Michael Gallen is a candidate for Manatee County Commission District 2

My wife Alexandra and I are raising our three children (Linda 9, Juliette 7, and Thomas 4) in the same place I was born and raised.  We chose to raise our family here because Manatee County offers a wonderful quality of life–and I intend on continuing to keep our community a wonderful place to live, work, play and raise a family. 

I’m a graduate of Manatee High and attended Manatee Community College.  I’m a graduate of the University of Georgia and received a Law Degree at Nova Southeastern University College of Law. I was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2002 and worked as a Staff Attorney for the Florida House of Representatives. I thought in our public school system for seven years.

My legal experience includes work with the Florida DEP, the Environmental and Land Use Law Center at NSU, the Center for Environmental Rights in Costa Rica, and work at Gulf Coast Legal Services.  I’ve represented immigration clients in the Federal Courts and continue to provide pro-bono legal services to indigent residents.

I’m running for re-election to the Manatee County Commission because the citizens deserve a representative that works full time as a commissioner, is responsive and proactive to community needs.  Also, who decides every issue on the merits while heavily weighing the public interest.  For the past four years, I believe I have served the public well and would like to continue to work on uncompleted projects I have initiated as well as attainable future goals. 

My legal education, training and experiences provide me the unique skills and qualities necessary to analyze the complex issues our county faces.   I frequently complete a legal analysis on community issues before bringing them before the board for approval.

Commissioners are responsible for the health, safety, and welfare of citizens.   We need to insure that all citizens have access to affordable health care and to encourage diverting non-emergency care from hospital emergency rooms.  I support adequate law enforcement to protect our citizens and keep our neighborhoods safe.  Drug court is needed to prevent recidivism.  Welfare includes improving neighborhood infrastructure, libraries, and recreational facilities as well as encouraging new business and job growth.

I’ve been endorsed by The Sierra Club, Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube, the League of Humane Voters and Citizens for Responsible Government.

Michael Gallen is a candidate for Manatee County Commission District 2