Michelle Tappouni: Why I'm Running for Council
(http://photos.metrojacksonville.com/Politics/Michelle-Tappouni/tappouni-banner/1180896218_moqkq-O.jpg)
A native Floridian and the oldest of six siblings, Michelle was born in Gainesville and grew up in Jacksonville and Tampa. She returned to the First Coast in 2001, accepting a position with Breaking Ground Contracting Company, a Jacksonville based general contracting firm. She lived in Riverside until 2007 when she purchased a home in Springfield. Michelle was awarded a music scholarship from the University of Tampa and has continued her education throughout the years in business administration and construction. She recently graduated from the inaugural class of the Political Leadership Institute and is on the board of the ACE Mentor Program and the Springfield Area Merchants Business Association. She served as President of the Associated Builders and Contractors Women's Council during the past three years and is a member of the American Institute of Architects, The Urban Land Institute, Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce, NEFBA Commercial Council and the Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council. She is past president of the Gulf Coast Chapter and National Board Member of the American Subcontractors Association. Besides her professional affiliations, Michelle's community interests include Blueprint for Prosperity, The Child Guidance Center, HabiJax, Angelworks, Pace Center for Girls, The Bridge, Springfield Animal Care & Rescue, Girl Scouts and various events promoting other worthwhile causes.
Now she's running for City Council
Full Article
http://www.metrojacksonville.com/article/2011-feb-michelle-tappouni-why-im-running-for-council
She has my vote. Also I can't wait to go kayaking with her on Hogans Creek and popping out at the Maxwell House Plant. Now that' what I call good to the last drop. ;D
Michelle is a great choice for city council. She's a well-respected member of the Springfield community -- able to leap over the neighborhood politics to look at the larger picture. Great training for greater (if less intense) political battles.
Noone, I talked to Michelle about kayaking with you last week and she is looking forward to it as soon as the weather and her schedule allow!
She will be a FANTASTIC councilwoman.
You know ive decided to vote for Tappouni too but arent there more candidates than just Hall? i thought there are 4 or something
I've been hearing wonderful things about both Michelle Tappouni and Sean Hall.
I'm even seeing Tappouni's signs over in Avondale. Hall's seem to be confined to Springfield. This race is county-wide, so getting the message out beyond 32206 is important.
Michelle has signs in San Marco, too!
Letters and Numbers, there are other candidates in this race but Michelle and Sean seem to be the frontrunners (along with another gentleman who is associated with the Observer whose name unfortunately escapes me).
All of the viable candidates are Republicans but Michelle has a very reasonable approach to dealing with issues that I think will keep Democrats and non-partisans happy too.
Mr. Hall is married to John Peyton crony/ staffer Kerri Stewart and I think that relationship is cause for concern. Not that Hall and Stewart (and Mayor Peyton, for that matter) aren't nice people, but too many connections to the old regime and favors that will be called in after the election.
I firmly believe that Michelle will do the right thing for Jacksonville, not for a small group of wealthy power brokers. We need change in city government, not more of the same.
I sometimes watch the council meetings on tv. And I've noticed that when people make comments or share concerns, especially when it's a good idea for JAX, some councilmen constantly interrupt with damning and with hopeless responces. They sometimes even laugh at them or give a smart ass smirk, as if to say, "yeah you can just forget about that".
Two councilmen come to mind the most are Cresenbeni and Joost.
It is my opinion that they're a great example of our criticisms on this site. They are both councilmen at large and, I think they're up for elections this time, Let's get these country bumpkins out of out city council.
If we can get Yarbrough, Webb and Redman out as well, it would be a big step toward the 21st century. I'm sure they're more council members we can do without but, this is all I've got so far.
Thanks to Metrojacksonville for allowing candidates to share their platforms with the public.
