☼ 2012 Election candidates have the opportunity to submit campaign material from MAY to NOV6th. |
|
|
☼ 2012 Election candidates have the opportunity to submit campaign material from JAN22nd to NOV8th. |
Florida Keys Journal proudly presents our 14th year of quality publishing services. We continue to focus on the Florida Keys in paradise. The lead articles are the In The Keys section that offers opinions and even some editorializing. There are also articles concerning the local political beat. These articles may be published in other media outlets. They might edit them to suit their needs. We appreciate your visit and patronage. Please enjoy yourself while you are here and come back soon! Please do us a favor and sign up for our monthly reminder of the next upcoming issue of The Marathon Florida Keys Journal. Please click on our subscription link at marathon_journal-subscribe@topica.com. When you get a return email to confirm your choice, sign up at Topica, but bypass all those solicitations. In The Keys {for current news, see our Daily News Queue} [Endorsements] [Council 23rd] [Council 1st] [Open Letter to Council] [NSWC] ~Some articles have photos, go to http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.~ October 1, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: City of Marathon City Council Election Endorsement from The Marathon City Council Elections are on November 4. Early voting is October 20 to November 1. Early voting is conducted at the local elections office on 63rd Street [Ocean] in the county building. Since the Journal has been doing endorsements the last three years, this election season is the most difficult decision that we have had to make concerning endorsements. I would really like to endorse all the candidates. All eight are capable of doing a good job for Marathon residents. Some are more experienced and knowledgeable than others. Even then, on-the-job training is not necessarily a bad thing. These eight candidates are mature and serious residents of this fine city. All of them want to do what is best for the city and its residents. Yet we must pick three out of the eight candidates in this race, no easy task. CANDIDATE EVALUATION: Joanie Nelson could easily shake up city council. She would, though, find that taking the oath to the Florida constitution and abiding by the national constitution changes everything. She would not be able to deliver on her “little guy” precepts. Still, she could do well on city council. Keep running, Joanie. Allen Pedersen is an unknown quantity. He did not answer our question and answer series. That is too bad. That makes this process more difficult. The Journal has gleaned some tidbits here and there. He is capable of being a good councilman, but on-the-job training would take over a year at least. The rest are ready to serve on day one. That is amazing considering that there are only three spots open. These six would not be a waste of your votes. The difference between them is rather small. Experience, then, becomes a predominant factor. These next few years are critical to Marathon’s long-term future. Marathon’s tenth anniversary in November 2009 is very close. Kevin Woodland has been engaged and is ready to serve. Ginger Snead has taken a cram course on city government. She could do well on day one. Dick Ramsay, John Bartus, Pete Worthington, and Marilyn Tempest have a ton of experience. The City of Marathon would benefit from Dick Ramsay’s common sense, knowledge, and experience. Unfortunately, there are only three spots on the city council open. John Bartus served six years and helped Marathon get beyond the birthing pains. All of our mayors have done well, but John Bartus seemed to represent the ideal Marathon Mayor. We need Mr. Mayor to take us to our tenth anniversary and beyond. Pete Worthington is our current mayor. Pete has come a long way. He is adaptable and works well with others. Consensus building is a critical skill. Everyone needs a Marilyn Tempest on board. While her attention to detail can be worse than chalk screeching on a chalkboard, her talents are necessary to balance the city council. She is careful, considerate, and deliberate. We can't put off our decision any longer. The Florida Keys Journal can only look at which three candidates can do the most good. All eight candidates are capable and ready to serve. Since we can't elect all of them, our choice for Marathon City Council is John Bartus, Pete Worthington, and Marilyn Tempest. --- September 23, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council held its regular meeting at the Marathon 1. Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Roll Call 4. City Council approved the agenda and consent agenda. [Approval of consent agenda passes all routine items indicated by asterisk (*).] 5. Citizens' comments: Morgan Hill spoke about Equivalent Dwelling Unit [EDU] methodology discrepancies. City Candidate Dick Ramsay requested a lateral summit. This should generate ideas, organization, and fewer taxes. City Council Candidate Joanie Nelson bemoaned the high cost to each resident on wastewater. 6. Special Orders, Awards and Presentations A. City Manager's Report included routine announcement and information. 1. Mayor Worthington presented a service award to Vice Mayor Bull. 2. Council considered a sewer assessment appeal for 4680 Overseas Hwy. Council voted to consider these appeals together at special call meeting to be announced. 3. Council heard a sewer assessment appeal for Gulfside Village Condo Association. Council voted to consider these appeals together at special call meeting to be announced. 