Longboat Key Letters – August 2010
Updated Aug. 27, 2010.
Open letter to Bob White
To: Editor
I wish you to know that some of us greatly admire your tenacity and the stand that IPOC is taking on behalf of what may well be the majority of people on Longboat Key.
I am sorry that you have been subjected personally to vilification by writers in the columns of local newspapers, especially some sarcastic, sneering letters published recently. Those writers may come to regret their support for the Key Club in the future when they sit in the monumental tailbacks, which will be caused if this project goes ahead.
M. Barry
Longboat Key
Thank you to Dick Hershatter
To: Editor
This is a belated “Thank You” to Richard Hershatter for his recent column, “Harry and Hiroshima” (Aug. 13, 2010), and a short note to many of our people who castigated President Harry Truman for dropping the bombs, especially the second one on Nagasaki.
I am a veteran of that war and, with the survivors of my crew, had just completed our tour of duty in the ETO, flying in B-17G’s over occupied Europe. I was not particularly joyfully looking forward to being reassigned to the Pacific. This was during the time that the unfriendly Kamikazes were causing many of the members of our armed services to swim (and drown) in the burning seas off of Okinawa.
Please remember, Hiroshima was bombed Aug. 6, 1945. On Aug. 8, President Truman made a radio address to the world—threatening more nuclear attacks on Japan if it did not surrender. Japan made no overture for peace and so the second bomb was dropped on Nagasaki Aug. 9. The Japanese offer of surrender was delivered Aug. 10 and was conditional on the continued sovereignty of Emperor Hirohito. It was rejected Aug. 11 by U.S. Secretary of State James Byrnes. The Japanese reconsidered and agreed to unconditional surrender Aug. 12—and Hirohito broke the news to his people. On Aug. 14 we ordered suspension of military activity in the Pacific Theater—and there is a foiled military coup in Japan to try to obviate the surrender. VJ Day was Aug. 15, 1945.
But, we must understand that President Truman saved more lives of our military and of the Japanese military and civilians than were destroyed in the atomic blasts over Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Remember the photos of Japanese women throwing themselves off the cliffs in Okinawa. And, selfishly, one of the lives saved may have been mine. But, more importantly, this was the very last time that our military was allowed to use all of its power to successfully end a war. And, subsequently, our occupying forces were not subjected to the type of homegrown terrorist activity that is, even now, killing our personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Harry was one great guy. He did his job—after President Eisenhower was inaugurated, Harry and Bess drove home to Independence, Mo., by themselves. There was no Secret Service following them. Congress tried to give him the Congressional Medal of Honor—he wrote and refused to accept it, saying, “I do not think that I have done anything which should be the reason of any reward, congressional or otherwise.”
Thank you, Harry, wherever you are. Don’t listen to those guys who have enjoyed their lives here and, now, have second thoughts about how to end wars. Wars end only by the victor clearly explaining it to the vanquished.
Bradford Saivetz
Longboat Key
Town organizational review
To: Town Commission
The attached e-mail exchange between Mr. Bart Russell and Commissioner Brenner is being forwarded to the members of the Organizational Review Subcommittee as requested. You have already been provided a copy of the material referenced in Mr. Russell’s e-mail. A hard copy of the same will be distributed at the Aug. 27, 2010, Subcommittee Meeting.
Susan Phillips, assistant to town manager
Longboat Key
To: Commissioner David Brenner
Greetings David. Just following up on the “interview session” you and other members of the committee held recently at Town Hall. I know you have a challenging task as chairman and that you are deeply committed to moving the process forward. Attaching some generic materials that might spark some useful thoughts related to the committee’s mission. If there is anything useful here, please feel free to share to with other committee members.
Also attached is some background information related to work I’ve done with towns at the local, state and national levels. I’m just an interested person who—like you and others in the community—would like to help make Longboat Key the best place possible in which to live, work and recreate. Please let me know how I might be helpful to the ongoing, collective efforts of the committee, Town Commission and town. All best wishes for great success.
Bart Russell
Barton Russell & Associates
West Hartford, Conn.
To: Bart Russell
Thanks for sharing all this material with me. I’ve passed it on to the other committee members, and the town manager is digesting it as well. I’m not sure how we can take you up on your offer to help, but we will not ignore it. What is your schedule for being on Longboat Key over the next several months? That may be the best place to start. Thanks for your interest in making Longboat Key a better place.
Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key
To: Commissioner David Brenner
David, no pressure at all. I’d like to be of assistance as a “mobile road warrior” in any way I can. I’ll be traveling in and out of the Longboat Key area a lot during the next several months. While I can’t commit to a physical presence at meetings, etc., right now, I’d be glad to do “off-site” research and provide feedback on issues you and our colleagues are dealing with. Please let me know if there’s a policy issue(s) or subject area I might be able to help out with.
Bart Russell
Barton Russell & Associates
West Hartford, Conn.
Vision statement, core values
To: Commissioner James Brown and Commissioner David Brenner
Hello gentlemen, thanks again for your work with the Vision Plan Committee. A thought for your consideration:
Vision plans sometimes begin with a short, high concept, aspirational and foundational vision statement that sums up the intent of the Vision Plan details.
For example: “Longboat Key strives to maintain the aesthetic environmental appeal it is famous for while progressing with the times to the benefit of all property owners.” Or whatever.
A vision statement is also sometimes followed by a short list of core values or guiding principles that are the foundation for the vision to guide future decision-making.
For example: “Create a welcoming community atmosphere,” “Exemplary ethics in government,” “Fiscal responsibility,” “Protection of citizens and their rights,” “responsible environmental and aesthetic stewardship”… and maybe a couple more.
The vision statement and core values can be easily communicated to all existing, new and potential property owners and set the tone and attitude for our community. It guides town management and elected officials. It creates a kind of positive brand image for our community internally and externally. It is also easily understandable by all.
As Winston Churchill said, “Some documents defend themselves from ever being read.” At least a good vision statement and core values will be read, understood and used as a kind of checklist, filter for guiding Longboat into the future. The vision statement and core values should be included in a prominent position on the town’s Web site and all key town communication. Keep it simple but meaningful. Make an effort on the vision plan rollout to rally the community around the vision statement and core values. Properly positioned, you will enjoy unanimous agreement even if there are some disagreements on a few of the plan details.
It’s important that conceptually the statement and values communicate basically what we all agreed to in the referendum, your committee and approved by the commission.
Bob Gault
Longboat Key
To: Bob Gault
Have you seen a copy of the latest document we are working with that includes some changes? I think it has some of what you are suggesting but can always be improved upon. I’ll attach a copy for your use. Maybe you could make some suggested changes.
Jim Brown, commissioner
Longboat Key
Latest Vision Plan revision
To: Monica Simpson
Here are some questions, thoughts and tweaks.
May I assume the Member Comments are food for thought?
Pg 1 of 26 – Try changing the title to “Keeping Longboat Vibrant”
Para. 1, line 3 – change future to fortune
Para. 3, line 4 – change been ascertained to emerged; line 9 – add “s” to it
Para. 4, line 1 – drop in brief
Pg 8 of 26 – sixth item down under action add, “conduct study of current pay (direct and fringe) practices of surrounding communities of comparable size”
Pg 16 of 26 – What does next to last item mean?
That’s it for now.
Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key
To: Commissioner David Brenner
Sorry it took me a bit to get back to you.
The member comments are “food for thought” and should be discussed publicly at the subcommittee meeting, as will any non-typographical error items you have listed below.