I am so happy to see so many great WOMEN running for offices this year including Michelle Tappouni. I know her personally and can attest to her dedication to the Jacksonville community at-large. She proves this everyday by getting out there and meeting key city personnel, attending issue-critical events and making herself available to discuss the issues. She will be a strong advocate for Jax residents and work tirelessly to represent their voices at Council.
I concur with the general vein. Ms Michelle would be a good representative for the Group Five...........now if I could ever get 15 min's of her time for a Q & A, I would be real happy...........maybe sometime soon Ms Michelle?
Hi Everyone! Thanks to MetroJacksonville for the opportunity to reach out to all of you and to introduce myself and my candidacy. I appreciate your willingness to engage with your community and I am looking forward to participating in this forum to address your questions and concerns.
Stephen asked me to discuss my position regarding a Downtown Development Agency. As you know I am a resident of Historic Springfield, passionate about my neighborhood and I have been following all initiatives related to our urban core for many years. We have so many assets and such untapped potential! There are key issues including available and affordable transportation and housing as well as linking our surrounding neighborhoods. I do believe we need one agency to coordinate all of the downtown actions to create a cohesive effort. I was able to attend a presentation of the Northbank Redevelopment Task Force Report, released yesterday, by the Jacksonville Civic Council. I am in the process of reviewing the entire report but I was very interested in the comments made by Mr. Haskell and Mr. Rummell regarding a targeted focus for a specific area of downtown. This process has been successful in other cities and I am optimistic that our business leaders are committed to finding a solution to our challenges.
More to Come!
Michelle
Quote from: CS Foltz on February 09, 2011, 12:27:06 PM
I concur with the general vein. Ms Michelle would be a good representative for the Group Five...........now if I could ever get 15 min's of her time for a Q & A, I would be real happy...........maybe sometime soon Ms Michelle?
Hi CS-How about coffee at our favorite place, 8:00am this Friday?
I'll not be voting for ither of the two..they both aleign themselves with the republican party and cannot be trusted...sorry but the truth hurts
What can you expect? They are in politics... They aint gonna touch anything to do with Israel, Weed, or Reality. Come on now :)
Quote from: Garden guy on February 14, 2011, 09:11:05 AM
I'll not be voting for ither of the two..they both aleign themselves with the republican party and cannot be trusted...sorry but the truth hurts
How very open minded of you.
Quote from: Miss Fixit on February 08, 2011, 09:51:29 AM
Noone, I talked to Michelle about kayaking with you last week and she is looking forward to it as soon as the weather and her schedule allow!
She will be a FANTASTIC councilwoman.
Campaign Promise made and Campaign Promise kept. Today we kayaked Hogans Creek and I have never been more energized about a candidate. Her 4 pillars and her participation in an activity that will contribute to making our Downtown a Destination has me saying to everyone.
VOTE YES for Michelle Tappouni At-Large Group 5
Quote from: Demosthenes on February 16, 2011, 11:24:05 AM
Quote from: Garden guy on February 14, 2011, 09:11:05 AM
I'll not be voting for ither of the two..they both aleign themselves with the republican party and cannot be trusted...sorry but the truth hurts
How very open minded of you.
Bird of a feather flock together...
Quote from: Noone on February 25, 2011, 10:08:53 PM
Quote from: Miss Fixit on February 08, 2011, 09:51:29 AM
Noone, I talked to Michelle about kayaking with you last week and she is looking forward to it as soon as the weather and her schedule allow!
She will be a FANTASTIC councilwoman.
Campaign Promise made and Campaign Promise kept. Today we kayaked Hogans Creek and I have never been more energized about a candidate. Her 4 pillars and her participation in an activity that will contribute to making our Downtown a Destination has me saying to everyone.
VOTE YES for Michelle Tappouni At-Large Group 5
Keep spreading the word, Noone! Michelle has a tough race ahead but she is without a doubt the best (wo)man for the job
Big thank you to Noone for taking time from his schedule to introduce me to the beauty, potential and challenges of Hogan's Creek!