4. City Manager Burnett presented the Feasibility Report of Resolution 2008-157 concerning bookkeeping duties. He recommended keeping the contractor. Council accepted the recommendation B. Council accepted the Marathon Chamber of Commerce donation to Beautification Committee. The amount was $10,000. C. Jimmy Morales presented the City Attorney Monthly Report. D. Mayor Worthington presented the Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation. E. Mayor Worthington presented the Proclamation for Fire Prevention Week, October 5 – 11th. 7. City Council Items *A. Council approved City Council Minutes. B. Mayor Worthington presented Jimmy Schmidt his five-year employment anniversary award. C. Mayor Worthington led the street flooding discussion. Residents spoke about constant flooding. Community Services Director Susie Thomas spoke on the city’s plans. Ted Luke spoke about Flamingo Isle community. Diane Chaplin-Colvard spoke on flooding problems on Sombrero Boulevard. Bill Wilkinson spoke briefly about flooding. City Council Candidate Joanie Nelson spoke about 46th Street flooding. D. Councilman Vasil led the council policies discussion. He faulted staff on not enforcing the Dodge Lake Boat Ramp being open from sunset to sunrise. City Manager Burnett reported that some councilmembers now want to do a workshop on parking issues. Councilman Vasil insisted that council direction be acted upon. Vice Mayor Bull praised staff on actions so far. E. Councilman Vasil led the Building Department discussion. He asked the City Manager to give an update on Building Department issues. Burnett suggested that M. T. Causley be contracted for building inspectors on as needed basis. F. Council discussed the city attorney services agreement. 8. Ordinances for First Public Hearing and Enactment A. Ordinance 2008-26 amended Chapter 106 and Chapter 110 of the Land Development Regulations allowing for the distinction between riparian mangrove fringes and isolated mangrove communities. 9. Ordinances for First Public Hearing A. Ordinance 2008-25 amended Chapter 32 of Marathon Code to prohibit parking in fire lanes. City Council Candidate Joanie Nelson spoke in support of this ordinance. Jerry Mayotte spoke about Fishermen’s Point, trap yard fire. B. Ordinance 2008-27 amended Chapter 36 on waterways, providing for a definition of wet storage. Further this amendment provided for a prohibition on wet storage of wet storage within the city managed mooring field and anchorage areas, providing for a prohibition on liveaboard vessel rental or lease for the purpose of habitation within the city managed mooring field and anchorage areas. Near Shore Waters Committee Chairwoman Jeri Sears spoke in favor. Jerry Mayotte spoke against wet storage west of Boot Key Bridge. City Candidate Joanie Nelson spoke in favor. 10. Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings A. Ordinances for Second Public Hearing and Adoption 1. CONTINUED - Ordinance 2008-03 amended the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Medium (RM) to Mixed Use Commercial (MUC) for property at 23rd Street Ocean. 2. CONTINUED - Ordinance 2008-05 amended the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Low (RL) and Residential Medium (RM) to Residential High (RH) for property at the Aloha Properties. 3. CONTINUED - Ordinance 2008-06 amended Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Low (RL) to Residential Medium (RM) for at Avenue L Coco Plum. 4. CONTINUED - Ordinance 2008-07 amended for the Future Land Use Element of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Policy 1-3.2.1 “Allocated Density Defined”, as shown in Table 1-1 “Future Land Use Density and Intensities”. This adjusts workforce housing densities across several different land uses. 5. CONTINUED – Ordinance 2008-08 amended the Future Land Use Element of the City’s Comprehensive Plan Policy 1-3.5.3 “Residential Building Permit Allocation System (RBPAS)”. This updates language. 6. CONTINUED - Ordinance 2008-09 amended the Future Land Use Element of the City’s Comprehensive Plan Policy 1-3.5.7 “Commercial Building Permit Allocation System (CBPAS)”. This clarifies the language. 11. Resolutions for Adoption A. CONTINUED - Resolution 2008-110 authorized the award of Construction Contract To Lanzo Construction Co., Florida for construction of Service Area 5 collection system for wastewater and stormwater for $19,126,494. B. *Resolution 2008-123 recreated, composed, appointed members, and adopted By-Laws for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Citizens Advisory Task Force. C. *Resolution 2008-137 recognized the Ocean Conservancy and Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary for their efforts in organizing and carrying out a keys wide beach cleanup on September 20, 2008. D. Resolution 2008-138 allowed the borrowing of $10,000,000 from Branch Banking and Trust Company. This is to finance a portion of the wastewater system and stormwater system construction and improvements. The issuance of a wastewater system revenue bond, series 2008 is part of the resolution. There are more details not pertinent to the main purpose of the resolution. In essence, it is legalese blah blah blah. Interest is about 3% with a term of thirty-nine months. Cost to the city is about $21,000. Councilman Vasil still thinks that the city is going too fast. He won’t support any further action beyond Service Area #4. Councilman Cinque said that we can’t panic; we need to proceed. Vasil voted no, but it passed 4-1. E. Resolution 2008-139 authorized Change Order # 2 to contract Universal Beach Services for $6,166.25 monthly. F. PULLED - Resolution 2008-140 restricted parking around Dodge Lake Boat Ramp. G. *Resolution 2008-141 authorize Change Order # 1 to Randall G. Tedder Construction Contract for additional subsurface work for $47,000. H. Resolution 2008-142 approved hiring RBC Capital Markets Corporation as financial advisor