Candidate Profile: Kathryn Fleming
March 16, 2025
NorthEscambia.com submitted a questionnaire to each of the three candidates seeking a on the Century Town Council in Tuesday’s special election. Responses have not been edited.
Century Town Council, Seat 4 Candidate: Kathryn Fleming
BACKGROUND
- Office manager
- mental health case manager
- Served on Charter Review Committee. Currently assisting with planning the annual Run to the Wall South, an escorted motorcycle ride through Pensacola to the Veteran’s Memorial Park on Memorial weekend. Assisting with maintenance/ beautification of Century memorial wall at Nadine McCaw Park.
- BA Sociology from University Arizona Global Campus
- Applied for Century Council Seat 4, but the council vote was split so neither candidate was selected.
QUESTIONS
- When the opportunity to serve on the Charter Review Committee presented itself, I felt proud to be able to offer my two cents on how the town could improve upon itself. When nothing came from all the hard work that was put into the Charter’s final draft, it was a little disheartening. There needs to be change. There needs to be fresh ideas. Serving on the Council will allow me to be directly involved in those changes and ideas that will allow Century to improve and thrive for another century.
- 1. Complying with State laws regarding reports, audits, etc. 2. Fiscal responsibility. 3. Updating the Charter, employee manuals. These were all issues the Grand Jury pointed out in early 2019.
- Century needs a thorough audit to figure out where the money is going; a realistic budget; and purge anything that is costing the town more money than it brings in. Selling off or actively renting out any buildings the town owns could help bring in some immediate funds. Advertise the industrial park to bring in more industry/ businesses. Fine the property owners of abandoned blighted buildings and tear them down to allow new construction to come in. Though likely unpopular, annex surrounding areas to increase the tax base.
- I do support Home Rule. This allows Century to do what’s needed and expected, for its residents without county or state interference. However, many question if Century is currently able to govern itself and provide for its residents. I think Century needs to start fresh with an updated Charter, at the very least. This will provide the foundation upon which to rebuild the town.
- “The Sunshine Law… establish a basic right of access to most meetings of boards, commissions, and other governing bodies of state and local governmental agencies or authorities” – myfloridalegal.com. I think they are transparent regarding meeting schedules, posting the agenda items online, and offering call-in access to remotely attend a council meeting.
- Financial issues are the result of not knowing where the money is going, and having more money going out than coming in. Once that is figured out and corrected, it will be easier to make and keep a budget. The biggest financial issue right now is that there are some very expensive repairs/ replacements that our infrastructure needs and because the town is not responsible with its funds, some grant money for those repairs was pulled back.
- In doing some research about existing town ordinances, nothing stuck out as needing to be added or eliminated at this time.
- The Charter Review Committee recommended having a town manager, who would bridge the gaps between the mayor, council, and department heads. I think Century should look locally first, then move further out if there is no one local who is qualified.
- Century needs to complete and submit whatever reports the county or state requires, in a timely manner, and with accuracy. Even though Century is its own governing body, the county and state are big brother and have to power to dissolve Century if the town cannot follow the rules. It is also important that the town council and mayor make themselves known at county commissioner meetings, to represent the needs of Century and its residents.
- Century does not actively advertise the industrial park, or the numerous empty buildings that could be rehabbed for businesses. Our location makes Century a good choice, with its proximity to I65, Pensacola, and numerous factories in Florida and Alabama. However, I’ve heard about businesses being turned away for various reasons (e.g. West Florida Gin, Project Fusion) and that seems to be self-sabotage. If the town is waiting for Amazon to inquire about our area and offer to employ hundreds of people, that probably won’t happen. Century is no longer a mill town, but a highway town, and that needs to be embraced and expanded upon.
- The current businesses in Century seem to thrive, since there isn’t much competition. When AlgaPlast Corp requested permission to grow and expand, I was glad that Council allowed them to take those next steps.