Quote from: votetappouni on February 28, 2011, 12:59:35 PM
Big thank you to Noone for taking time from his schedule to introduce me to the beauty, potential and challenges of Hogan's Creek!
Mrs Tappouni,
A HUGE thank you for taking the time to visit with Noone.
You have my unequivical vote and I will tell others of my support for your campaign.
Happy Wednesday Everyone! Hope you will join us on this beautiful evening at Downtown ArtWalk! Support the amazing artists and have a bite to eat at one of the downtown restaurants. I will be 'meeting and greeting' at the old Central Fire Station, corner of Adams and Ocean if you want to stop by and chat.
Have fun!
Quote from: votetappouni on February 28, 2011, 12:59:35 PM
The beauty, potential, and challenges of Hogan's Creek!
Yesterday Maritime history was made when Mayor Peyton arrived by boat to the ribbon cutting ceremony of the floating dock at RAM.
Michelle Tappouni as the next At-large Group 5 city councilmember will also participate in ribbon cutting ceremonies all over the city as she recognizes the benefit of access and economic opportunity to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River.
Hogans Creek is one such opportunity.
I've had meetings with Michelle regarding construction projects and was impressed with her knowledge and skills. I like the fact that she had actually kayaked McCoy's creek!
We paddled Hogans Creek. But I wouldn't be surprised that as the next At-large Jacksonville city council Representative that she will also explore the urban Waterways under the Times Union which is McCoys Creek.
In less than 4 hours everyone needs to ask her at the political hobnob at the Hyatt. How did you like paddling Hogans Creek? Its this experience that she has personally participated in that will bring an answer on how she will represent all of Jacksonville.
Thank you to the Cummer Museum of Arts and sponsors for hosting last night's Jacksonville Quality Forum. It was great to answer questions related to the quality of life in our city. I appreciate all the citizens that turned out for the event and look forward to more discussions!
Hope to see you all at the Political Hob Nob tonight at the Hyatt downtown, 5:00-7:00!
Just returned from the Spring for the Arts Event to benefit Cathedral Arts Project. This is an amazing program serving over 1000 children in our community. I invite you to check out their website at www.capkinds.org.
Tomorrow is River Day at the Riverside Arts Market. We will be waving signs tomorrow morning, hope you will stop by!
I have seen your signs around the city. Your camp is getting your name out there.
Quote from: John P on March 15, 2011, 09:03:47 AM
I have seen your signs around the city. Your camp is getting your name out there.
Thank you for noticing and commenting. I am working hard to earn every vote and appreciate the efforts of all our supporters and volunteers throughout the city!
Only one week left until voting... please don't forget to get out to the polls and show your support for Michelle Tappouni (and all the great women running this year)! I know Michelle will work tirelessly for a better Jacksonville community and safer neighborhoods. If you're not familiar with her yet and want to learn more, check out her website: http://votetappouni.com/
Michelle Tappouni for City Council Group 5 At Large! This woman is not only sharp and intelligent, she is informed. I am amazed on a daily basis the depth of her knowledge on many of the issues facing this city. If you haven't made your decision on the candidate you will vote for in this race on March 22nd (or before), go to www.votetappouni.com to read more about her four pillars, her desire to serve this city and her pledge to represent the voters of this great city by continuing to be informed on the issues and make decisions that will improve the quality of life for all in Jacksonville! GO TAPPOUNI!!
I ran into Michelle Tappouni last night and, as always, was blown away by her knowledge of the issues and reasonable approach to the challenges Jacksonville faces.
Please, check out Michelle's website at www.votetappouni.com. Get out and vote - if you're leaving town for spring break, vote early. I'll be voting for Michelle on election day, Tuesday March 22nd.
Remember, EVERYONE in Jacksonville votes for the at-large candidates.
She has my vote already! She is so passionate about the role she is going to take if she wins!
-Josh
I echo my unbridled support for Michelle.
As do I.