to assist the city with the financing of the wastewater and stormwater utility projects. City Candidate Joanie Nelson asked questions. Vasil voted no, motion carried 4-1. I. *Resolution 2008-143 approved Tourist Development Council Interlocal Grant Award Agreement No. 512 for amphitheatre lighting and sound system installation. J. *Resolution 2008-144 approved between $10,000 and $25,000 to purchase additional FEMA insurance. K. *Resolution 2008-145 approved the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) purchase and installation of taps and various fire hydrants in Grassy Key for $100,000. L. Resolution 2008-148 approved the Islamorada and Marathon interlocal agreement to share services of Islamorada’s Fire Chief. Fire Chief William Wagner spoke and answered questions. He praised Marathon’s firefighters and EMS personnel. M. *Resolution 2008-149 approved the EssentialNet Solutions agreement to provide IT services, you know, computer stuff. N. *Resolution 2008-150 authorized Marathon a billing services agreement with Professional Practice Support. O. *Resolution 2008-151 adopted a Wastewater Utility Operation and Maintenance Rate for the Little Venice Service Area for the fiscal year commencing October 1, 2008. P. Resolution 2008-152 approved Monroe County interlocal agreement with Marathon to transfer about fifteen not fifty Transferable Development Rights across jurisdictional boundaries. This is a one-time occurrence. Donald Craig presented the case for the applicant Land and Sea Trust. Karen Wilkinson spoke against the resolution. She is concerned about the city’s assets. An ECMC representative was tentative about favoring this resolution. Joanie Nelson spoke once again. Q. *Resolution 2008-153 awarded a consulting contract to Public Resources Management Group for a stormwater and wastewater financial feasibility report for issuance of utility revenue bond financing for $26,505. R. Resolution 2008-154 authorized the Professional Emergency Services agreement that provides the Medical Director services. S. Resolution 2008-155 authorized M. T. Causley agreement concerning addition Building Department services as needed. T. Resolution 2008-156 authorized Bishop, Rosasco and Company agreement to provide Financial Director services. U. Resolution 2008-157 approved a ground lease agreement to post storm staging and debris storage for property located at JoJo’s on Grassy Key. 12. Citizens' comments: City Council Candidate Joanie Nelson spoke once again. 13. Council comments: Vice Mayor Bull announced soccer events. Councilman Vasil talked about his Boot Key Harbor improvement program. Mayor Worthington said Marathon was lucky to have Hurricane Ike going south. 14. Adjournment: 9:28 PM. October 1, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council Special Call Meeting on Dodge Lake Boat Initially, council directed staff to put up a chain and close the Dodge Lake Boat Ramp from dusk to dawn. Then as the local community surrounding the boat ramp got used to these circumstances, many wanted the ramp restored to its previous hours. Many others still complained about parking, noise, boat trailers everywhere, speeding, and general disregard for the peace and quiet of the neighborhood. Many from the community spoke on both sides of the issue. The council decided to address the issues by putting together a resolution to take care of immediate concerns. An ordinance dealing with specifics and possibly citywide parking issues will come to the council in the near future. Each councilperson spoke to the various ways to solve the problem. With the ramps at 33rd Street and the former Quay, the city will direct boats and trailers to these boat ramps vice the Dodge Lake Boat Ramp. Signs need to be installed as well as no wake buoys. Infractions need to be ticketed. Many spoke at the meeting, but notable were Tom Wright from the immediate neighborhood and Colonel Rick Ramsay from the Sherriff's Office. Common sense will prevail and supposedly everyone will live happily ever after. On the other hand, a riot at Dodge Lake Boart Ramp could be very interesting and slightly photogenic. Taking public input is a primary responsibility of city council. Still, the above coming together of the minds took an excruciating amount of time. Where is Randy Mearns when you need him? October 4, 2008 - Marathon - Jeri Sears: Near Shore Waters Committee met October 2nd at the library. The October 6, 2008 - Marathon - Capt Marti Brown, RN, MSN: Open Letter to Marathon City Council. October 7, 2008 - Marathon - Jeri Sears: Final Beach Report for 2008. Save-A Turtle of the Florida Keys wish to Sincerely, Save-A-Turtle Final Beach Report for 2008 *Key West National Wildlife Refuge Most of the nests that did not hatch were lost due to water inundation caused by “Fay”. Monroe County Beach coordinators reported 124 nests and 2432 hatchlings. Statically we should get 2 to 3 turtles back to nest in 25 or 30 years! Just think- in 25 to 30 years we might only see 2 or 3 turtles coming back to Monroe County to nest from the 2008 season. October 7, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon Debates at the Marathon Government Center in the The candidate debates of various groups were interesting, somewhat amusing, and really did not break any new ground. The debates covered the Marathon City Council, Monroe County Superintendent of Education, Districts 1 and 4 of Monroe County Mosquito Board, and Monroe County Property Appraiser. I took some snapshots of items that caught my attention. Other news media will do the regular new reporting end of things. The Marathon Business and Professional Women’s Club, Inc [BPW] and Chamber put together this series of debates and did a good job at that. First up were the Marathon City