Monica Simpson, Planning, Building and Zoning director
Longboat Key
North end beach project
To: Town Commission
The town will be posting the bid package on the Internet Aug. 30. The pre-bid conference with contractors is scheduled for Sept. 21. Unless there is an addendum required as a result of the public comment period or modifications made by the U.S Army Corp of Engineers, we plan to accept bids around Oct. 26.
We anticipate awarding the bid as soon as practical, but it may not be until mid-November. Timeframe for work is still late December to early January. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Bruce St. Denis, town manager
Longboat Key
Whitney Beach Plaza buyer
To: Commissioner David Brenner and Tom Aposporos
I’m back in town since Saturday and have been busy trying to support the new Whitney Beach Plaza buyer in his due diligence efforts. As per our past conversations, would it be at all possible for you to meet with the buyer anytime after 3 p.m. tomorrow afternoon? I realize this is very short notice, but I just now received word from his agent about his schedule.
This is part of her e-mail to me:
The buyer will be in town the Aug. 24-25. Right now we are open for meetings any time after 3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 24. We are meeting with Steve Shield (town of Longboat Planning) at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 25 and would be available any time after that. The buyer would love to meet with Commissioner Brenner either late Tuesday or Wednesday after the planning meeting if that is possible. If Tom Aposporos is available, that would be great as well. Since we know how difficult it can be to navigate construction on Longboat Key, any contacts are appreciated.
In case tomorrow is impossible Wednesday would be open after the 9 a.m. meeting with Steve Shield. However we’re hoping to meet with you ahead of the Planning & Zoning Department appointment to avoid any unforeseen issues…
Please e-mail or contact me at my office ASAP.
Tina Rudek
Engel & Voelkers
Longboat Key
Organizational review committee
To: Commissioner David Brenner
As I mentioned, I am interested in being considered to participate in the review of the town organization. I’ll be back in Longboat Key on or before Monday, Sept. 27, so I could be available that week to meet with your committee and other town executives you choose. I’ve attached my bio for your review and use. Please let me know what next steps are appropriate.
Mel Taub
Longboat Key
To: Mel Taub
Thanks for the info. You’ll be hearing from Susan Phillips (town manager executive assistant), as we get closer to your return to set up a meeting with the committee.
Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key
To: Commissioner David Brenner
I’m happy to coordinate with Mr. Taub for a meeting with the Organizational Review Subcommittee when he returns late next month. However, the bio he references as attached, did not forward along with your response.
Could you please send the attachment for my files to ensure I have it available for the committee’s review at the appropriate meeting?
Susan Phillips, assistant to town manager
Longboat Key
This cell towner at 57th Avenue and 34th Street in Bradenton is visible more than five miles from Longboat Key. CREDIT: Bob Craft
Cell towers
To: Editor
There is a cell tower at 57th Avenue and 34th Street in Bradenton on the State College of Florida (formerly MCC) campus. This is the cell tower located across the bay and visible more than five miles away from all bay fronts on Longboat Key.
To be told by the “pushers” or promoters that the tower at Spanish Main or the church would not be visible from the street is an insult to anyone that can think. I was told by a homeowner in Spanish Main that the reason they wanted the cell tower was for the $20,000 a month rent—I told him that $20,000 was a year’s rent.
The owner of the tower makes more than $120,000 a year for every tower they own, $20,000 a year rent is just “chump change” to them.
The value every home in Spanish Main would dump more than $20,000 in resale value if the tower goes there. Think how nice this chain-link fence and smokestack tower would look by the pool at Spanish Main or next to the church. Who would want to buy a home near a cell tower when there are better alternatives?
Cell phones are not phones, they are cell radios—radios do not work well in enclosed buildings. There are better alternatives to ugly towers that destroy the value of all nearby property. We must get working on an island-wide Wi-Fi soon, because a cell tower is like the IRS, you have it forever. I have Sprint and have their free phone—I’ve never lost a call on Longboat Key.
Bob Craft
Longboat Key
To clarify
To: Dave Persson, town attorney
I wanted to clarify a topic, which you addressed in a letter to some of the town commissioners, which appeared in the Aug. 20, 2010, edition of the Longboat Key News.
I have never spoke to Bob Siekmann, however, I did speak to Phill Younger and Hal Lenobel as commissioners at large and also to David Brenner as our District commissioner. It was suggested that I contact Patricia Granger to try to get on the schedule for the next commission meeting.
I did appear before the code enforcement board to answer allegations of having done work that requires a permit without a permit, and I also appeared at a subsequent hearing to request an additional week to comply with the order of July 12, 2010, given that we had some serious family issues we were dealing with, however, the board denied my request and assessed a fine.
As of Aug. 19, 2010, I have complied with the board’s July 12 order by submitting the permit application along with all of the supporting documents.
My issue all along was not with getting a permit, but rather that the building department was not specific with regard to the alleged violations. I had written certified letters to the building department prior to July 12, 2010, requesting more specifics on the violations so that I could comply, however, they never responded. I also wrote a letter and mailed it certified to Bruce St. Denis, and he never responded either.
It is my sincere desire to accommodate the wishes of the town, however, this happens to be a complicated situation with multiple issues. John Fernandez, building official, has been very helpful in trying to help me sort out these issues and get in compliance. I am hopeful that we are moving in the right direction to resolve these issues, but as John admits, he is not the final say.
Any assistance you, the commission or Bruce St. Denis could offer in resolving these issues would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
James Armstrong
Longboat Key
Gulf front property easement draft
To: Mayor George Spoll and Town Commission
As part of the process to be ready for another re-nourishment project, the town manager has asked me to draft easements for all gulf front property owners who have not previously signed a permanent easement. This easement allows sand to be place from the Erosion Control Line (ECL) landward upon private property to achieve a gradual contour from the sand being placed seaward of the ECL.
Bruce St. Denis, Juan Florensa and I wanted to make you aware of this correspondence in the event that you or some of your constituents have questions. Please feel free to contact any of us should you have any questions about this aspect of the project. Hope you are having a great summer.
David Persson, town attorney
Longboat Key
Audio and video productions
To: Town Commission and Town Manager Bruce St. Denis
Just wanted to give you a quick company introduction. We produce the city of Safety Harbor commission meetings and the annual holiday parade. These meetings are streamed live on the Internet, we give them a master signal out for encoding (local government cable channel) and the city clerk receives a DVD copy at the end of the night.
We also produce live events for the city of Clearwater by providing camera work and large outdoor LED or projection screens for their events mainly at Coachman Park.
We run the production truck for Knology (broadband communication company) and use this vehicle for a lot of our events. If you feel you could use our services in any way, please contact us.
Tony Esposito
, Espo Productions Inc.
Clearwater
Citizens review committee
To: Commissioner David Brenner
Thanks for your call yesterday afternoon. I, as you suggested, went on the Longboat Key Web site and printed out quite a bit of material to review and read. As I mentioned to Bruce, I am as a citizen of Longboat Key interested in assisting Longboat Key (pro bono of course) with this or any other project.
I like working on organizational reviews, restructuring, etc., and with my years with Tampa General (when it was a public hospital) and also working with other government agencies (city of Tampa, various housing authorities, Manatee County, Manatee County Schools, etc.), I am quite comfortable with the Sunshine Law and making presentations to public boards. I am looking forward to working with you and your team.
Ross P. Alander
Longboat Key
To: Commissioner Phill Younger
Mr. Alander contacted me recently and expressed an interest in the town as well as the organizational review effort. I am forwarding his information to you for your consideration. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key
To: Town Manager Bruce St. Denis
Hi, Ross P. Alander here. I am a resident of Cedars West and teach at USF Sarasota-Manatee. If I can be of assistance as a citizen in the areas of human resources, labor relations, training or a specific board, please feel free to contact me.
