Gainesville native Bob Norton has announced his intent to run for Gainesville City Council Ward 1 to fill the seat held by Danny Dunagan, who recently stepped down citing health considerations. The non-partisan special election will be held next May.
Norton said his desire to serve has been bolstered by a strong tradition of visionary public servants who have helped shape Gainesville into what it is today.
“I want to thank Danny for his service to our city since 2006, including two terms as
mayor,” Norton said. “Danny was the visionary for much of the growth and development
that Gainesville has seen over the last 20 years, especially downtown and into
midtown.”
Norton said that if elected, his priorities would be centered around smart growth and the
infrastructure needed to support it.
“We’ve seen a lot of positive growth over the past decade, but with it comes added
strain on things like roads, bridges, water resources, underground infrastructure, and
more,” he said. “All of these things need our attention, both because of past growth and
to assist with future development within the city.”
Norton added, “While we must continue to focus on affordable housing, we cannot
solely rely on multifamily construction. It’s essential to find ways to reduce government
fees and restrictions that constrict single-family construction, and the hope of home
ownership. The Council needs to find a balance between impact fees, and the desire to
attract our young families back to Gainesville.”
Norton is Executive Chairman of Norton Agency Insurance,