During today’s Santa Rosa County Commission meeting, East Milton resident Marshall Kenney confronted District 2 Commissioner Kerry Smith after catching the incumbent stealing signage from his private property on Ward Basin Road.
East Milton residents Marshall & Michele Kenney had FireKerry.com signs stolen from their home multiple times before catching incumbent District 2 Commissioner Kerry Smith red handed, taking their signage. In total, the Kenneys say 6 signs were stolen from their private property, including those Smith was caught taking. Subsequently, replacement signage is now nailed up high to prevent further theft.
According to a local law enforcement source, Smith is not allowed to steal signage from private property. The value of each sign if roughly $9 each.
During today’s meeting, Kenney, who said he served 30 years in the Armed Forces, told the board that after replacing the sigange multiple times, he was hiding in the bushes when Kerry, who lives nearby, “slammed on brakes” and took the signage. Kenney said he then stepped into view and questioned Smith, who reportedly said the signage was illegally placed in the right of way. Kenney said Smith also “squealed” his tires.
Photos courtesy Marshall Kenney
Marshall today told the board he visited the county GIS and other departments, confirming the signage was placed on their private property – not in the public right of way.
Marshall contacted Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office after catching the elected official taking his signage, filing an incident report for petit theft and trespassing; however, it is not yet known whether or not Smith will face any charges.
Additionally, local watchdog Jerry Couey also spoke up during today’s meeting, pointing out that Smith has many signs in the public right of way. Couey made a complaint with Santa Rosa County Code Enforcement back in June and was reportedly told the candidate would be moving a large sign which had been erected in the publich right of way; but, as of this past weekend, Smith’s signage was still in the ROW.
Kenney described it as a “Rules for Thee but not for me” matter. He said they will seek a restraining order against the elected official to keep him off their property.
Smith refused to comment on the issue during the meeting.
Smith is seeking re-election to the seat, which currently pays around $94,046 per year. The primary for that race takes place Tuesday, August 18.