I just finished a training program for Manatee County for 160 first-line supervisors via USF SM. Additional training is being planned. Please contact Mr. Arthur Jefferson at Manatee County should you want further information on the training. I also recently conducted training via USF SM for Manatee County School’s Leadership Development Day. I have attached my resume, etc., for your information.
Ross P. Alander
Longboat Key
Citizens review applicant question
To: Commissioner David Brenner
Dave, while Susan Phillips has sent me all of that Longboat Key info, what I’m still not clear on is, if chosen, what exactly will we interviewees be asked to do?
Nick Kovalakides
Longboat Key
To: Nick Kovalakides
Thanks for the e-mail and your time on Thursday night. We are looking for you to interview a specific department head. You will use your knowledge of that activity plus the background information you received from Susan Phillips to learn what you can about the department—how it’s organized, what its function is and hopefully those things that might be done to improve its effectiveness and its efficiency. This is very much a joint effort of you and the department head. The end product—a list of findings/recommendations will be reviewed with the town manager to ensure the factual accuracy upon which those findings are based. I hope this helps. Believe me, you will not go into an interview without being well briefed by one of the committee members.
Thanks again for your interest.
Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key
Visioning Plan subcommittee meetings
To: David Brenner, Phill Younger, David Miller, Dick Pelton, George Symanski, James L. Brown and Patricia Zunz
You may have received two e-mails notifying you of subcommittee meetings scheduled. Because so many of us use Microsoft Outlook as our personal calendar, I scheduled the two meetings using this tool.
But as a summary, we will hold subcommittee meetings on Wednesday, Sept. 1 and Tuesday, Sept. 7. It appears that both meetings will be held in the antechambers. If you have any questions, please let me know.
Monica Simpson, Planning, Zoning and Building director
Longboat Key
To: David Brenner, Phill Younger, David Miller, Dick Pelton, George Symanski, James L. Brown and Patricia Zunz
I truly appreciate everyone’s very timely response to my request for availability. Based on the conflict dates provided to me thus far (I still have a couple that I need), it appears that we will not be able to meet again until Sept. 1 at the earliest. I hate to ask this, as I realize holding your calendar’s open is not always realistic, but please keep Sept. 1-7 open from 9 a.m. to noon for the time being. If for some reason these dates no longer work for you, please let me know as soon as possible.
We will attempt to hold the meetings in the antechambers if possible to accommodate the larger public group; if not available the PZB conference room will most likely be the meeting place. Once the dates are solidified, I will forward agendas that note the meeting location. In the meantime, I will continue to work with the document and will get the document to you as soon as possible.
Monica Simpson, Planning, Zoning and Building director
Longboat Key
Revised Vision Plan document
To: David Brenner, Phill Younger, David Miller, Dick Pelton, George Symanski, James L. Brown and Patricia Zunz
Attached is the latest version of the draft revisions to the Vision Plan document, which incorporates the subcommittee member comments and those changes discussed at the subcommittee meeting last week.
In the vision plan document, you will find text that is highlighted blue; this is text that directly relates to the possible changing of the title “Keeping Longboat Longboat…” The highlight more serves as a reminder to us all where the references are located.
The text that is in red underlined bold is that which was provided by the subcommittee members or agreed upon at the meeting. The text that is in red underlined bold and highlighted yellow is text drafted by staff in response to comments made by the subcommittee member or as directed at the meeting.
All other legislative text (strike through and underline) is text that differs from the accepted November 2007 version and agreed upon by the subcommittee to this point. Also attached is a document that includes other subcommittee comments submitted that were not incorporated into the document. After reviewing the comments, I believe it is important that the subcommittee have discussion on the ideas and concepts at the next meeting prior to the drafting of text. Please use this version of the document for any proposed revision and for review at the next subcommittee member.
Monica Simpson, Planning, Zoning and Building director
Longboat Key
To: Planning, Zoning and Building Director Monica Simpson
On page 7 regarding a comment by me, the wording, specifically the last word, was not exactly what I said, and leads to the conclusion that the Chamber of Commerce is part of the problem relative to tennis tournament visitors staying off the island. What I said was that the Chamber of Commerce is a key entity in working to correct the problem.
Phill Younger, commissioner
Longboat Key
Vision Plan subcommittee minutes
To: Commissioner Phill Younger
Commissioner Younger, we will go back and listen to the tape. The intent of what is written is the same as what you have noted, albeit done poorly. As these are not verbatim minutes, we attempt to capture the spirit of the conversation. And in some rare instances, we provide direct quotes. I will be happy to modify the non-verbatim text to reflect what is heard on the tape. Thank you for bringing this to my attention.
Monica Simpson, Planning, Zoning and Building director
Longboat Key
Revised meeting minutes—Aug. 11 Vision Subcommittee
To: David Brenner, Phill Younger, David Miller, Dick Pelton, George Symanski, James L. Brown and Patricia Zunz
Upon notification by Commissioner Younger as promised, Ric and Donna have reviewed the tape of the Vision Subcommittee meeting Aug. 11. You will find that page 7 of the minutes have been modified to note the commissioner’s direct quote regarding the matter. Although providing direct quotations in non-verbatim minutes is not typical, we chose to do it in this manner in order to ensure Commissioner Younger’s statement was not misrepresented.
My apologies for the poor summary of this portion of the meeting. The corrected version of the minutes will be placed in the official subcommittee file by the clerk’s office and posted on the town’s Web site by the IT department (thank you in advance to both departments for their assistance).
Monica Simpson, Planning, Zoning and Building director
Longboat Key
Just stating the facts
To: David Brenner, Phill Younger, David Miller, Dick Pelton, George Symanski, James L. Brown and Patricia Zunz
I am providing some short-term rental information that I received from Dick Pelton. I believe it hits upon some of the discussion we had at the last subcommittee meeting. Since it is merely factual data and not a “conversation” about policy, I believe it is OK for me to forward it to you for your consideration for future discussion at a posted meeting.
A chamber visitors guide from 2003 listed 38 places offering short-term rentals. The 2010 guide lists 25 places offering short-term rentals. A 34 percent decrease. The 2003 list apparently did not mention the Holiday Inn—depending on the publication date of the 2003 list, the Holiday Inn was either already closed or slated for demolition.
As always, please do not respond to this e-mail among the other subcommittee members. You may respond directly to me if you have any comments.
Monica Simpson, Planning, Zoning and Building director
Longboat Key
To: David Brenner, Phill Younger, David Miller, Dick Pelton, George Symanski, James L. Brown and Patricia Zunz
My apologies, but as a correction, the 2003 data did include the Holiday Inn as part of the 38 places offering short-term rentals.
Monica Simpson, Planning, Zoning and Building director
Longboat Key
Meeting conflicts
To: David Brenner, Phill Younger, David Miller, Dick Pelton, George Symanski, James L. Brown and Patricia Zunz
Attached is a slightly revised set of minutes. Page 2 second paragraph (Martins to Martinson) and page 5 fourth paragraph (commended to commented) include corrections that were thankfully identified by Barb Murr.
Additionally, due to schedule conflicts the scheduled subcommittee meeting for Aug. 18 will be cancelled, and Aug. 25 is also a conflict. I have received Chair Zunz’s availability, and will be sending a request for availability in a separate e-mail so that we can schedule the next subcommittee meeting. So, to be clear there is not as of yet another subcommittee meeting scheduled. Thank you to everyone who has sent his or her comments to me regarding the Vision Plan document.
