Tom Campenni
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IN THIS EDITION OF THE NEWSLETTER
Martin County residents often look at St Lucie County disparagingly.
For as long as I have lived here, St. Lucie was considered not the place to be. It is where people lived that could not afford Martin County. Our schools were better. The place was overcrowded and did not care as much about their environment as we did.
That may no longer be true. Blue- and pink-collar employees are just as likely to be priced out of the housing market in both counties. While Martin County talks about bringing new jobs to our county numbering in the double (and occasionally triple) digits from companies moving to the area, St. Lucie has thousands of jobs being created.
St. Lucie is fast catching up to Martin County in relation to the quality of its schools. Restaurants abound and exceed the quality of the ones here in many cases. Martin residents need to stop being so condescending.
Yet, though I now give our northern neighbor its due, I am not looking to live there anytime soon. Like many of us, I have cast my lot with Stuart and Martin County for better or worse. I think our future here is quite good.
I feel the same pang of regret as most do when they see development happening. But I recognize there is such a thing as property rights and that places which already have the infrastructure should have the infill building.
Those who contend that the future is full of single-family development only will give us sprawl and not “Leave it to Beaver” America. In place after place, exclusionary zoning is being done away with at the state level to provide for more and better affordable housing options. Within the boundaries of the City of Stuart and the county CRAs are where multi-family development belongs.
For those who keep harping about how many units are in a building, you are arguing an outdated concept. If we instituted form-based code, then it wouldn’t matter what is inside the building box because it must still conform to setbacks, wetlands, uplands, four-story limit, and other requirements. It is self-limiting without the government trying to dictate outcomes.
The old non-sequiturs of code and design need to go away. We have said loud and often that we don’t want to be St. Lucie County. Will the state allow us to continue with our outdated zoning and exclusionary policies? I don’t think they will.
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In this edition, we have the United Way and Boys and Girls updates. Nicki writes about stubborn things, Darlene about the school tax, and Hafner on the Indiantown election. Frank is back, Moms define age appropriateness, and Sedwitz writes on water and wealth.
We have our Constitutional Corner, letters, and Jackie’s Spotlight. We also continue with our special Pal-Mar reporting. Our municipal election candidates give their statements, and we bring you up to date on the happenings in government.
Don’t forget to have your Friends & Neighbors subscribe to their own free copy of the newsletter. If you have an idea for a new column let me know…especially if you would like to be the author. Always looking for more and more diversity in our pages.
Have a great Sunday morning!
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VOLUNTEER BOARDS
We often hear from staff and elected commission board members how much they appreciate the people who serve on volunteer boards.
For the most part, the actions from staff and elected commission board members would lead me to believe that is far from the truth. Most elected office holders don’t even know how their volunteer board members voted on the matters that are subsequently brought before them. I have seen too often that commissioners will vote completely the opposite from how their appointee voted on the same matter. How is the appointee representing the elected official’s interests if those interests have not been discussed?
Of course, the elected representative should have the final say. They were elected by the people. However, if they are going to go to the trouble of appointing members to these volunteer boards, the least they could do is speak to their appointees and discuss the matters before the volunteer board meeting.
Not all elected officials have that attitude. There are some who really listen to their appointees. And not only does that make the board member feel his time is not being wasted but also sends a signal to staff that it is not.
That is very important because while staff is not necessarily dismissive of volunteer boards, they can be condescending and give the impression that “we need to go through this procedure, but it’s the commission that counts.”
I would urge volunteer board members to make any displeasure known to the elected official who appointed them and also let the staff liaison know. If no one takes their efforts seriously, then why bother to have the board?
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“What Is The Rush?”
The land development approval process has fairly rigid timelines that are set by Florida State Statute.
What made me do some research on the subject was a column written by Blake Fontenay in TC Palm regarding Atlantic Fields also known as Discovery. Depending on the type of proceeding that is before the commission, there are definite time frames that must be followed under statute. The county just can’t let things go on indefinitely. In my research I spoke to both the county attorney and the City of Stuart attorney beside reading the statutes cited.
How many of us have been involved in a civil lawsuit? The continuances and postponements are legendary. Sometimes, years go by before a court rules or, more likely, a settlement between the parties is reached. It may not be swift justice, but it is due process.
I believe that the project in question is a good one. Unfortunately, for whatever reason, the Atlantic Fields developers decided they needed a new land use in the comp plan instead of the development plan that was explained to me. Originally, they were going to come in and ask for approval of their PUD as an exception. If that had occurred, two of the commissioners who now oppose the introduction of the “rural lifestyle” use would have probably approved the development.