- Council-strong mayor was the recommendation of the Charter Review Committee in 2022. Currently the council holds all the power, and the mayor is unable to do anything without council approval. This caused issues in the past with council members blocking suggestions made by the mayor, which led to nothing being accomplished. The mayor needs to be able to run the town, with oversight from the council; not ruled by council and the mayor is merely a figure head.
- The town needs to invest in remote access meters to ensure accuracy and speed up the meter reading process. Having a bill come out a week before it’s due, then having the next bill added to it the following month is a financial strain on many residents. Offering budget billing could minimize the financial hit from peak usage. Also offering online bill pay would be convenient for residents. The bills can be confusing to understand, and maybe the format needs to be overhauled.
- This time of year I can hear the ball players at Anthony Pleasant Park, the parents cheering, the announcer calling out plays, and it is wonderful. The multiple parks with playgrounds and ball fields allow the youth to be active. As far as education, that is handled at the county level. I am not aware of anything the town does regarding education.
- The foundation of government needs to be established first. The budget needs to be balanced and existing infrastructure issues addressed (the bridges, wells, pumps and lift stations, road maintenance, etc.) That is the bones of the town that need to be in place before we can encourage businesses to come in, people to move in, and passer-bys to stop in.
Candidate Profile: Sparkie Harrison
March 16, 2025
NorthEscambia.com submitted a questionnaire to each of the three candidates seeking a on the Century Town Council in Tuesday’s special election. Responses have not been edited.
Century Town Council, Seat 4 Candidate: Sparkie Harrison
BACKGROUND
- Director of PSC Century Center
- Career Navigator for Adult Education PSC, Youth Advocate for YAP, Worked in Programs for the city of Gulf Shores, Technician for Theatre at multiply Theatres
- Member (representing PSC) of the Century Chamber, Vice President of The Hope Garden board, Volunteer with Extra Mile Club Str8 Up, Member of ACE (Adult and Community Education), Member of COABE (Coalition on Adult Basic Education), Member of the CommUNITY Resource Council – Century area, Volunteer with Lumberjack Festival at the Milton Campus, Volunteered during Family Literacy Week, Past Board Member for South Baldwin Community Theatre, Past Member and/ also Team Leader at Share the Beach – Alabama’s sea turtle conservation program
- Bachelor of Science Tennessee Wesleyan College
- None
QUESTIONS
- I have developed a deep appreciation for the potential and spirit of our community. I believe that I can bring a fresh perspective, new ideas, and a strong commitment to problem-solving in the best interests of our town. I believe in its future and see countless opportunities for growth and improvement. I am passionate about contributing to the positive change I know our town is capable of achieving. I am driven by the desire to help others and enhance the quality of life for all who call Century home.
- Listening to the citizens of Century, each other, and to the Mayor. Working with the Community, the Council is elected by the citizens, don’t talk at them, talk to them – take the time. Budget, where does the money go, how do we lose money/grants. How do we secure the grants and not lose them?
- Without actually looking and doing the research, I cannot answer that question with a definite answer at this time
- I do
- I do. Government in the Sunshine Act— requires that meetings of certain federal agencies be open to public observation, except for portions of the meetings that are covered by any of The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) allows the public access to federal agency records, but it also contains other exemptions that permit agencies to withhold certain information, such as classified national security matters, confidential financial information, and law enforcement record. I think Century’s is transparent, if you know where to look. Perhaps making it easier to find the information.
- I think this ties into the question before about “How Should Century solve financial challenges”. Does the Council get a running spreadsheet of the budget? How often does the budget get reviewed, not just the “Bills List ” every 2 weeks. I think this requires a deep look into the financials of the town. Keeping grants, maintaining grants, knowing where the money goes.
- Personally one or two, but would really like to know the purpose of them and how would it change things.
- I think so. Most town administrators have a degree in public administration, political science, or business. I think it should be a local employee.
- Ensure each level of government (town, county, state) has designated individuals as points of contact for communication and collaboration. Work together on shared issues and goal. Build relationships and foster trust.