Monica Simpson, Planning, Zoning and Building director
Longboat Key
James Armstrong to be placed on commission agenda
To: Mayor George Spoll and Town Commission
The town manager’s office has been contacted by Mr. James Armstrong who has recently appeared before the Code Enforcement Board arising out of what has been characterized as extensive building alterations without permits. The Code Enforcement Board, after hearing the evidence at a properly noticed public hearing, entered an order requiring him to obtain the requisite permits within a certain time, failing which, a fine would be imposed. At the second hearing on the matter, the Code Enforcement Board found that Mr. Armstrong had not complied with the order and levied a fine and administrative costs. The fine continues to accrue.
Mr. Armstrong has now filed something he calls “notice of administrative appeal” with the court. He also has told the town manager’s office that one of you requested that this be placed on your September agenda. If that is true, please contact Mr. St. Denis directly. If one of you is so inclined to place this on an agenda, I’d ask that you please contact Kelly Martinson or me first for additional information. Thank you for your review of this e-mail.
David Persson, town attorney
Longboat Key
To: Town Attorney David Persson
I made no such request and do not want this matter before the commission.
Bob Siekmann, commissioner
Longboat Key
To: Town Attorney David Persson
I, too, made no such request. Furthermore, as I understand, the matter currently at issue has yet to be resolved via compliance by Mr. Armstrong.
Phill Younger, commissioner
Longboat Key
Response to IPOC lawsuit
To: Editor
In the Aug. 13 edition of the Longboat Key News, IPOC President Bob White crows about what he characterizes as a “less than robust response” to Key Club General Manager Michael Welly’s encouragement of communication to IPOC to just go away and stop bothering everyone. Not to mention, the expense and time involved in the litigation IPOC is perusing.
Well, you want letters, Mr. White? Here is one. Even though I am one of your “phantom Four Thousand,” I didn’t write before because essentially I do not believe in beating a dead horse. To further the equine metaphor, I don’t expect a jackass to stop acting like a jackass upon request.
You claim to be on solid ground with your legal position. I guess we will see how that plays out. But let’s remember that the Town Commission was extremely careful in following the steps and procedures laid out by the town attorney and the special counsel. While there is always a chance that their studied guidance could have been incorrect in some instance, it is more likely that your solid ground is more a shot in the dark taken from shifting sand. And even if some aspect in the months of proceedings is found to have a flaw, the remedy is not automatically the reversal of the decision in its entirety. But, of ours, you already know that. And yours is a fight of such high-minded legal principle, you are obligated to fight on. Your staunch defense of your reading of town plans and code are entirely a public service and have nothing to do with not wanting anything to change outside of your front door.
You characterize the Key Club as facing an uphill battle in the courts. First of all, the town is the basic party you are challenging. The town, which acted to protect and strengthen the future of the island for all its citizens. Oh yes, Mr. White, you are aggrieved because despite your bumper stickers and buttons, the town did not choose to preserve the status quo for a select few.
In you current letter, and others, you put great weight on the planning director’s concerns, and the fact that staff “cannot recommend approval.” Where is the word denial in that recommendation? Hmmmmm? Further, the last time I checked in to the way our town is structured, the planning director is not given veto power in land use matters.
Mr. White: you did not succeed in front of the Planning and Zoning Board; you did not succeed before the Town Commission; you have not succeeded in rallying broad citizen support to your cause; you did not succeed in seeing your candidates of choice elected to the commission; you have lost at least one member of your coalition; you risk isolating your remaining members from the island population at large; and your fundraising just may leave something to be desired. Yes, you’ve accomplished quite a lot.
It’s been a pleasure to share these thoughts with you. Please let me know when you want another letter.
Terry Gans
Longboat Key
Aug. 13 column
To: Longboat Key News columnist Richard Hershatter
Your column on the subject date was 100 percent right on target, despite the contrary opinions of various liberal numbskulls who have forgotten or never understood the dedicated brutality and fanaticism of the Japanese circa WWII, or the intense feeling of hatred felt by the American populace even years after Pearl Harbor.
Furthermore, the sons of bitches killed the nice kid who lived next door to us. Heavy machine guns and mortars, eh? I’ll keep my distance. But thanks for your service.
Weldon Frost
Longboat Key
Enjoyed Hiroshima column
To: Longboat Key News columnist Richard Hershatter
I came across your column on Hiroshima while researching you on the Internet after reading your novel, “The Spy Who Hated Licorice.” What a great pleasure to see you are still going strong. Your column struck a chord with me since my father, who passed away in 2006, was also destined for shipment to the Pacific after serving in England in the Army Air Force. He probably wasn’t headed for as hot a spot as you may have been, since his assignment was apparently on the flight line fixing aircraft radios and the like. He told me the story of being there one night when the news came in that Franklin Roosevelt had died, and the impact that had on everyone at the time.
In any case, just wanted to drop you a note to say thanks for a great column and an enjoyable book. I’m reading the second novel, “Fallout for a Spy,” now and just ordered the “Spy Who Hated Fudge” from Amazon.
Tim Draughon
Ashburn, Va.
Thank you
To: Andrew Hylwa and Dawn DiLorenzo
I would just like to express my gratitude to Andrew Hylwa and Dawn DiLorenzo for all the hard work and commitment they put into the Whitney Beach Plaza. Their selfless contribution to Longboat Key, including charity for the victims of Hurricane Charlie, needs to be recognized. I recall as a child when the plaza was first built. It had such promise and was vital to the key, as Publix was still in the distant future. One of my first jobs was stocking and bagging groceries at the Foodway in 1980.
I would also like to thank Dr. Murf Klauber and daughter Katie for their service and devotion to the Colony Beach Resort. Dr. Klauber created a No. 1 beach and tennis facility and in the early ’70s provided employment for my dad, the late Jack Banan. I worked there briefly as grounds maintenance in the mid-’80s.
The dedication that the Klaubers, Andrew and Dawn gave these two island landmarks in the face of such adversity is truly remarkable. Thank you again.
C.B. Banan
Longboat Key
Mosque
To: Longboat Key News columnist Tom Burgum
Bravo on your column. I lived in midtown Manhattan for 40 years, moving here three years ago. I was there through 9/11 (the period is generally eight to nine months to those who lived there), and it was our generation’s Pearl Harbor. The politicians sometimes drive everyone crazy with their correctness and liberalism. The mosque is ridiculous—period.
Thanks for your voice.
Norman Schimmel
Sarasota
Bigot
To: Longboat Key News columnist Tom Burgum
As a New Yorker who lost two cousins and five friends in the 9/11 attacks, who has a police officer brother-in-law suffering from chronic lung problems after being in the pit for four months, I’d like to address your inconsistencies point by point.
However, as someone who takes such offense at being called a “bigot,” and then freely goes on to name-call throughout your entire ill-conceived article, you lost all credibility with me. You don’t deserve an answer. And you certainly don’t speak for me or any of the thousands of New Yorkers I know.
Tired of being called a bigot? You thin-skinned thing, you. How about hypocritical wizened limp-limbed hack? Suit you better? Poor booby, does it weary your rattling bones those who oppose you? How about a little rest then and finally put down your stupid pen so the rest of us don’t have to be subjected to your childish rants.
Jay Thomas
Manhattan
Oilrigs too close
To: Town Commission
Hope you don’t mind us passing observations as UK citizens about the proposed oilrigs in the area. We have visited Longboat Key on a regular basis dating back to 1992 and certainly feel that oilrigs so close to shore would decimate the tourist trade.