I have already cast my vote for Ms Michelle........along with my significant other! There is no question, if elected, she will represent the voters who install her unlike some other Council members in office or running for office! I may as well be shameless and cast my hat into the ring to assist as needed! She will need all the help she can get is my thoughts!
Quote from: CS Foltz on March 18, 2011, 01:35:10 PM
I have already cast my vote for Ms Michelle........
Count mine in that too. 8)
I'm voting for Tappouni. And I'll be referencing her in my future emails to Governor Scott and the other 66 counties in the state of Florida as it relates to economic opportunity and access to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River within our Downtown Jacksonville Overlay Zoning District. Robert says "hey" Your yard sign is proudly displayed.
QuoteShe served as President of the Associated Builders and Contractors Women's Council during the past three years and is a member of the American Institute of Architects, The Urban Land Institute, Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce, NEFBA Commercial Council and the Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council. She is past president of the Gulf Coast Chapter and National Board Member of the American Subcontractors Association.
Lot's of nice things here about Tappouni. But, how does one know she will be any different than the others coming from the building, contracting, developing, real estate group of interests? What makes her different than the other urban sprawlers and tea partiers in her profession? I have an open mind and am just looking for answers. QuoteI do love Michelle Tappouni, Miss Fixit, but I don't think that Sean Hall's relationship with Kerri Stewart or Peyton is cause for much concern. Ive actually paid attention to Kerri Stewart's progress through the Peyton years, and she was pretty much an outsider who kept moving up because of her competence--it certainly wasnt a result of cronyism. There were a few times along the way that Kerri thought it was curtains for her because of politics, only to be surprised that she still had a job based on her ability to get things done.
Sean Hall is the other candidate I am considering here. His wife, Kerri, is a real gem for the City and Peyton's administration. I agree with Stephen Dare's assessment earlier.
Quote from: stjr on March 21, 2011, 08:44:08 PM
QuoteShe served as President of the Associated Builders and Contractors Women's Council during the past three years and is a member of the American Institute of Architects, The Urban Land Institute, Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce, NEFBA Commercial Council and the Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council. She is past president of the Gulf Coast Chapter and National Board Member of the American Subcontractors Association.
Lot's of nice things here about Tappouni. But, how does one know she will be any different than the others coming from the building, contracting, developing, real estate group of interests? What makes her different than the other urban sprawlers and tea partiers in her profession? I have an open mind and am just looking for answers.
QuoteI do love Michelle Tappouni, Miss Fixit, but I don't think that Sean Hall's relationship with Kerri Stewart or Peyton is cause for much concern. Ive actually paid attention to Kerri Stewart's progress through the Peyton years, and she was pretty much an outsider who kept moving up because of her competence--it certainly wasnt a result of cronyism. There were a few times along the way that Kerri thought it was curtains for her because of politics, only to be surprised that she still had a job based on her ability to get things done.
Sean Hall is the other candidate I am considering here. His wife, Kerri, is a real gem for the City and Peyton's administration. I agree with Stephen Dare's assessment earlier.
Well, one thing that makes Michelle different than many of the people in the fields you listed above is the actual company (her sister's) that she is a major part of. They are the area's only real source for sustainable and green building. It's not a catch phrase for them, they live it. Breaking Ground Contracting is not your typical construction company, they are forward thinking and bring sustainable aspects to the every job, not just ones that are looking for LEED certification, becasue they care about the environment. You can see this is their, almost completed, office on highway avenue, just off of I-10. They are completely rehabbing that particular building, complete with green roof and LEED certification, not clearing some land in the suburbs.