- Create a beautification program with local businesses and community groups to improve storefronts and streetscapes. Seek grants and public-private partnerships for infrastructure improvement. Build a strong economic base by fostering a supportive environment for local businesses and startups.
- Provide tax incentives and resources to encourage new businesses to set up in Century. Launch a local business incubator to help entrepreneurs grow and thrive. Organize networking events and workshops, alongside the Chamber, to connect local businesses with one another and with customers.
- To be honest with you, I haven’t read all of the Charter and Code of Ordinances. I like a Hybrid/Standard Mayor-Council- Balance power between the mayor and council. The mayor imitating, but council having significant input.
- With a new billing clerk, and hopefully better training on the new software and meters, utilities will be correct or be corrected soon.
- In the almost 3 years of attending council meeting, the one thing that surprises me is the lack of follow through for after school and education wants in the town. I am hopeful that Ms. Deterville’s presences next to Metro Transit will take off soon. I believe she has plans that may help with this. I believe PSC Century Center will have a camp again this summer. We need to help programs that want to come to Century. Encourage people to participate.
- Short-Term Impact: Increased community engagement and pride. Growth in local business activity and employment opportunities. Improved public safety and the overall quality of life for residents. Long-Term Impact: Century becomes a top choice for relocation, bringing new families and professionals. Local businesses thrive, creating jobs and fostering economic growth. A stronger sense of community identity, recognized for its positive contributions and progress in local and regional media.
Candidate Profile: John Bass
March 16, 2025
NorthEscambia.com submitted a questionnaire to each of the three candidates seeking a on the Century Town Council in Tuesday’s special election. Responses have not been edited.
Century Town Council, Seat 4 Candidate: John Bass
BACKGROUND
Current occupation
- Retired
Previous occupations:
- Correctional Officer
Civic, church and other community involvement?
- Christian Faith /Veteran
Education:
- Associate—Electronic Engineering
Previous offices held, previously sought
- Classification Officer
QUESTIONS
Why are you running for Century Town Council?
- I am a life long citizen of Century that has appreciated and enjoyed the work of many others before me. Now I feel it’s my responsibility to help lead the way for future generations of Century residents.
What are the three most important issues facing the Century Town Council?
- 1. Working together as a unit for the betterment of the citizens. 2. Established goals and an action plans to complete those goals for the betterment of the town. 3. Seeking funding infrastructure, recreation and educational programs.
How should Century solve financial challenges?
- Self audit will show where changes need to be made and assistance is needed.
Do you support Home Rule?
- Yes. My understanding of home rule is that each town should have some form of government be ruled by its members.
Do you support the provisions of the Sunshine Law? Should Century’s government become more transparent; and, if so, how?
- Yes. Century government is transparent through open meetings and records requests.
How can the Town of Century solve current town government financial issues? What do you see as the biggest financial issue facing Century?
- Self/independent audit. Town long term infrastructure.
Are there any ordinances/regulations in Century you would like to see added? Or eliminated?
- No not individually all ordinances/regulations changes should be made collectively.
Should Century have a town administrator? Should that be a local employee, or perhaps an out-of-town consultant?
- Yes. The Administrator a qualified individual working for the best interest of the town.
How can Century better work with the county and state?
- Establish relationships through communication.
How does Century attract additional businesses and/or jobs?
- Work with the chamber of commerce and the citizens to establish a marketing strategy
How does Century work to support/grow additional businesses?
- Support growth through educational and training programs
What changes, if any, should be made to the Town Charter? What form of government should Century have ( council-weak mayor, council-strong mayor, commission or council-manager are the typical choices, per the FL League of Cities)?
- Full time mayor /strong council-weak mayor
How does the town improve utility (water, sewer, gas) billing issues and ensure bills are correct going forward?
- Gather information through self auditing, research other methods, establish a plan, implement plan and make changes as necessary.
How does the town work to improve education and activities for children and youth?