As you are aware, a lot of people in the area depend on tourists of any nationality. We have noticed that the proposed distance is three to nine miles offshore, which is very, very close. To create an eyesore in an area of such natural beauty is surely not wise—is oil the be all and end all? We will be back in May 2011 (Longboat Key Hilton) and can’t wait!
Mike and Lynne Lyons
Longboat Key
Longboat Key Club plan will be an enhancement
To: Town Commission
Let’s get honest, please. There have been hearings after hearings after hearings concerning the Longboat Key Club’s plans to upgrade to what our key deserves. In the process this would be a great enhancement to Longboat Key and the entire area. I listened to and watched as “The Club” listened and not only adjusted their plans but changed them time after time, more than just comprise. These changes were, of course, not easy or un-costly. But the club listened and modified so very much. Our neighbor, Mr. White, says the club was never willing to compromise.
I think the results speak loudly and clearly about who was working for the benefit of all of Longboat Key! I am sure that in August 2008, Mr. White stated by e-mail that there was a request from the club to meet to negotiate, which he declined. I have, since the community vote, yet to hear even one Longboat Key citizen say anything except they are pleased not only that it’s over, but they all have very positive thoughts about the outcome and what is to be the final results for our town.
I have been a fulltime resident of Longboat Key for more than 20 years and started family visits in the mid-60s. In all of this time I have seen Longboat Key only get better.
James L. Seaton
Longboat Key
Let the courts decide
To: Editor
I read all the opposition letters last week regarding IPOC’s lawsuit. I find it hard to believe that there were no letters in support of IPOC. Those of us who were at the final commission hearings understand why IPOC is challenging this ruling. In a vote of 4-3, the commission adopted an approved plan for development (first reading), which IPOC endorsed. Two weeks later, a second reading meeting was held (at 5:01 p.m.). The second reading amendments expanded the project to the Key Club’s satisfaction, which in a sense was a new first reading, which IPOC opposed. All this to meet a June 30 deadline imposed by the Key Club!
IPOC’s only recourse is to get an impartial ruling in a court of law. Naturally the Key Club will put on a full court press. They will enlist anyone and everyone (including non-residents of Longboat Key) to try and convince IPOC to drop its lawsuit. Not only do they have to defend the town, and the town attorney’s rulings; they might lose, while IPOC has nothing to lose—they already lost.
The town attorney would like to have the town change its comprehensive plan to conform to the planned development the commission approved before the voters approve Amendment 4 in November. It’s like a football quarterback trying to run a play before the red challenge flag is thrown on the field.
Let the courts decide. We have a commission made up of architects, engineers, etc., guided by a town attorney. Let this important lifestyle change to our community be guided by an impartial judge who will either confirm the ruling or overrule it.
Ray Rajewski
Longboat Key
Commissioners invited to meet with Fire Department
To: Brandon Desch
Let’s try next week.
Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key
To: Commissioner David Brenner
How’s Tuesday morning? I get off duty at 8 a.m. and can meet you around 8:30 a.m.
Brandon Desch
Longboat Key Fire Department
To: Brandon Desch
Does breakfast at Re Federico at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday work for you?
Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key
Key Club—the legal issue
To: Residents of Longboat Key
It’s now a matter of law. As you no doubt know, the Islandside Property Owners Coalition LLC has filed a judicial appeal to the circuit court asking for a declarative judgment that the Key Club’s redevelopment and expansion, as approved by the Town Commission, is inconsistent with the Town’s Comprehensive Plan—the governing document for land use on the key.
This action was taken because we strongly believe that the development order cannot be granted under the existing Comprehensive Plan; either the development plan or the Comprehensive Plan will need to be changed to allow the Key Club project.
The decision to take legal action was not taken lightly, nor is it a delaying tactic, as some supporters of this massive expansion have suggested. Since current market conditions are not conducive to building condominiums (the most controversial component of the project), an effort to delay their construction through legal maneuvers would be foolish. We intend to enforce compliance with the town’s governing documents, protect the rights of our property owners and defend the integrity of the Town Code. Responsibilities that the Town Commission has failed to perform in our view.
We are on solid ground with our legal position. The town’s director of Planning, Zoning and Building, Monica Simpson, and her professional staff also have expressed concern that the club’s redevelopment proposal is inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan. In the staff report submitted to the Town Commission, excerpted below, she clearly conveyed staff’s professional opinion and conclusion:
“Due to the outstanding inconsistencies of the current land development regulations of the rown, the significant departures requested [23] and the continued mass, scale, density and intensity of the overall subject site, staff cannot recommend approval of the proposed alternative development plan.”
Furthermore the report states, “It is staff’s opinion and concern that the end result will still result in overbuilt parcels that are not consistent with the intent of the planned unit developments.”
The Town Commission ignored her opinion and recommendation. IPOC is not as compliant, nor should be the residents of Longboat Key. This is an affront to our codes and history of controlling density and overbuilding on this unique island community.
The Town Commission should be rightly castigated for caving in to the excessive demands of the Loeb interests and approving such a blatantly non-conforming plan.
Faced with an uphill battle in the courts, Key Club General Manager Michael Welly has been actively encouraging their claimed 4,000 supporters to write e-mails to the Town Commission and the media, urging IPOC to ignore the legal issues and drop our opposition. This effort has stimulated about a dozen people to follow this entreaty, hardly a robust response from this supposed supporter base, which we suggest might be better described as The Phantom Four Thousand.
Following a successful legal challenge, the public may have the opportunity to decide whether the town’s Comprehensive Plan should be changed to relax the code and allow more intense development on the key. When the stunning reality of making such a dramatic change to the Comprehensive Plan is apparent, we believe that the residents of Longboat will reject the changes and preserve the unique character of the key.
If you agree with the town’s professional planning staff, IPOC and many others that this massive development plan is not right for Longboat Key, we would welcome your support.
Bob White, president
Islandside Property Owners Coalition
Key Club/IPOC negotiations
To: Town Commission
Thank you so much for your support of the Longboat Key Club development. I appreciate the long and hard road you traveled and admire your decision to do what is best for the island as a whole, not just a small but vocal minority of it.
Attached is a letter from Bob White dated Aug. 14, 2008, in which he made it extremely clear that negotiating with the Longboat Key Club was of no interest to him. Paragraph two could not be any more straightforward and states that he feels it would be inappropriate to even have a discussion. Unless someone can show me correspondence at any later date that states he would like to sit down with the club, I would like to put to bed, once and for all, the continuing rumor that the club never offered IPOC a seat at the table and put forth my own opinion that IPOC and Bob White have never had any intention of agreeing to any construction of any type. Rather than waste everyone’s time with their posturing, they should have just been honest from the start and admitted that they would fight anything that was proposed.
It is unfortunate, after all the concessions the club has made, that IPOC and Bob White will not give up the expensive and divisive fight. But, “selfish is as selfish does,” and I hope that you will hold fast against the next wave of IPOC it’s-all-about-me actions that seem destined to continue.
Marnie Matarese
Longboat Key
To: Islandside Property Owners
Good News! Key Club has missed the cutoff date for their pre-application conference with the town to qualify for a hearing before the Planning and Zoning Board in September. It will now be Oct. 21 at the earliest before the first public hearing.
The Loeb organization recently approached the coalition, through our attorney, with an offer to negotiate on their proposed development. After careful consideration and extensive review of legal documents and discussions with our attorney, we declined their request, as we believe that the massive proposed development is not legally permissible. Diverting coalition resources to fund time-consuming and expensive discussions of this overreaching and legally questionable plan was therefore felt to be inappropriate. Substantial concerns were expressed during discussions among committee members regarding KCA/Loeb’s intentions, given their dealings with the Moorings Marina slip owners.