Council candidates. They are John Bartus, Mayor Pete Worthington, Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest, Dick Ramsay, Ginger Snead, Kevin Woodland, Allen Pedersen, and indomitable Joan Nelson. Opening statements were reflective of each unique candidate. John Bartus talked about the economy, funding wastewater projects, and solving flooding problems. Joan Nelson stayed on her continuing topic of helping the little people and ranting against unfunded mandates. Allen Pedersen listed sewer funding, affordable housing, and improved marketing of the city. Dick Ramsay wowed everyone with a bold proposal right out of the box. He wants to suspend permit fees, temporarily stop impact fees, and green light all permits. The only problem with that is the taxpayer will make up the difference. Ginger Snead spoke about her experience and looking toward the future from the city’s tenth anniversary. She did not actually address any issue. Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest spoke about her two-year experience on the council, staying the course, and her successes. Kevin Woodland detailed his community involvement, but did not specify any issues. Mayor Pete Worthington reported that the city’s financial situation is quite good. He was upbeat and said that he would continue to attack the tough issues. The first question addressed the infamous wastewater/stormwater project. Joan Nelson said no money, no sewer. Allen Pedersen asked what all the rush was about the 2010 mandate. Rick Ramsay stated that the project has to continue and funding is needed to offset the burden on residents. Ginger Snead spoke about reducing resident costs. Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest reported on all the progress so far and agreed that resident costs need reduced. Kevin Woodland suggested that the FKAA was better to do the work and charging assessments now is too soon. Mayor Pete Worthington stated that the city is progressing quickly and sharing the costs citywide reduces resident costs. John Bartus said that he would work with the state to reduce resident costs. The next question dealt with US1 appearance and all the delayed development projects. Allen Pedersen said that a traffic study is needed to stop people in Marathon and shop here. He advocated for more signs. Dick Ramsay stated that this affects the local economy and needs action on all sides of the issue. Ginger Snead advocated for long-term visioning. Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest spoke about budgeting for US1 improvements among others. Kevin Woodland suggested that common sense solutions would help residents. Mayor Pete Worthington addressed several items needing Code Board attention. He also said that development agreements need strict timelines. John Bartus spoke about taking action and not just talking about these issues. He identified revenue sources from grants, public funding, and private donations. Joan Nelson loudly talked about not handing gifts to developers and no more Marlin Bays. The next question was on impact fees. Dick Ramsay was emphatic that impact fees must be collected. Ginger Snead was more cautious and suggested that these fees be required on a case-by-case basis. Councilwoman Tempest said that some fees were too high and punitive on everyone. Kevin Woodland stated that lack of impact fees makes the workforce housing crisis worse. Mayor Pete Worthington talked about not forcing the issue and using a balanced approach. John Bartus reasoned that working with the community and the developer will lead to the results desired. Joan Nelson railed about shortening the time limits on development agreements. Allen Pedersen uttered something, but no one could discern exactly what he said or meant. The moderator then asked what project would each candidate bring to the council should they be elected. Ginger Snead listed vision, goals, and a plan to address the top issues. Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest mentioned increasing the user friendliness of city hall and reviewing the Land Development Regulations [LDRs] to correct items that have changed since inception of the LDRs. Kevin Woodland sited US1 beautification. Mayor Pete Worthington talked about fire, EMS, police, and road paving improvements. John Bartus cited visioning by using the existing document paid for in the early years of the city, reducing red tape, and improving public safety. Joan Nelson shouted out no golden parachutes and fat contracts for developers. Allen Pedersen said that marketing and protecting what exists would be his top projects early on. Dick Ramsay wanted to use common-sense solutions to keep businesses from closing. In closing statements, Councilwoman Tempest started first by stating that there were 8 great candidates. She assured residents that she would continue to reduce costs, fund sewers, and ease business restraints. Kevin Woodland said that he served on many city committees as well as volunteering for a number of community projects. Mayor Pete Worthington talked about his being approachable, moving forward, and addressing the economy. He was very upbeat about city prospects. John Bartus mentioned his long public service as two-term Marathon Mayor, three-term Vice Mayor, and 6 years on the first 6 councils. Joan Nelson reported that she would make sewers affordable, reinstate the volunteer firefighters, and ensure no more giveaways to developers. Allen Pedersen relied on his background in big business and promised change. Dick Ramsay indicated that the community and businesses need action now. Finally, Ginger Snead closed out the council debates by saying that she would set goals, establish a vision for the future, and come up with a plan to get beyond the past. There was no