- Establish a working relationship with the schools administrators and recreational program managers
Summarize your term of office plan/goals for Century…
- Help create programs to improve the quality of life in Century. Help establish a program to honor current and past citizens exemplary service to show outsiders how great we are and always have been.
Unplug day
March 7, 2025
Man Convicted Fatally Shooting Cantonment Man In Lounge Parking Lot Faces Up To 30 Years
March 5, 2025
A man faces up to 30 years when he is sentenced this week for the fatal shooting a Cantonment man in the summer of 2023 at a Pensacola lounge.
Michael Andrew Rodriguez, now 40, was originally charged with second degree murder but was convicted by an Escambia County jury of a lesser offense of manslaughter.
Rodriguez could be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison on Wednesday by Judge John Simon on the lessor manslaughter conviction. The maximum penalty for the original second-degree murder charge was life in prison.
He shot victim Damon Caldwell in the neck at Sam’s Lounge on Old Corry Field Road on July 21, 2023. Video surveillance showed a confrontation between Rodriguez and Caldwell outside the lounge before Rodriguez draws a firm and shoots Caldwell, who falls to the ground. Rodriguez then backs away, firing multiple additional shots toward the crowd near Caldwell. Escambia County Sheriff’s Office deputies noted in their report that Caldwell never presented a firearm or any other weapon and did not utilize any other form of deadly force against Rodriguez.
Rodriguez later contacted law enforcement and told deputies that he planned to turn himself in, but he failed to do so. The ECSO tracked Rodriguez him and arrested him, as he told them he “knew he messed up”.
An Escambia County woman is awaiting trial and an accessory after the fact for allegedly helping Rodriguez, her boyfriend, after the shooting. According to investigators, Deomi Polyzos drove to the lounge and picked Rodriquez up after the murder before making stops” presumably to dispose of evidence/the firearm utilized”, an arrest report states.
Ronald Bryant Rigby
February 22, 2025
Mr. Ronald Bryant Rigby, age 77, passed away peacefully at his home in McDavid, Florida, on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. Originally from Atmore, Alabama, raised in Oak Grove, Florida, he spent most of his life in Bratt and Byrneville, Florida. Ronald was a dedicated member of the Bratt Assembly of God Church, where he found joy and community.
He enjoyed many activities, including hunting and fishing, and worked for the Escambia County Road Department for 25 years. He also spent 12 years farming, which he cherished deeply. Beyond work and church, Ronald had a passion for hands-on projects in his shop and was often found tinkering with various projects. He loved watching westerns and Grit TV, taking him back to simpler times. He and his wife took a memorable trip across the country, traveling 6,000 miles to explore different places together. Ronald truly enjoyed spending time with family, gardening, and canning vegetables, making wonderful memories that will be cherished for years to come.
He is preceded is death by his parents, Jesse David “JD” (Erma Smith) Rigby.
Mr. Rigby is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mrs. Suzanne M Rigby of Backwoods of Byrneville, Florida; two sons, Stephen Bryant (Sam) Rigby of Backwoods of Byrneville, Florida and Adam (April) Rigby of Keego, Alabama; brother, Jesse Rigby of Pensacola, Florida; sister, Jackie (Billy) Darby of Oak Grove, Florida; four grandchildren, Grady (Talita) Rigby, Cooper Rigby, Layla Kate Rigby, and Clark Rigby; one great-grandchild, Elaina Rigby; and a special cousin Judy.
Funeral service will be held Sunday, February 23, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Homes, LLC. with Reverend Mel Coon and Reverend Marcus Wallace officiating.
A private burial will follow at a later date.
Visitation will be held Sunday, February 23, 2025 from 1:00 PM until service time at 2:00 PM at Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Homes, LLC.
Pallbearers will be Ricky Hardy, David Kerns, Joey Killam, Brad Shaw, Reggie Odom, and Danny Webb
Honorary pallbearer will be Leslie Barnes, Jackie Godwin, Lonnie Wilson, Matt Robbins and Jimmie Stanton.