We decided we would be better off to make our case to the Town Commission and put our efforts and confidence in the public hearing process. In 2004 the town turned down the Key Club plan for 20 single-family homes, characterizing them as too bulky and requiring “departures from town code that are so significant that the character and aesthetics of the south end of Longboat Key are at stake.” If 20 single-family homes created a problem then, what will this massive project create today?
The club is continuing to do damage control over the “meeting center” issue and has attempted to downplay the size and capacity of this facility in a recent mailing to club members and in their last two e-mails. I’m sure that many of you have received these. Incredibly they still maintain that this facility will be used for small meetings of 75 people! The July 3 Observer column written by the club’s PR representative has drawn many letters to the editor, and I thank all of you who wrote one. Mike Seery and I responded with an op-ed piece of our own.
It should be noted that they have informed members of the men’s golf association that improvements to the Harbourside golf courses are dependent upon getting their plan for Islandside approved. A move doubtlessly designed to pressure these members into supporting their plan.
We have hired a city planner to evaluate the appropriateness of the proposed development in terms of scale, scope and density and to testify at public hearings.
The town has hired an independent traffic engineer to evaluate the traffic study that KCA will submit with their plan. We’ll see if the unbelievably low numbers hold up to scrutiny. I will keep you informed as things unfold.
Bob White
Longboat Key
Citizens Committee request
To: Phillip Younger
I received your phone call over the weekend and thought long and hard about your citizens committee. I am going to pass on applying to join. I believe the time for questioning the operations of the town are at budget time. We have a town manager who has been in his position for 16 years, and based on what I have seen and heard, does a pretty good job, otherwise he should have been replaced. I think the town employees will spend a lot of time educating this committee instead of providing the services they were hired to do. I know that if my former employer had asked my employees to form such a committee, I would have resigned. I hope Bruce doesn’t.
Ray Rajewski
Longboat Key
To Ray Rajewski
Thank you for your original consideration. I am personally aware of your background, and I feel that you would have been a worthy and valuable part of this process, but I understand and appreciate your current decision. Ironically, the budget process is currently very much in play, and this review was an out spring of that process.
Professionally, I was actively involved in many similar processes, as a reviewer and reviewee. I share your opinion regarding Bruce, and this process in not intended to over-ride him or to demean his efforts as town manager, but rather to take a fresh approach with “new eyes” that may hopefully lead to some improvements in our operations and services to our residents.
Phillip Younger, commissioner
Longboat Key
Loeb knew the rules when it bought the club
Dear Editor:
On the Longboat Key News Web site there was a posting to the “Key Club strategizes” article in which one of the responses stated, “…rising crime is caused by the economy.” To that I respond:
Rising crime is caused by self-interest and dishonesty. Both poor and wealthy can be seduced by self-interest and dishonesty. Too often do individuals forget the fundamentals of respecting other people’s money, other people’s property, other people’s lives and promises made.
IPOC is representing other people’s money, other people’s property and promises made. Promises were made to the residents of Islandside and Harbourside—John Patterson and Loeb must recognize they are playing only to their self-interest. Dishonesty I will leave out of this—what is legal is not always justice nor is it always honesty. This ruckus is about breaking promises made to the residents of the entire island, and the (single) self-interest of Loeb, nothing more.
There are “sides” other than Loeb’s side, and that is what IPOC is about. If you believe in private ownership, that belief must recognize IPOC does have promises made to the owners for whom it is fighting. Loeb knew the ordinances, regulations and rules when it purchased—LBK residents also knew, and residents depended on the rules and promises. Dan Dowd and Al Green have views that should be respected—I do not presume all will agree, only IPOC, Dowd and Green all have important views for which to give respect and acknowledgement.
The Colony? Now that it is in Chapter 7, several investors have been waiting in the wings to work with the unit owners—which all on LBK will see to be a very positive move to treat both the unit owners and the viability of the Colony in a positive move forward. Investors have been waiting for three or more years to put this back together again! I have watched the real business results of businesses on Longboat for 15 years—I know the actual results. And I know little has changed in the 15 years. The economic stresses are not new, the successes are not new. I see no reason to panic. Decisions made with emotion are normally not good business. Arguments made using emotion are normally red flags.
Bob Parrish
15-year Longboat Key resident
Key Club refused to compromise
To: Town Commission
This letter is prompted by two recent incredible quotes regarding the Key Club expansion.
First, Michael Welly published the statement that Bob White [IPOC] “stated from the beginning that he is not willing to compromise.” That statement is utterly false. Mr. Welly knows it. The commissioners know it.
The IPOC position throughout the torturous process was that the expansion, as proposed, was simply too massive and intense and thus not in keeping with the character of the key and its Comprehensive Plan.
IPOC’s contention was most recently echoed—at long last—by Monica Simpson, the director of Planning, Zoning and Building. Faced with the negative opinion of its own expert, the commission suggested a “compromise” proposal. IPOC, which had long stated its willingness to agree to a rational expansion, agreed with the commission’s plan.
Recall how often during the process the Key Club said: ‘we need it all in order to make it viable!’ Once again, the Key Club refused the “compromise” suggested by the commission. Its “revised” plan, still massive and intense, challenged the commission, and it meekly fell into line.
Thus, we have a 12-story hotel with 196 rooms, plus 76 condominiums atop the hotel rooms, a total of 155 condominiums, a giant convention center, a health club and money-generating spa, and a vanishing driving range.
It was not IPOC but the Key Club that refused compromise. Testimony established that the Ritz Carlton and the Four Seasons, in constructing a hotel, would require about 25 percent of the rooms to be condominium to make the hotel construction “viable.” The Key Club ended up with condos amounting to 80 percent of the hotel rooms, always with the claim that with any compromise they would pull the plug.
The second incredible quote is from Commissioner Jim Brown in the Longboat Observer. He stated, “But we don’t want to be Naples anymore. Naples vision was to grow and we don’t want their density.” Given that Brown was the most unabashed cheerleader on the Town Commission for the massive expansion of the Key Club, this struck me as a rather strange comment.
But his comment fairly sums up the position of IPOC and those who oppose the over commercialization of the key granted to the Loeb Corporation. One wonders who will be next.
Dave Decker
Longboat Key
To: Dave Decker
I would just like to point out that when the Key Club proposal that was approved by the commission by a vote of 6-1 is built, the density of the Gulf Planned Development will still be below the 5.05 units per acre that was approved in the referenda of the 1980s.
Jim Brown, commissioner
Longboat Key
Key Club redevelopment a needed investment
To: Town Commission
As property owners on Longboat Key, we support the proposed building plan offered by the Longboat Key Club. This is a needed investment on the island at a time when the economy continues downward. We should be thankful that the owners of the club continue to have confidence in the future economy to pursue this endeavor. There have been numerous meetings and outreach to everyone. Enough is enough. Let’s get going on this project.
Howard and Clarice Feldman
Longboat Key
Vision Plan subcommittee
To: Subcommittee Members
Please find two documents from Ms. Zunz. The first is a response Ms. Zunz prepared and submitted to the Longboat Key News in response to an article by Al Green. The second document is a more detailed listing of discussion items for Wednesday’s meeting; time permitting additional issues can be discussed as the posted agenda is very general and does not limit to specifics of the vision plan.
As we speak, Ric [Hartman] is preparing the revised draft plan document incorporating the changes discussed last Wednesday. We hope to deliver those to you by close of business tomorrow.