Once the very favorable project became the subject of a new land use introduction, everything changes. Such a change requires more scrutiny and public outreach and education. The new land use would apply to more than just the one project.
On the first hearing date in the spring, almost everyone who spoke wanted to receive more information. There were some that were not in favor. At that point most of us wanted to have our questions answered in more detail. It didn’t help that the presentations given by the staff were not meant for civilians that need more basic knowledge and delivered with more enthusiasm.
Now the entire thing has been hanging around for far too long. Positions begin to harden. In my experience, the longer it takes to obtain an approval, the more opposition will develop. This is what has happened with Discovery.
The agenda for June 21st had three different public hearings regarding this project. The first one asked for approval to create a new future land use designation of rural lifestyle in the comp plan. If that were approved, then the second hearing would allow the Discovery property to be assigned the future land use of rural lifestyle. And then the third hearing would have been to have a PUD agreement and site plan for the property. Each hearing could only happen if, at the hearing before, the commission approved the action.
The first postponement was initiated by the BOCC and was tabled to a date uncertain. The second was requested by the applicant to table the three hearings to a date uncertain that the commission voted to approve. There is a 180-day time frame under FS 125.022 for quasi-judicial public hearings which would apply to a hearing for a PUD agreement. It can be extended by mutual agreement.
Comp plan amendments must be approved by the state. Under FS 163.3184, there is a 180-day clock from the time the state comments are received. Martin County received the comments on March 31, 2022. While there can be postponements, the 180-day time frame is not stopped. The clock ticks down to zero on September 27, 2022. The only way the time can be extended is by mutual consent of all affected parties including those who provided comments.
Would the commissioners like to have only non-controversial land use changes come before them? Sure, they would. But that isn’t what they signed up for. In my experience, the commissioners are genuinely concerned with what the public is saying. They may even agree with the prevailing view and do not like a project, but they just can’t vote no. They have a responsibility to vote yes if state statute and local ordinances dictate that the developer’s request is within the scope of the statute or ordinance.
If at some point this ends up in court, the county will have to prove that it did follow state statute and gave every opportunity to the applicant to be able to make their case. The price of that is sometimes having adjournments or postponements. Property rights are taken very seriously in Florida and a government violates them at some peril.
Deliberative consultation with as many residents as possible should be the goal. The notion that things such as this should be rushed ultimately benefits no one. In my opinion, at this point not enough is known about the classification of rural lifestyle to make a good decision.
Those that are in favor of the classification would probably find very little development that they would not support. And those who are adamantly opposed are no-growth adherents. Most of us just want more information and outreach. I think Martin County deserves it.
That educational responsibility clearly falls on the party that is proposing the change. Until the developer is ready to hire a third-party facilitator that is neutral to go out into various communities and hold informational meetings, this land use change should not move forward.
Public comment is important, but even more important is that the public comment be given by a fully informed public. When the public speaks their opinions should be based on facts not supposition. A reasoned argument is more important than a rushed one. Commissioners are more apt to listen.
(As Published in Martin County Moment)
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IT IS OVER SOONER THAN YOU THINK
The Supervisor of Elections will begin sending out the vote by mail ballots starting on July 14th.
It is estimated that 40-45% of the vote will be done this way. That means by early August almost half the votes will have been sent back to the Supervisor of Elections office. Another 10-15% of the electorate will cast their votes during early voting which this year is August 13-20. At a minimum 50% of the voter will have been completed by election day.
Whatever the candidates are going to do to become known to the voters should be well underway by now. Knocking on doors, handouts, signs, and mailers have or will go out shortly. Those candidates not taking their campaigns seriously will do so at the voters’ displeasure.
TC Palm will have their candidate editorial board discussions and there will be a few candidate forums still to come. The newsletter has given all candidates an opportunity to write an in-depth campaign profile. There were no “gotcha” questions from us just the candidate in his own words…and words are important.
A few candidates in this edition like in the last ignored sending anything in. Why? I can only speculate that they couldn’t be bothered to inform voters about their positions. If an incumbent, then they believed no one could touch them. As a challenger perhaps they were just not prepared to run. At least for me, if they cannot be bothered then I can’t be bothered with them.
As you may know the newsletter makes no endorsements. But there is a caveat. If I feel a candidate is skirting the election law or campaigning dirty, I will then endorse his/her opponent. I am constantly looking at campaign reports, literature, and what the candidates may be saying. If I find something, then I will point it out to you.