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Home, Atmore, Alabama is in charge of all arrangements
FHP Charges Man With Molino Driveway Hit And Run
February 18, 2025
The Florida Highway Patrol has charged a Cantonment man in connection with a hit-and-run troopers say was intentional that left a man injured while standing in his driveway on February 6.
Cody Lee Castleberry, 37, was charged with reckless driving and felony hit-and-run involving an injury.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 10:20 a.m. on Chestnut Road when a black Chevrolet pickup truck struck a pedestrian standing in a driveway. Witnesses told troopers that the driver was speeding and driving recklessly before intentionally accelerating toward the victim, according to an arrest report. The impact threw the pedestrian backward into the driveway.
According to FHP, Castleberry fled the scene without stopping to provide aid or report the incident. Security footage from a nearby home confirmed witness statements, showing the truck striking the victim before speeding away, the arrest report states.
Troopers later located Castleberry at his nearby residence on Chestnut Road and took him into custody.
The victim was taken to a local hospital for evaluation. The case remains under investigation.
He was also arrested on an outstanding DUI warrant related to an unrelated 2021 motorcycle crash on Highway 297A near Heaton Road.
Castleberry was released from the Escambia County Jail on a $3,150 bond.
Here Are This Week’s Road Construction Slow Down Areas
February 2, 2025
Drivers will encounter traffic disruptions on the following state roads and projects in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties as crews perform construction and maintenance activities.
Escambia County:
- U.S. 98 Pensacola Double Bridge Run over Pensacola Bay Bridge – Motorists will encounter an eastbound single lane closure Saturday, Feb. 1 from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. for the Pensacola Double Bridge Run. One lane will remain open for the traveling public.
- Ninth Avenue (State Road (S.R.) 289) Resurfacing from Creighton Road (S.R. 274) to Olive Road – The week of Sunday, Feb. 2, drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on Ninth Avenue, from Creighton Road to Olive Road, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., for milling and paving operations.
- U.S. 90 (Scenic Highway) Resurfacing from south of Interstate 10 (I-10) to south of Hyde Park Road – Drivers on Scenic Highway will encounter intermittent lane closures from south of I-10 to south of Hyde Park Road, Monday, Feb. 3 through Thursday, Feb. 6, from 8 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. for milling and paving operations. Law enforcement will be on site and traffic flaggers will direct drivers safely through the work zone.
- U.S. 98 (Gregory Street) Resurfacing from North Palafox Street to east of 14th Avenue – Drivers on Gregory Street, from North Palafox Street to 17th Avenue, will encounter alternating, intermittent lane closures Sunday, Feb. 2 through Thursday, Feb. 6, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. for milling and paving operations.
- North Palafox Street (U.S. 29) Resurfacing from Cervantes Street to Brent Lane (S.R. 296) – The week of Sunday, Feb. 2, drivers may encounter intermittent daytime lane closures on North Palafox Street, from Cervantes Street to Brent Lane, for paving operations and for crews to place thermoplastic striping.
- Interstate Circle Bridge Over Eight Mile Creek Construction – Interstate Circle is closed at the Eight Mile Creek Bridge through mid-2025 while crews replace the bridge. Signs are in place to detour drivers around the work zone using Pine Forest Road, Longleaf Drive and Wymart Road.
- Interstate 10 (I-10) at Nine Mile Road Interchange (Exit 5) Construction – Drivers will encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions Sunday, Feb. 2 through Thursday, Feb. 6, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.:
- Intermittent I-10 inside lane closures near the Nine Mile Road interchange.
- Nine Mile Road will be reduced to one travel lane in each direction between the I-10 ramps. Law enforcement will be on site, and directional signage will be in place to guide drivers through the work zone.
- I-10 at U.S. 29 Interchange (Exit 10) Construction – Drivers will encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- North Palafox Street, between Hope Drive and Whitehead Drive, will have intermittent daytime lane closures. Signage will be in place to direct drivers safely through the work zone.
- I-10 between U.S. 29 and I-110, is reduced to two travel lanes in each direction.