Monica Simpson, director
Planning, Building and Zoning Department
Longboat Key
Al Green editorial misleading
To: Editor
It is grossly misleading for Al Green to assert that Jim Brown and David Brenner meet each week by themselves to review the Vision Plan and to assume that Mr. Green knows what they will propose. They are part of a Vision Plan Review Subcommittee authorized by the Town Commission, consisting of six people. The other members of the subcommittee are George Symanski and myself from Planning and Zoning, David Miller from the Chamber of Commerce, and Dick Pelton from PIC. Monica Simpson, Planning, Zoning and Building director, and Ric Hartman, planner, join us at each meeting.
No doubt Mr. Symanski, Mr. Miller, and Mr. Pelton will be surprised to learn that they have no voice on this committee.
Patricia Zunz, chairman
Vision Plan Review Subcommittee
Citizen subcommittee for improving town operations
To: Commissioner David Brenner
My wife, Michele, and I have been Longboat Key residents for the past three years and now feel that we are “established” residents of this beautiful island. We have followed the local issues and challenges facing Longboat Key and would like to become more engaged. The commissioner’s recent decision to seek knowledgeable residents to review and offer recommendations that would improve the town’s operations is a great idea.
My background is quite diverse with experience in small businesses, large corporations and small municipal government. I have held leadership positions in most functional disciplines in business and spent the majority of my career improving the growth, productivity and cost effectiveness of organizations or businesses. I feel I could be a contributor to this committee, and I would like to summit my name for your consideration.
I am not aware of the timing or requirements of the committee. I am now retired, but Michele and I spend our summers in Pennsylvania. I would be available to participate in the subcommittee upon our return in mid-October. Thank you for your consideration.
Richard Kaleida
Longboat Key
To: Richard Kaleida
We appreciate your interest in participating in the review of the town’s operations/organization. The subcommittee of the commission has begun interviewing prospects for the panel. We will continue later this month and probably into September. My guess is that when you return in October, we’ll be well on our way. However, time has a way of getting away from us, so your involvement is still a very real prospect. In the meantime, would you please forward a biographical sketch to Susan Phillips (sphillips@longboatkey.org) at the town who is providing staff support to the subcommittee? In that way, we can move quickly should time permit. Thanks again for your interest.
Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key
Town suggestions
To: Town Commission
First, thank you all for your service to our community on the Vision Planning process. As you well know, it is foundational to our future. Most important it is real world input on our neighbors’ visions who have a vested interest.
As I listened to your diligent discussions on what the plan should include the other day, I reflected back to my business experience going through this same process. One important element of feedback to the plan that has not been included in the process is finding out what do Longboat Key’s off island potential “customers” think about Longboat Key as a place to buy real estate, vacation or do business of any kind?
What is our image and is there anything we can include in the Vision Plan, Comprehensive Plan, Town Management tactics, etc., to address any weaknesses that we may have in market perceptions? We think we know, but do we really?
To get at this information, a simple telephonic opinion survey can be done with a few key questions to targeted areas and demographics. Possibly, this research could be managed by the chamber as the feedback would not only be available for vision and comprehensive planning, but would benefit the commission, town management and Longboat Key businesses in helping to guide ordinance, marketing and operating decisions, and productivity.
Given the difficult economic conditions that we face, we must act competitively because we are competing with destinations on both coasts of Florida for real estate sales, visitation, etc. We are in a battle for market share in a diminished market. If we can increase market share of real estate sales, values and visitation, this will “float all boats” including town revenue.
As an aside, a written “customer” opinion survey every two or three years of Longboat Key property owners regarding their perception of town services would be valuable to the commission and town management. This proactive “request for input” would show voters that the town wants their input, is listening to them and responding. Our town is small enough for this process to be effective. For example, this feedback, if it were available now, would be helpful as commissioners and town manager are doing a detailed budget and operating review for efficiencies.
Letters to the editor and public comments at hearings are important, but more broad, detailed feedback from town property owner “customers” would be helpful.
The silent majority is the heart of our community and is extremely important to Longboat’s future. We should hear from them periodically as well. Thank you for your consideration.
Bob Gault
Longboat Key
Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association correspondence commissioners
To: Town Commission
I am pleased to forward the attached letter from FSBPA President Debbie Flack. The 2010 Local Government Award for 2010 is being awarded to the Town Commission and town manager of Longboat Key based on Longboat Key’s current and historical efforts regarding sustainable beach and sound coastal management.
The town has long acknowledged that sustaining our island’s beach is important for many reasons, including aesthetic beauty, recreational opportunities, storm protection and support of our property values. For those reasons, among others the commission has consistently established Longboat Key beach management a top priority.
The award will be presented to the town as part of the 54th Annual Conference being held Sept. 22-24 at the Hyatt Regency Resort on Clearwater Beach. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions, or if you would like additional information about the conference.
Susan Phillips, assistant to town manager
Longboat Key
Gigantic cell towers ruin property values
To Town Commission
Few, if any, upscale, coastal, residential communities have 150-foot gigantic cell towers on their small islands. This lowers property values for everyone on the island. The people who live close to the tower will see their property values plummet!
The committee who voted to allow the cell tower on Longboat Island Chapel property is comprised largely of part-time residents and people who do not live on Longboat. Their votes should not determine property values here.
As commissioners for the people of Longboat Key, you determine Longboat’s ambiance and property values. There are options other than a massive cell tower on our tiny island. Remember the people in close proximity to the proposed tower site, and “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
Anne Summers
Longboat Key
Longboat Key project
To: Lynn Larson
I think it is vital to the community to have this project approved. We have too many vacant stores and need jobs. I voted for you and hope you will vote for this.
Jim Dixon
Longboat Key
To: Jim Dixon
Thank you, Mr. Dixon, I did vote for the Longboat Key Club revisions.
Lynn Larson, commissioner
Longboat Key
Longboat Key project
To: Commissioner Lynn Larson
Thanks for your response. I have been in Longboat for many years. I do think we need to change to develop more jobs for the community. Like you, I have seen a deterioration of the key with vacant storefronts and businesses moving away. I hope that we can move forward despite the objections of those who will never support any change. They seem to be in their own little world and cannot understand the need for this project and others.
Jim Dixon
Longboat Key
Fire Department employee request
To: Town Commission
I would like, if at all possible, to meet with each commissioner individually over a breakfast, lunch or dinner to discuss with you our feelings, concerns and overall how we operate your fire department. I would also like to hear your opinion on how we should operate. There have been some concerns in our organization that some commissioners may not fully understand how fire departments in general operate on a daily basis.
For one example, we have three shifts that operate on a 24-hours basis; each shift works for 24-hours at a time, so if A-Shift comes on duty at 8 a.m., they are living at the fire station for the next 24 hours and get off duty at 8 a.m. the next morning when B-Shift comes in to relieve them and so on. We spend one-third of our time away from our wives/husbands, children and other family members throughout every year. This includes birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, kids sporting events, etc. Just a small example of our schedule that you may or may not be aware of. Our number one priority is serving the citizens and visitors of Longboat Key to preserve life and protect property, and I can say without a doubt you have one of the finest police and fire/rescue agencies in the state, hands down.
I want you to know my only agenda in meeting with you is to inform you of how well this department works and how good it is to work on Longboat Key and serve you. I would like to build a personal relationship with each and every one of you, which I believe has been lacking in the past. I want you to be able to call me at any time if you have a question about anything related to our department or our personnel, so you have a connection with your employees at the fire department. I have a strong feeling that if we have a personal relationship, we may be able to work through difficult times a lot easier and make easier times that much more enjoyable. It is much easier on my part if I can relay to my members your personal feelings, because we do care.
