Commissioners Add Four Members to 2026 AHAC Board

By: Shelia Mader

The Jackson County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday night selected four new members to serve on the 2026 Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC). (In the previous edition of the Times, Danielle Newsome was left off the new appointees in error. The Times apologizes for this oversight.)

The appointments came after the item had been tabled at the board’s previous meeting for additional review of the applicants. County officials noted there were eight applicants seeking four available positions on the committee. Prior to the meeting, one applicant had removed his name from consideration.

Commissioners approved the appointments one at a time during Tuesday’s meeting in an effort to keep the voting process clear and organized.

Selected to serve on the 2026 AHAC board were:

Charlene “Trickey” Durham- Resides within the local jurisdiction and  is the owner of Raylene Reserve.

Jennie Ann Dean represents a not for profit provider of affordable housing as a Habitat for Humanity volunteer.

Danielle Newsome is a general contractor and represents labor in residential home building industry.

Rebecca Robinson from Chipola Realty represents a real estate professional for affordable housing.

Other members presently serving on the board include:

Robert Arnold, Jackson County  Planning Commission, serving on the local planning committee.

Regina Hargis-Williams, Banking or mortgage lending industry works for First First Federal Bank of Florida

Lee Gause, for profit provider of affordable housing, owner of U.S. Mobile Homes Sales of FL, Inc.

Joelle Roberts from Florida Showcase Realty represents a real estate professional for affordable housing

Kevin Yoder from Chipola Area Habitat for Humanity represents a not for profit provider of affordable housing.

Kimberly Walters is health care personnel and represents Essential Services Personnel.

During the discussion, commissioners emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong geographical cross-section of Jackson County representation on the advisory committee.

Commissioner Paul Donofro also noted Durham’s previous service on the Jackson County Tourist Development Council.

Each nominee received unanimous approval from the board.

Following the final vote, Chairman Jamey Westbrook congratulated the newly selected members.

The new additions bring a diverse range of experience and perspectives to the 2026 Affordable Housing Advisory Committee as the board continues its work on housing-related issues across Jackson County.