new ground broken. No one stumbled. Everyone did okay. Those with a grasp of the issues and the ability to take action were Dick Ramsay, Ginger Snead, John Bartus, Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest, and Mayor Pete Worthington. Kevin Woodland sided more on demonstrating his ability to come up with common-sense solutions. Joan Nelson did quite well, even though some of the issues have passed her by. Now I stayed for the other debates, although those areas are not specialty. The Monroe County Superintendent of Education debates between Randy Acevedo and John Colvard were a bit tame. Acevedo has been in charge for 4 years of excess taxes resulting in poor education. John Colvard promised to improve real education, while reducing costs across the board. Speaking of the Board of Education, it will be interesting if Colvard is elected. I’m all for better education for less money. I think that I am voting for John Colvard. The debates between Joan Lord-Papy and Andy William for Mosquito District 1 and Bill Shaw and Daniel Zieg for District 4 were eye opening. Mosquito Control’s budget is twice what it needs to be. While Andy Williams has been arrested and released a number of times, he still makes more sense than Papy. Isn’t it amazing that voting for the alleged criminal could save us tax money? Daniel Zieg made even more sense by identifying a number of ways to reduce costs by at least half. Joan Lord-Papy has become too entrenched to understand the effect of her decisions on the taxpayer. Bill Shaw is abrasive, condescending, and full of himself. With those qualifications, it is no wonder he doesn’t get it. Stop spending more taxes than you need! The last debate was for Monroe County Property Appraiser. The incumbent Ervin Higgs has steered the ship steadily for years. Times are changing though and require new thinking. Chris Sante has the guts to stop abuses, ensure correct appraisals, and stop taxing workforce housing out of existence. Sante understands that workforce housing, ownership and rentals, must be taxed as current use not the best and highest use. By doing that one little thing, workforce families can stay in their workforce housing. Lower taxes lead to lower insurance costs which all keeps workforce in affordable housing. Chris Sante gets it! Sorry, Ervin, the times they have passed you by. Adapt or get out of the way. October 10, 2008 - Key West - L. E. Shaffer: Paradise Tattoo & Body Piercing on Duval. Photos are available for I always like the music playing in the background. The air is cool, and the store is too. Yet the best part of this Eden of tattoos and piercings are the people. From owners to every artist at the store, they are exceptional characters. They are friendly and talkative. You genuinely feel that they consider you part of their business family. Happy people make other people smile. It’s catching. I know a number of Paradise Tattoo artists, but I would like to mention one by name. She is Mysha, not only friendly but beautiful. She is an expert piercer and takes her time to explain every detail. She is there for any questions and aftercare as well. I was really impressed by Mysha and everyone in the classy store. So take a stroll on Duval until you come to the Paradise Tattoo storefront, open and inviting. Browse the racks of exclusive products. Talk to the artists. Maybe even get tattooed and even pierced. Different strokes for different folks are extraordinary and desirable. Who wants to be plain ordinary anyway? October 12, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: How to Cheat at the Marathon City Council election and get away Former Marathon City Manager Mike Puto, Mr. Marathon (c) 2003 - 2011, 2012 to the rest of us, sent a reply to this article that is interesting to say the least. "I agree with you 100%. I have also stressed this same situation. The sad part is the people approved this type of format to save dollars on a run-off. Also, to change the date from March to November. This sounds good, however, we have elections every year, so every other year we are the only ones on the ballot, unless something else is added on. IE: This year is a Presidential year, next year is nothing. The year after is the Governors year, the year after that is noting and so on. I wonder what we actually accomplished. Like you said, some people might not look at both sides of the ballot. Also, the possibility of long lines could steer people away. October 14, 2008 – Marathon – L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council held its regular meeting at Marathon Before the regular meeting, the council met in a special call meeting to hear and decide non-profit grants for the next fiscal year. The council approved the agenda. The consent agenda is marked by an asterisk [*]. All such items are approved as routine items requiring no public input. Citizens' comments: Marie Schmitt reported flooding in her community and wants the city to fix it. Marathon City Council candidate Joan Nelson talked about no money, no sewage. Dolly Sadowski was worried about coconut palms causing hazards on US1. Council Presentation / Discussion Items Councilwoman Tempest led the discussion on Florida Keys Water Assistance Foundation. This non-profit organization will help fund laterals for those least able to afford it. Their website is at http://www.goodwaterpeople.org. Council reappointed Charlie Miller and Bill Nicci to the Unsafe Structure Board. Mayor Worthington presented the Proclamation for National Massage Therapy week. Mayor Worthington led the nuisance abatement ordinance discussion. The Unsafe Structures Board could be empowered to address such problems. Councilman Cinque suggested that appeals would be heard by the council. Council directed City