It delineates the limits beyond which urban development is restricted, aiming to preserve rural and agricultural land and prevent urban sprawl, which is crucial in maintaining water quality, the rural character of the area and preventing increased traffic.

The importance of water quality monitoring increases as Lakewood Ranch grows. It is crucial to provide appropriate stormwater management and reduce pollution. Roads, buildings, and other impermeable surfaces can increase local temperatures, which exacerbates the urban heat island effect. Natural vegetation and the ecosystem may be lost and a rise in air pollution will result as land is being cleared for building. Expanding utilities (water, sewage, electricity) to new homes will exceed existing infrastructure. The FDAB specifies the easternmost point to which Manatee County offers sewer and water services. 

Growth — What is your philosophy on how population growth should be addressed in Manatee County? 

Since the pandemic homebuying boom, the forecasts used to measure growth patterns have decreased, necessitating a regular reevaluation of the data. More homes are being offered for sale; asking prices are being lowered by sellers; and the average time to sell a home is rising on Florida's West Coast faster than any other region in the country. Florida is no longer viewed by out-of-town homebuyers as a place to find incredible deals. Additionally, complicating and sometimes even postponing home purchases is Florida's insurance crisis. The number of homes available in the market is already higher than the demand. Manatee County’s population expansion calls for a multifaceted strategy that takes the environment, society and economy into account. Maintaining the county’s distinctive character while attaining sensible growth requires cooperation between local enterprises, government and citizens. This includes maintaining green spaces, encouraging purposeful developments and building walkable neighborhoods. Green spaces, parks and waterfront areas contribute to residents’ quality of life. Zoning laws can lessen urban sprawl by promoting higher-density housing close to commercial and transit hubs.

Protecting the environment while balancing expansion is crucial. Quality of life indicators, such as access to healthcare, education and cultural amenities should be prioritized. Economic growth, while important, should not come at the expense of residents’ well-being. Conservation initiatives should be used to protect Manatee County's natural beauty. 

Roads/Transportation — What should the County Commission’s strategy be to address the county’s increased road needs? 

The County Commission should prioritize road projects based on traffic volume, safety concerns and economic impact while shaping infrastructure investment. Underfunding of roads typically results in neglected upkeep and subpar repairs. Inadequate funding has an impact on road quality overall, efficiency, and safety. Increasing traffic volume puts a burden on the current road networks, leading to more wear and tear, delays and congestion. To maximize traffic flow, smart traffic lights employ sensors and algorithms. Modifying signal timings in response to current traffic conditions will shorten travel times and ease congestion. Driving at night is made safer with streetlights, reflectors, and high-visibility markings. Traffic has eased somewhat with the snowbirds heading north, and now is a good time to stop overbuilding houses and implement road construction and repair. The commission could also work to develop forms of alternate transportation. Using these alternate modes of transportation improves everyone’s quality of life and the environment in addition to relieving traffic congestion. Walking and biking, sharing rides, public transit and telecommuting are some examples. Embracing public transportation helps ease traffic jams and encourage more effective countywide movement. 

What is your position on impact fees? 

The commission should ensure that developers pay their fair share.

The lack of infrastructure, parks and schools is a direct reflection of this shortfall of the developer’s lack of payment. An impact fee is often assessed by Manatee County to a property developer as a one-time payment. The purpose of this fee is to offset some of the costs associated with the increased demand on public infrastructure caused by new buildings. Real estate expansions often result in an influx of new residents, which can strain the community's existing infrastructure and services. Impact fees are meant to provide a counterbalance to the higher maintenance costs that come with the establishment of these services instead of taxes. Unfortunately, because developers did not pay their fair share by previously not paying in full at the time they built new neighborhoods, Manatee County citizens now have to pay higher taxes. In November 2023, the commission identified that based on the old study from 2015, the county was only collecting 40 cents on the dollar for current growth costs. In February 2024, commissioners voted to increase impact fees by 50% over the next four years using the 2023 study as prescribed by law. 

