Key Largo Fire Rescue & EMS Board Candidates

Kenny Edge and Michael Jenkins are running for Seat 3, and Daniel Powers and Ronald Spodnik are running for Seat 5. Each candidate provided a candidate statement introducing themselves, which appears below their picture.

SEAT 3: Kenny Edge

I’ve lived in this community 48 years. Honorably discharged from the U.S. Army. Retired from Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority after 32 years. Over 20 years in management. I have been a volunteer with Key Largo EMS for 28 years as an EMT, and driver. I also was a scuba instructor with Key Largo Fire. I have served on both boards, as a treasurer, and vice president. I’m currently vice president with Key Largo EMS. It would be a privilege and honor to serve on the district fire and medical board. On day one, if elected. I would continue to help provide the best 911 service, while being fiscally responsible.

SEAT 3: Michael Jenkins

I have lived in the Keys for 34 years, 20 in Key Largo. I was a volunteer firefighter for Islamorada and Key Largo for over 27 years. I have held the positions of engineer, lieutenant, captain, assistant chief and deputy chief. I also was a board director and president for Key Largo. I have worked for Florida Keys Electric Co-op for 19 years. I have raised one son and two daughters. I was very involved in school and after-school activities, sports and scouting. I am ready and able to continue serving my community on the Fire Board. I have many years of experience in the fire service to contribute and would like to help however I can. I support both the volunteers and paid employees of the departments. 

SEAT 5: Dan Powers

I am running for re-election for the Key Largo Fire and Emergency Board Seat 5. I have worked in fire rescue for over 30 years as a volunteer for Key Largo Ambulance and a firefighter/paramedic for Monroe County Fire Rescue having retired six years ago. I have served on this board for the past four years and I feel that I have been an asset due to my knowledge of both fire and EMS services. With your support, I hope to continue to provide services to the community and its taxpayers.

SEAT 5: Ronald Spodnik

I’m retired from the police department in New York. I worked in many divisions, including Emergency Services (first responder medical help). I worked closely with fire and ambulance services. I also worked in the communications division, and drew up specs for new police vehicles and radio systems. I was there for 911 and saw firsthand some of the horrors. I worked in the Keys for coral medical as a home medical tech, then at Divers Direct and now I’m completely retired. My goal is to assist in making the fire EMS services better with my experience from New York and keeping it cost effective for the taxpayers.