I look forward in having the opportunity to meet with each of you. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to assist you in the future. Please also feel free to come by fire station 2 (just south of Town Hall at the flashing light) on any B-Shift when I am on duty to visit with me and my crew to talk and have a tour of our station and vehicles.
Brandon Desch
Longboat Key Fire Department
To: Brandon Desch
I’d like to chat with you when convenient. Since you are a town staff member and I am a commissioner, it is only appropriate it seems to me to do so with the full knowledge of the town manager. With his OK, I’m available. It probably doesn’t need to be said, but any discussion between us of the firefighters’ negotiations is strictly off limits. As soon as I hear from Bruce, I’ll be in touch.
Dave Brenner, commissioner
Longboat Key
To: Commissioner David Brenner
Thank you Mr. Brenner, I am not looking to speak on the topic of the negotiations. I am looking to start a lasting relationship with each commissioner so we all understand each other better and make Longboat Key the best town in Florida, both for the residents/visitors and the employees. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to meeting with you soon.
Brandon Desch
Longboat Key
To: Brandon Desch
Thank you, Mr. Desch, for the invitation. However, having served on the Town Commission for 11 years, I believe I am fully informed about the operation of the fire department. If I have any questions or concerns, I will contact you.
Hal Lenobel, commissioner
Longboat Key
To: Brandon Desch
Thank you for the invitation to meet with you to become familiar with the fire department. I personally have toured the Longboat Key fire and rescue facilities several times and am very familiar with the work routine of the firemen. I’m sure most if not all of the commissioners have also toured the facilities. I have a great appreciation for what you do and how well you serve the citizens of Longboat Key. While I recognize that you spent an entire 24-hour period at the fire station away from your family, I also know that you have the next entire 24-hour period off to spend with your family or to do as you please. Most working individuals spent at least one-third of their time away from their families while at work.
I would be happy to meet with you at any time if you have a topic that you would like to discuss or just to meet to talk. Give me a call at any time or e-mail me if you want to get together. Thanks again for your hard work and dedication.
Jim Brown, commissioner
Longboat Key
To: Brandon Desch
I appreciate and understand your proposal; however, I recently met with Chief Dezzi (and some of our then on-duty fire personnel), who gave me a very thorough review on the department’s operations.
Phill Younger, commissioner
Longboat Key
To: Commissioner Phillip Younger
Thank you Mr. Younger, I understand you are very well informed about the operations of fire department, and I am also looking to create a lasting relationship with each commissioner so we all understand each other better and make Longboat Key the best town in Florida, both for the residents/visitors and the employees. Thank you for your time and I look forward to the possibility of meeting with you in the future.
Brandon Desch
Longboat Key Fire Department
Things are changing
To: Town Commission
Sometimes it’s sad to watch a soldier carry on their fight long after the battle has ended, not wanting to believe it’s all over. Who would they be, after all? This is what they do. What do they do with themselves now?
May I suggest stepping back, taking a deep breath and recognizing things are changing? The businesses of Longboat Key are going to revitalize this community, not destroy it. Perhaps even create an environment younger people may have a desire to visit. Breathe fresh, clean air into our town (an old motel room on the beach that hasn’t had the air conditioning turned on in a long time comes to mind). We can turn the tide on this decline and nab it before it gets worse. It would be so much easier if Mr. White would realize he has had his impact, and that he can stop fighting now. It’s hard to stop, I know. It might even be too great a loss of pride. Perhaps even too embarrassing to stop now. But a strong person, a person of character and courage, knows when to say enough is enough. A person of integrity lays down his weapon and extends his hand.
All this energy and money desperately needs to be put to good use; healthy, life-giving use. The positive side of life—think of the charities that could have done great things with that money! And the time—how many lives could have been lifted from struggle with that energy? I could go on and on. But I’ll stop here. I implore you, Mr. White. Please.
Leslie Russell
Longboat Key
Hurting the island
To: Commissioner Lynn Larson
Enough is enough! Bob White should drop this lawsuit; he is hurting the entire island all for his view!
Patricia Sugalski
Longboat Key
Supporting Bob White
To: Town Commission
I totally support Bob White and feel exactly the way he does. One of the reasons my husband and I sold our apartment at the Sanctuary is because we knew that if the Longboat Key Club built this new corporate monstrosity (which it would turn out to be), not only would the desirability of living at the Sanctuary change drastically with the new traffic it would bring, not to mention the years it would take to build it. Just hearing that they planned to take away the driving range at Islandside showed me the true colors of the corporate mind.
Those of us who chose to live here did so for either the beautiful golf course, as it once was when Arvida owned it, or the tennis and the peace and quiet of this wonderful key. Any good golfer would never dream of playing a round of golf without having the ability to practice at a driving range before they played. If you play at Islandside they plan to eliminate the driving range. This whole new project will turn Longboat Key into a much more commercial island, just like Hollywood, Fla., changed many years ago.
It’s all about money for the owners and believe me, they’re not thinking about the peace and tranquility we have always loved on the key. Yes, the club should be lovely with beautiful rooms for people to come to and vacation in, and a beautiful golf course, but it would lose that certain charm that it always had in the past. If they want to add a beautiful new and deluxe spa and rooms magnificently furnished, and four-star restaurants, and make the golf courses first class, that’s all highly desirable and wonderful. But knowing how they have promised so many things in the past few years—like working on and improving the golf courses, which they have never done (certainly not Islandside, which is actually more pleasant to play now than the Red, White or Blue at Harbouside)—I don’t believe a word they say.
Anyway, I thought I’d add my two cents and hope that they can improve the club in a very dignified way so that it is appealing to want to come to, and keep the wonderful flavor of the key. I would think Hal, that you would feel the same way and was really surprised when you chose to support all these ostentatious changes. I’ve always admired you and your lovely wife, and to me you are Mr. Golf and I love reading your columns and respect your knowledge of all the “Rules of Golf.” You have taught me a lot. I also think it’s amazing how many holes in one you’ve had. You have a lot to be proud of.
Bonnie Zeeman
Longboat Key
Cell tower codes
To: Commissioner Bob Siekmann
I recently had lunch with the mayor of Bradenton Beach who informed me that his town is in the process of signing a contract with the Center for Municipal Solutions—http://www.telecomsol.com/home.html—to assist them in rewriting their cell tower codes. I have on multiple occasions recommended that our community retain the services of CMS, due to the input from five experts that our present tower code is weak and needs to be improved. I am aware of the town attorney’s opinion that our cell tower code is adequate. With all due respect for Mr. Persson, those five people who have warned that we have a weak cell tower code are recognized experts in the cell phone industry.
I will furnish their names on request. Of course if I did not have the names, and their evaluations of our cell tower code, I would not offer to supply their names to the town manager at his request. I see no reason to embroil them in the ensuing community dialogue unless it is necessary and when it is appropriate. However, it remains that every cell tower expert I have spoken to has held the same opinion about our cell tower code—it is weak.
CMS, as I told the commission numerous times, charges the municipality nothing for their services, has more than 2,000 towns, cities and counties as clients and has never been challenged in court by any cell phone carrier such as Verizon or AT&T.
My question is why would our community not want to avail itself of proven professional services at no cost to the taxpayers? The Bradenton Beach Commission is mindful enough of the public interest that they are availing themselves of the expert assistance offered by the Center for Municipal Solutions.
Gene Jaleski
Longboat Key
Re: M. Barry: Sarcastic, perhaps. Never sneering. What is a tailback?