City Boards A Problem... Once Again

Attending the meeting, I was very surprised by item #16 which called for the replacement of a member of the Board of Adjustments for apparent rude behavior. While I was aware of the first incident with this board member, meeting with him back when I was campaigning just days after, I was surprised (yet not surprised) by the more recent allegations. What really disappointed me, though, was the lack of action by the City Commission concerning another board member and their issue with respecting people coming into our community.

I wrote a blog a few months back on the importance of board autonomy, yet stressing the need for board members to always act respectful and welcome those bringing business and development here to Tarpon Springs. I reiterated over and over that the board should act autonomously and independently, yet remain respectful despite their opinions. Well, after the boards warning to all members of civilian boards, we once again had another issue with the member of the Board of Adjustments that was "addressed" tonight. How was it addressed? Another stern warning...

To preface the story, this board member on the Board of Adjustments was extremely rude to a lawyer representing a development bringing 65+ new homes to a property that has been left sitting for years. More recently, he is being accused of confronting a fellow board member and accusing this new board member of being put on the board by a certain prominent Tarpon family. Now I love resistance, and fighting perceived corruption, but there are ways you go about it. Especially, when you are a member of a civilian board representing us, the citizens. 

Tonight, the Board of Commissioners were very wishy washy before the board member stepped up over what they believed they should do, even though it seemed pretty set in stone this kind of behavior is 100% unacceptable. Once the board member spoke, all of sudden all was well because of the board members so called apology. I am extremely disappointed in the actions of the board tonight, given almost anyone in the room could tell this board member was doing everything he could think of to shift blame from himself and his actions. Personally, I spoke with him short after the first incident, and I can say he was a lot less apologetic and unknowing when I spoke with him. But, out of respect, I won't go into detail.

On a broader view, the city needs to get serious about the actions of their board members. It is obvious a few board members are unfit to represent the citizens on the board, and are continuing the stigma that has been cast over Tarpon for years about our perceived "closed door" policies for new businesses and development. We can do all we want as a city to welcome new businesses, but if they get here and feel as if they are being insulted, we might as well not even try. I was a lot easier last time around on the board, and understand people deserve the benefit of the doubt for their volunteering and taking on of such a task. But that was the chance, that was the warning, and now the Board is almost perpetuating the problem by refusing to address it. We have made some great strides in the city, and it would be a huge loss and shame for a few to cast a shadow on the name of our city. I implore the Board of Commissioners to not only train, but examine each and every board member and ensure they are representing, fairly, the will of the people and can act in a respectful manner while doing so. We the people elect our Board to better our city, and help further positive growth; But we also elect the Board to ensure our city is well represented by the people hired and appointed. I hope if this issue comes up again, we won't just ignore it. While this board member should be commended for his volunteering and efforts, he should be removed for his blatant dishonesty, lack of understanding, and lack of respect for those coming to our community.