Attorney Jimmy Morales to bring back a proposed ordinance. Councilman Don Vasil reported on the visioning process to further enhance Boot Key Harbor. Special Orders, Awards and Presentations Community Services Director Susie Thomas and WEC Ed Castle updated the council on the wastewater status. Staff reported the results of Resolution 2008-79 Fire Station/City Hall Feasibility Study. Fire Station #14 is built for a standard fire/EMS department. Staff recommends not putting any city hall functions in the fire station. Burnett requested wastewater/stormwater administrative relief discussion and direction. Staff explained the reason for a recent emergency purchase. $9,800 was used to clean Coco Plum Beach for hurricanes. Boat lift repairs cost $2,600. Council heard Coco Plum Yacht Club’s sewer assessment appeal. This appeal was scheduled with the two previous. That meeting will be scheduled in a couple of weeks. City Attorney Jimmy Morales provided council his monthly legal report. Ordinances for First Public Hearing Ordinances for Second Public Hearing and Enactment Ordinance 2008-05 amended the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Low (RL) and Residential Medium (RM) to Residential High (RH) for the Aloha Properties. Ordinance 2008-06 amended the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) from Residential Low (RL) to Residential Medium (RM) for property at Avenue L Coco Plum. Ordinance 2008-07 amended the Future Land Use Element of the city’s Comprehensive Plan, Policy 1-3.2.1 “Allocated Density Defined”, as shown in Table 1-1 “Future Land Use Density and Intensities”. This adjusts the market rate and affordable rate ratios so that they equal. Ordinance 2008-08 amended the Future Land Use Element of the city’s Comprehensive Plan Policy 1-3.5.3 “Residential Building Permit Allocation System (RBPAS).” This adjusted the scoring system related to RBPAS and BPAS. Ordinance 2008-09 amended the Future Land Use Element of the city’s Comprehensive Plan Policy 1-3.5.7 “Commercial Building Permit Allocation System (CBPAS)”. Ordinance 2008-25 amended Chapter 32 of the City of Marathon Code to prohibit parking in fire lanes. Continued to next meeting, Ordinance 2008-27 amended Chapter 36, Waterways, providing for a definition of wet storage, prohibition on wet storage within the city managed mooring field and anchorage areas, and prohibition on liveaboard vessel rental or lease for the purpose of habitation within the city managed mooring field and anchorage areas. Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings Resolution 2008-162 approved SH Marathon LTD request by for a conditional use permit, authorizing Holiday Inn Express development at 13201 Overseas Highway, Ocean, nearest mile marker 54. Resolutions for Adoption Resolution 2008-140 restricted parking on certain rights-of-way in the North Marathon Shores subdivision. *Resolution 2008-158 authorized an agreement with Monroe County to continue using the Marathon Government Center meeting room at cost. *Resolution 2008-159 approved State Financial Assistance Agreement Amendment No. 2 to DEP Agreement No. LP6802. The amendment concerns the $100,000 grand funding for wastewater construction. *Resolution 2008-160 approved purchasing Community Park security equipment for $18,500. Citizens' comments: None. Council comments: Mayor Pete Worthington made some announcements. So did Vice Mayor Chris Bull. Councilman Don Vasil addressed local election items and encouraged everyone to vote. Councilwoman Marilyn Tempest made some announcements. Councilman Michael Cinque addressed local economic issues. October 15, 2008 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon Permit Fees and Impact Fees, Who Wins, Who Loses. Mayor Pete Worthington said, "... I thought Ramsay was willing to waive impact fees. And Tempest thought they were too high and voted against them. We have two projects coming forward in the next month. He [Ramsay] wants to waive the impact and building fees? That could be $200,000 for these two projects that were moving forward without fees waived. Why? Who is suppose to pay for the $600,000 [planning and building] department? The residents that don't use it? ..." So, let us figure out what is going on. One idea is to waive permit fees to help the local economy. Another idea is to suspend impact fees. Here is the problem with that. Where does the money come from to pay staff time now? Who pays that? Who pays for all the impacts any development produces, even if it just replaces what is there? The idea is to make it easier for developers to build their tourist-attracting developments. Now, who loses, if developers are given a break on permit and impact fees? You, the resident taxpayer will pay and pay and pay. You are the loser. Someone has to pay for staff time and the impacts that development has on the city. There is a balance here. Currently, the most important side of this question is Marathon residents. We are in a crisis that is growing daily. Valuable and irreplaceable workforce is leaving. Lack of workforce housing, increasing taxes, and insurance hikes are driving people out of paradise. Therefore, the emphasis at this time is to reduce the tax burden on locals and assess workforce housing at its current use not its best and highest use. Mr. Property Appraiser, are you listening? State statutes allow for this. Keep the permit fees and impact fees on the developer. Otherwise, the taxpayer pays more. The taxpayer is an endangered species worth saving. Developers we will always have around nipping at our heels. The above article has generated a lot of discussion. That was the intent. I always allow for responses from anyone, campaigns or not. Marathon City Council Candidate Dick Ramsay has been bold enough to come