- The U.S. 29 northbound ramp to I-10 eastbound is closed. U.S. 29 northbound drivers are being detoured to make a U-turn at Broad Street onto U.S. 29 southbound to access I-10 eastbound.
- A new temporary on-ramp for U.S. 29 southbound drivers accessing I-10 eastbound is now open. Detouring traffic to the temporary ramp will allow crews to continue work to reconstruct the I-10/U.S. 29 interchange.
- U.S. 29 (North Century Boulevard) Resurfacing between S.R. 4 and the Alabama State Line – Drivers on North Century Boulevard, between S.R. 4 and the Alabama State Line, may encounter intermittent lane closures for paving operations. Signage will be in place to direct drivers safely through the work zone.
- U.S. 90 Routine Bridge Maintenance over Eleven Mile Creek – Motorists may encounter intermittent eastbound lane closures west of I-10 Tuesday, Feb. 4 from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. for routine bridge maintenance.
Santa Rosa County:
- County Road 89 Routine Bridge Maintenance over I-10 Overpass – Motorists may encounter intermittent northbound lane closures west of S.R. 87 Wednesday, Feb. 5 from 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. for routine bridge maintenance.
- U.S. 90 Resurfacing from west of Avalon Boulevard to east of Stewart Street – Drivers may encounter intermittent U.S. 90 lane closures, between Avalon Boulevard and Stewart Street, Sunday, Feb. 2 through Thursday, Feb. 6, from 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., for milling and paving operations.
- U.S. 90 Bridge Replacement over Simpson River – Drivers on U.S. 90 westbound may encounter intermittent lane closures over the Simpson River Bridge, Sunday, Feb. 2 through Thursday, Feb. 6 between 8 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. as crews perform bridge construction work. Drivers are reminded that the speed limit is 35 mph through the work zone.
- U.S. 98 Widening from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive – Motorists will encounter the following traffic impacts:
- Median and turn-lane closures from Bayshore Road to Tiger Lake Drive.
- Intermittent lane closures and additional median closures between Bayshore Road and Tiger Lake Drive, Sunday, Feb. 2, through Friday, Feb. 7, from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. for stormwater drainage improvements and paving operations.
- S.R. 281 (Avalon Boulevard) Bridge Rehabilitation over Garcon Point Bridge – Motorists will encounter intermittent lane closures Monday, Feb. 3 through Friday, Feb. 7 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. for construction activities.
All activities are weather dependent and may be delayed or rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.
Unoccupied Home Near Davisville Burns To The Ground
January 31, 2025
An unoccupied home near Davisville burned to the ground Thursday morning.
Escambia County Fire Rescue was called to the 5000 block of Sandy Hollow Road, just south of West Highway 4 about 5:18 a.m. Firefighters arrived to find that the home had burned to the ground.
The home reportedly had not electricity or gas service.
The cause of the fire was not immediately known. There were no injuries.
The Walnut Hill, Molino, and McDavid stations of Escambia County Rescue, Escambia County EMS and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office responded.
Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Today Is The Congressional Special Primary Election. Here’s Who Is On The Ballot.
January 28, 2025
Today is the Special Primary Election in the race to replace Matt Gaetz in Congress.
The 2025 Special Primary Election is for Republican voters only. The State of Florida holds closed primary elections, meaning only registered Republicans will be eligible for the 2025 Special Primary Election There is only one Democratic candidate, Gay Valimont so there is no Democratic primary. Today’s primary winner will face Valimont and write in candidates during the general election on April 1.
Polls are open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Busiest times at the polls tend to be 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m., midday, and 4:00 p.m. until polls close.
A completed Vote By Mail ballot cannot be returned to a precinct on Election Day – it must be returned to the Supervisor of Elections Office by 7 p.m. today. If you requested a Vote By Mail ballot but chose not to return it, you can vote at your polling place on Election Day. Though not required, we request that you bring your unvoted ballot package so it can be cancelled.