The Hernando County Commission District 2 race features five Republican candidates vying for a seat vacated by incumbent Commissioner Brian Hawkins, who resigned in June to run for the State House. The August 18 Primary is open to all voters, regardless of party affiliation, and the candidate with the most votes will win the race.
Kathryn Birren, a wife, mother, grandmother, small business owner, and longtime Hernando County resident, is one of the candidates. She answered questions from The Hernando Sun, including why she’s running and her priorities and promises to voters. Birren stated that she’s running to bring the voice of the people to the commission, as many residents feel their voices are not being heard. She plans to hold regular evening town halls to have real dialogue with the community.
Birren emphasized the need to manage new development without exposing the county to costly legal disputes. She suggested that the county must follow its adopted Comprehensive Plan and land development regulations consistently and transparently, making decisions based on solid data about infrastructure capacity. Birren also highlighted the need to repair and update roads and ensure that future growth respects Hernando County’s character.
Birren’s platform focuses on listening to the community and ensuring that growth is managed in a way that preserves the county’s character. She can be reached for more information on her campaign.
Originally reported by Hernando Sun
Sources: Hernando Sun