up with ideas, plans, and solutions before being elected. That is commendable and something quite new in Marathon elections. Ramsay sent a response to this article. I didn't reformat his response so you can see his emphases. I will share this with everyone, as it is quite enlightening. "RE: Who Wins, Who Loses – Oct 15th Florida Keys Journal Article. "A recent article asked “who wins, who loses” regarding an idea I put forth on expediting permits, permit and impact fees. "As a 35 year resident of Marathon, and a 40 year businessman, who not only ran a successful local business, but who also was Chairman of the Board of a major corporation; I state empathically that if we don’t recognize the (potential and probable) problems we will be facing, that they will indeed become serious problems. "If we don’t recognize and address these problems, if we don’t toss around ideas, if we don’t vet solutions, then WE ALL LOSE. "This was precisely my reason for discussing expediting permits, permit and impact fees: To get the people of our City talking, to get the people of our City involved in the process, to get the people of our City and our Council to recognize that we have serious financial problems looming on the horizon. We cannot take a “wait and see” attitude. We absolutely cannot, as one candidate suggested, “wait out” the Country’s economic crisis. We must recognize and acknowledge that, while the City of Marathon is not in the dire financial situation that the County is in, we are not on solid ground. "In order to secure Marathon’s financial future for our residents, our children, and our grandchildren, we must act now, and not react later. "At the Marathon City Council forum night I was, as we all were, given a minute to introduce myself. Instead of taking that minute to pat myself on the back, I chose to take that minute to once again discuss the uncertain economic situation, and throw out an idea that would get people talking. "I have presented several real ideas and real solutions that will result in enormous savings to our City. "My proposals have included: · “Lateral Summit”. · “Cash for Cop-Cars and · “Little Venice Airport Rate” programs. "My “Lateral Summit” proposal alone is expected to result in a $7 - $12 million dollar savings for the City of Marathon. "These proposals that I have put forth are not vague ideas, but are serious, well thought out and detailed savings plans. Part of the plan for this enormous savings package in my “lateral summit proposal” involves the City negotiating as a purchasing agent for the materials needed for these hook-ups thus harnessing the power of bulk purchasing; the savings in materials alone is estimated to be 40% -50%. "I am the only candidate who has taken time from campaigning to not only acknowledge the financial concerns, but to address them with real solutions; with detailed plans, not rhetoric. I am the only candidate who has presented real ideas for real savings. "I have several other serious, detailed proposals that I will be bringing forth: proposals that are a part of my “Economic Stimulus Plan for the City of Marathon”. "But, if discussing expediting permits, impact and permit fees stimulated conversation I am happy to hear this, as that was my goal. "We Must, absolutely Must, recognize and address the fact that Marathon is facing uncertain economic times; unaddressed this can quickly turn into a serious financial situation for our City. We Must discuss and vet ideas for securing our City, and our residents, economic stability. "I don’t believe in waiting until we are in a crisis, I believe in crisis prevention. "Therefore, I am glad to hear that the people at large, and the council candidates, are now talking. I am proud if I had a part in stimulating conversation. "There are a lot of highly intelligent people in our community. There are people in our community with ideas that can help alleviate some of the economic stresses we are, or will be, under. We need to bring our community, and our ideas, out in the public light for vetting. "These conversations are a major step towards securing a stronger, healthier City of Marathon. "We need our community talking, and we need representatives that will listen -This is the Only way we will ALL WIN. "This is why my campaign statement has been, from day one, “You Talk- I’ll Listen”. ~DICK Dick Ramsay October 17, 2008 - Florida Keys - L. E. Shaffer: Amendment 6 Saving Waterfront by Current Use Assessment. I This specific amendment fixes a problem for losing waterfront all over the state. You know, it seems like it is always about the money. Waterfront property supporting commercial fishing is more valuable as anything except commercial fishing property. Property appraisers all over the state determine taxable value of each property to its best and highest use. Remember the run up of property values that were probably a factor in the real estate bubble bursting. So this amendment clearly spells out that waterfront property used for commercial fishing will be assessed to its current use, clearly less value that its best and highest use. Property appraisers are allowed is certain instances to determine taxable value on property to its current use. This is also part of the problem with workforce housing. Land Trusts and Habitat for Humanities work hard to put ownership and rental units on the ground to save the endangered species known as the workforce. Once a workforce family gets into a unit, they come up against the high property taxes that in turn increase insurance rates. If taxable value was determined at property's current use, workforce families have lower taxes and insurance. Therefore, Amendment 6 is a start. Many of us urge voters to vote yes on Amendment 6. Here is the full text of Marathon's NSWC