MEET THE CANDIDATE - KEN PRESTON

My name is Kenneth Preston, affectionately known as “Ken” or “Kenny”. Raised in the Tallahassee area, I attended the public schools in Leon County. It became my passion to dedicate my life to preserving and cultivating families, and striving to make a positive, sustainable impact in our community.

My career began as a public servant by enlisting in the U. S. Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. After an honorable discharge, I went on to marry my high school sweetheart, Kathy Gainous. Kathy retired from a longstanding career as a Leon County School Teacher who enriched the lives of children for 35 years. I have three children who inherited my passion for excellence and service and have grown to become a CPA, Manager over the Leon County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Intelligence and Analysis Unit, and a recent Southern University Law Center graduate with a Juris Doctorate Degree.

I currently own and operate a small janitorial service. My employees and I are committed to providing quality service.. I am a former employee of Leon County Property Appraiser’s office where I oversaw the Customer Service and Exemptions Department. In this role, my responsibilities included implementing and administering property tax exemptions that saved the citizens of Leon County thousands of tax dollars each year. 

Aside from my professional career, I am a philanthropist and humanitarian. As a dedicated volunteer at the VA Tallahassee Outpatient Clinic, I enjoy assisting wherever needed. I also serve in a leadership capacity in a number of community-based organizations. I have been a trailblazer and organizer of the MLK Foundation for over 20 years. As a member of the H. E. Daniels #532 Masonic Lodge, I participate in their annual Back to School Drive, Christmas and Thanksgiving family sponsorships, monthly roadside cleanup, and other activities that benefit the community. I am also an active member of several other masonic lodges and houses. 

A respected Deacon, my role engages in all facets of the church as I lead with a Godly heart. I have been involved in the Primitive Baptist Church Association for 50 years. 

I strive to be the ultimate representation of a selfless, humble advocate for families and a united community. I have a proven history of getting things done and making a difference. I look forward to applying my commitment to the people of this community and these abilities to making a difference as Leon County Property Appraiser.

I am looking forward to using my experience in the Property Appraisers office to:

· Provide an Accessible and Stress Free Experience

· Assist our Community by Staying Abreast of Changes and Keeping

  Staff Trained and Up-To-Date    

· Assure Accuracy of Property Valuations

· Ensure Compliance with Regulations

· Deliver Transparency and Accountability

· Provide Equity and Fairness in the Assessment Process 

•  Volunteer at the VA Health Clinic
•  Member of MLK Foundation
•  Affiliated with several Masonic Lodges
•  Active member of the Primitive Baptist Association
•  Member of the NAACP
•  Over 40 years of managerial/supervisor experience