What is your position on land acquisition for conservation and preservation? 

Purchasing land is a costly endeavor, even if it is now required for conservation and preservation to safeguard our water supply and the general public's health and safety. The responsible use and preservation of the natural environment, which the commission voted against despite overwhelming public resistance, now creates the necessity for costly land acquisition and technology. Although it offers an alternative, this mitigation falls short compared to the responsible use and preservation of the natural environment. Wetlands recharge our drinking water supply; protect our property from flooding; filter pollutants from stormwater; and offer habitat for important species that should have been maintained.

Natural water quality improvement, flood protection, shoreline erosion control, opportunities for recreation and aesthetic appreciation and natural products for our use are free. 

What grade would you give the County Commission on managing the county’s tax dollars? 

D-. The county commissioners have done some good things recently now that it is an election year. However, they cut off communication, took away call-ins, stopped Facebook commentary and did not return emails. Most have limited Town Halls or communications with their constituents. In all research, the County Commission is called the “bought and paid-for government.” Further, “Officials [are] doing all they can to distract attention from their records” shows their votes contrary to what was asked by the public, yet in lockstep with the developers. 

What needs to be changed in the county fiscal management? 

Enhance transparency in budgeting and financial reporting. Continuously evaluate spending to identify cost-saving opportunities. Develop robust long-term financial plans to address infrastructure needs and growth. Involve residents in budget discussions and decision-making processes. The self-described “fiscal conservatives, just poured over $864,000 into the SOE office “to ensure election integrity (last word, emphasis added) with only two months left before a primary to purchase new software. The timing does not allow for testing in Manatee County and the learning curve for staff will be inadequate. Will the vendor run this election? You decide. There needs to be more transparency, citizen input, expert advisory board opinions, and facts presented before just granting money as has been done in the past. 

Can you identify any area where you think the county’s spending should be cut or any area where more needs to be spent?

More money should be spent on parks, recreational facilities and infrastructure repair. Less should be spent on bloating the government with unnecessary or unqualified employees funding propaganda machines and mitigating damages caused by the commissioners. 

What is your position on the county’s current millage rate — is it satisfactory? Too high? Too low? 

The millage rate has decreased over the past two years. Reducing .20 mills put the new millage rate at 6.3326 for 2023. This change means the county collected less taxes if the reduction was enacted. Based on the population growth due to the pandemic, the downturn since the pandemic ended, inflation and other factors, I have insufficient information to answer the question. The budgetary process is currently in progress. 

How would you describe your philosophy on the role of government and taxation? 

According to Manatee County’s official website, “Manatee County government's mission is to provide an efficient, effective, responsive government that is always mindful of our sensitive natural environment while achieving the commission’s vision for the county: a premier place in which to live and work and play.” My philosophy is less government interference — people first! Decision-making should be as local as possible, even in a neighborhood, and the free market should control all financial decisions. Taxes should only be used to maintain existing infrastructure and cover essential services and programs, keeping living costs in Manatee affordable. Taking that mission statement as true, the commission needs to: 

• Legislate policy to protect the health, welfare and safety, improve the quality of life of Manatee County residents, stop putting building and zoning interests above citizens’ needs and stop the urban sprawl. 
• Prioritize building infrastructure. Public infrastructure includes roads, sidewalks, parks, schools, recreational facilities, water and sewerage systems, among other essential amenities.

Recreation is important for our multigenerational families, and we need to finish the pickleball courts, the facilities at Premier Park (aquatic center, planned event lawn (pavilion), basketball court, skate park, volleyball courts, playgrounds, or dog park. etc.) and prioritize upgrades for aging parks in our community rather than just making promises and explaining delays as these priorities are leftovers from 2021. Protect our natural resources including wetlands, agriculture, wildlife habitats, and Florida’s natural beauty and heritage.