recommendation to Marathon City Council: "The City of Marathon's Near-Shore Waters Committee has begun looking at the issues relating to the Working Waterfront properties in the City of Marathon. One item has come up that should help the Working Waterfronts. A constitutional amendment is on the Nov.4th ballot that will directly affect the Working Waterfronts. Marathon City Council is currently working on a resolution supporting Amendment 6. The urgency of this problem goes far beyond just Florida. Maine's lobster market is severely affected by lobsters sell for $3 a pound. Here in the Florida Keys the same thing is going on for stone crab and a variety of fish. Remember every bit of positive action pushes towards a solution. Again, vote for Amendment 6 to do your small part to a very large problem. What's Happening! The elections local, county, state, federal are in full swing. The signs overwhelm the right of ways. Early voting started with lines backed up outside the first day. One can only hope for a very large turnout of voters. Not enough people vote as it is. I wear my "I Voted" sticker with pride. So should you. Miscellany: All these radio, television, and print media political advertising makes one's head spin more time than "The Exorcist" movie. Then you have all those unwanted calls from all sorts of people wanting my vote. How did they get my number? I can understand all the mail. The numerous emails are barely okay as well. Taken all together though and aggravation is not the word for all the bother. Goodness, I'm looking forward to off-year elections just for a break. Soon enough the 2012 presidential race will open next year. Yeah, that is 2009! Finally: Water is becoming a valued commodity exceeding even the evils of oil. States are now fighting among themselves. Think of where we would be without plentiful, clean water? Therefore, we must all get serious about conserving water anyway that we can. So, yellow, yellow let it mellow; brown, brown flush it down. Good words to save water. Shower with friends. That can be fun. Use bathwater to keep plants green. Try some cisterns, rain barrels, and gutter collection devices to save water. Dance with some local natives to entice rain to fall from the skies. Rain, where art thou? Lake Okeechobee is getting a little bit better. Still, we need the rain up that way and how. Dance longer, harder, rain... I expect that we should get used to water shortages; it will only get worse. ACRONYMS:
Kitty Talk
 Internet Stuff
Interesting websites we visited recently:
Poetry Corner There was never Possum dead on Tears a joy End and not From the black Only a spirit Except there was © 2008 L. E. Shaffer
Hockey Puck PGA: Tiger Woods had season-ending surgery. We will have to wait till next year for some more Tiger magic. NASCAR Sprint Cup: At Kansas Jeff placed 4th and points 6th. Dale Jr. 13th and 8th. Talladega saw Jeff finish 38th – 8th points; Dale Jr. 28th – 10th. In the Charlotte NASCAR Sprint Cup race, Dale Jr. finished 36th and remained 10th in points. Jeff Gordon finished 8th and 8th in points. The top 6 in the Chase are widening their lead over the bottom 6. At Martinsville, Dale Jr. finished 4th and 9th in points, while Jeff Gordon finished 2nd and 7th in points. Four races remain to determine the championship. IRL: Danica Patrick was bumped out of the race late, while Dixon wins the 92nd Indianapolis 500. NBA: The Miami Heat are working hard during their preseason games. They look good, but have only won one game. The injury bug has set them back a bit. It will be interesting to see how they start their regular season. NFL: The Miami Dolphins wildcat offense has won them two games against four losses. They have been competitive in at least two of those losses. LLWS/MLB: The Little League World Series is over. Only one team wins the championship. For the second time in four years, Hawaii wins the championship. This is probably the best baseball that you will see, because the youngsters are so passionate about the game. WTA: Venus and Serena Williams have done relatively well this year. Let us hope that they stay healthy for a good run next year. NCAA Football: Ohio State lost one game so far this season, but are winning their way back into the top five. Book Three Twins of the Dark Star
All opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of this magazine, company, or its advertisers. Inputs, email, suggestions, and letters to this journal are subject to approval by the Journal Editor. Submittals may be edited for content and length and become the creative property for the one-time nonexclusive publication of:
Internet URLs: www.MarathonJournal.US Publication date: October 28, 2008
|
| Subscribe Search Site Copyright © 1995 - 2011, 2012 Florida Keys Journal LLC L11000076438 |
| Subscribe Search Site Copyright © 1995 - 2011, 2012 Florida Keys Journal LLC L11000076438 |
|
thank everyone who worked so hard this nesting season. We have a lot of people involved in surveying our beaches at first light everyday and we thank them. We wish to thank the group that takes part in the Stranding and Salvage of sick and deceased turtles. Thank you to the Beach Coordinators who make sure someone is available to walk the beaches, and then compiling all the data for our Technical Advisor – Pat Wells. We have Board Members who not only give of their time by attending the monthly meetings but who also spend time on other Save-A-Turtle projects. We thank the interested members and guests who attend our monthly meetings and help at different functions. We also wish to thank the supporters of our Flippered Friends for their generous donations.
Tyrone's Mobile Car Wash & Detail
Sam Kennedy, Photographer 1-305-393-3939, 699 116th Street Ocean, Key Vaca, FL USA 33050