Also she has recently been appointed to the City's Environmental Protection Board, an enforcement body for environmental matters in Duval County that consists of nine members who are appointed by the mayor and City Council for four-year terms. Members are chosen to represent industry, conservationist organizations, professional engineers, the medical profession and the general public. http://southflorida.citybizlist.com/6/2011/2/17/Michelle-Tappouni-Appointed-To-City-Of-Jacksonville-Environmental-Protection-Board.aspx (http://southflorida.citybizlist.com/6/2011/2/17/Michelle-Tappouni-Appointed-To-City-Of-Jacksonville-Environmental-Protection-Board.aspx)
All of the Tappouni sisters live in the Urban Core, Michelle along with one in Springfield, the other in Riverside. Michelle is a current board member at SAMBA, Springfield Area Merchants and Business Association. She knows the issues that Small Business owner's face, she's been there.
She finally got to a point where she was tired of politics as usual, and instead of complaining about them, she's stepped up to try and make a difference. Of course, she needs our support and votes to truly make that happen.
stjr, I wish you had a chance to chat with Michelle, that's really all it takes to solidify why one would think she's ready for this task.
Jason, thanks for the full response. I am willing to consider Michelle based on your explanation. If she wins, I hope she is all that you make her out to be. Good luck.
After almost a year of campaigning we are less than three hours before the polls close. Thank you to everyone that called, emailed, tweeted and posted on Facebook today. I am overwhelmed by your messages of support and your kind words. If you are in Springfield tonight please stop by Three Layers/The Cellar (6th and Walnut) and say hello! To all my volunteers still out there waving signs, thank you!
Michelle,
The strong support of "Builders" and Real Estate was a red flag but the long established interest in the river system tributaries suggested an on the ground effective interest beyond the sound bite.
Your hands on getting out there on the water is likely a proven qualifier and you do indeed posses diverse interest and back ground.
Today I voted for you with a sense of confidence and anticipation.
I was proud to vote for you today Michelle!
^ Me too!
Best of luck Michelle: I egged on all my friends to vote your way.
^^ me three
I am so proud of you Michelle! We look forward to great things from you in the future that will benefit all of us as we continue to work to make Jacksonville stronger.
I am honored to have had the opportunity to campaign for the City Council Group 5 At-Large seat. The election did not have the outcome we had hoped for but it is just the beginning of great things to come. New friendships have been formed and existing relationships strengthened. There are too many people to properly thank on this forum, but I appreciate everyone that invested their time, talent and dollars. Our team worked hard during this race and I am proud of everyone that was a part of our journey.
Stay tuned.......
I am very glad to have voted with honor an intelligence for you Michelle!
Quote from: north miami on March 22, 2011, 05:39:30 PM
Michelle,
The strong support of "Builders" and Real Estate was a red flag but the long established interest in the river system tributaries suggested an on the ground effective interest beyond the sound bite.
Your hands on getting out there on the water is likely a proven qualifier and you do indeed posses diverse interest and back ground.
Today I voted for you with a sense of confidence and anticipation.
Michelle,
I also voted for you. Haven't taken the yard sign out of the yard yet. When I do I'm not going to throw it away. I do have a tendency to hold onto stuff. But in this case Hogans Creek and the access issue to this urban waterway for Springfield and the city of Jacksonville will continue to resonate. You will be forever a part of it. Your still going to Make it Happen.
Gaffney won Dist.7 Scott Wilson called me to remind me that the city council meeting has been moved and is Thurs. night. I wish he was calling or responding to my emails about Bay St. Pier Park.
In 21 days a Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting. Anyone on the council can introduce legislation. Candidate Tappouni has never been in a better position than right now to represent the residents of Springfield and the people of Jacksonville.
When she says "Stay tuned."......... I believe it.
Jacksonville missed an opportunity to elect a truly great councilperson. The good news is that Michelle isn't going to disappear - she'll keep working for her community and the City as a whole.
Tappouni for Mayor in 2015!!!
Quote from: Miss FixitJacksonville missed an opportunity to elect a truly great councilperson. The good news is that Michelle isn't going to disappear - she'll keep working for her community and the City as a whole.
Tappouni for Mayor in 2015!!!
Hmmm...what a great idea and challenge for her to consider! If she would, she'd once again, have my vote.