So, vote! It is one of the most important things you can do. It really matters for local offices.
IF YOU ARE NOT A SUBSCRIBER DO SO FOR FREE HERE
OTHER OPINIONS
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NON-PROFIT PERSPECTIVE
By Carol Houwaart-Diez
United Way of Martin County President-CEO
One mantra I have repeatedly said is, “A strong, healthy, local United Way is critical for every community.” Here in Martin County, I can tell you that United Way helps many individuals and families through the programs and services we invest in with our funded partners.
We rally individuals and organizations throughout the year to contribute to United Way’s Community Impact Fund. Funds are then invested in local programs that improve the education, health and financial stability of Martin County residents.
But what makes United Way unique is our citizen review process that ensures donor funds are used efficiently on the most needed programs. Each spring, dozens of volunteers provide an extra layer of accountability by carefully reviewing grant requests to ensure the programs requesting funding are effective, meet current community needs, and are financially stable and sustainable.
It is not guaranteed that these programs will receive funding every year. This year United Way had over 53 programs seek its support. There are new grant requests submitted every year from various organizations.
This process is one way that donors can be assured that their contribution will go to critical Martin County programs that are monitored and evaluated on their overall effectiveness in improving outcomes for our community and clients. United Way is allocating $900,000 to 44 programs that applied for funding this upcoming fiscal year. In addition, we operate internal programs and process designated gifts that benefit our community, bringing our total investment for this fiscal year to $1,770,929.
Allocating community impact grants and operating internal programs like the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, the Holiday Project, and the Tools for Success program are some of the many ways United Way addresses our community’s unmet needs.
In addition, United Way is working with the Martin County Board of County Commissioners and staff to assist with the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Our partnership includes monitoring an additional $6.9 million of dollars invested in our community for quality programs with proven track records that provide positive results. In addition, United Way works with other funders in our community to continuously evaluate the community’s needs and programs offered here in Martin.
These are just a few examples of how a strong, healthy United Way in Martin County can benefit our community. I will continue to share some of the amazing work we do in Martin County. When we get closer to the holidays, I will share more about our role as the local coordinating organization for Toys for Tots and how we assist families in Martin County for the Christmas holiday.
On a personal note, thank you to all who reached out to me regarding last month’s article. It truly means a lot.
To learn more about or volunteer with United Way of Martin County, please visit our website, www.unitedwaymartin.org.
Carol Houwaart Diez’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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VANRIPER’S VIEWS
By Darlene VanRiper
Why does the school board of Martin County want to extend the ad valorem tax increase of 1/2 mill over another 4 years until 2025 when we are currently experiencing historically high inflation? There are also all indications that we will enter a recession very soon. The chairman of the school board explained that it is for 5 specific purposes.
Safety. Well certainly no one can argue with that. But consider that here in Martin County, we have become the exemplar for others to follow. Throwing more money at it is unnecessary.
Mental Health. Again, difficult to argue with. However, it is not clear if we would be hiring actual psychologists or simply training already overworked guidance counselors to do jobs they never wanted to do and did not embark on their career to perform.
Parents complain that our students are not getting sufficient guidance regarding their career paths because guidance counselors are dragged into other areas as it is and that they are spread too thin. Practically, I know that when I was in school, all the teachers and the students knew who the kids were.
We knew who a druggie was, a jock, a nerd etc. Any student or teacher could have told you which kids were most likely to act out. What happened to “see something, say something”? Kids with sufficient cause, should be directed to an outsourced counseling facility.
Recruitment and Retention of Teachers. Gov. DeSantis has in the past 2 years raised teacher’s pay and given bonuses. Teachers in Martin County now begin their careers at $47,500 plus $6,500 in benefits including dental insurance. There are stipends worth thousands of dollars available to them if they want to work summer school or coach or direct the yearbook club etc.
Other perks include the ability of their child to attend school in the county in which they work. So, even if they live in St. Lucie County, if they teach in Martin, their child can attend Martin County schools. Teaching in Martin County versus for example, West Palm Beach has to have some attraction…the commute and the mental health of the teacher! Teachers’ salaries and bonuses need to be in the annual budget or this additional ask will have no end.
Professional Development. Well, okay. Why not teach all of our teachers Spanish so they can deal with the 11% of students who speak NO English. They are only half of the total K-3 English Language Learners. So, for 22% of our K-3 students English is not their native language. Regardless of your view on our border, this statistic is growing every year. We do not have enough bi-lingual para professionals to address this problem. Only 53% of our students are reading at grade level proficiency in the 3rd grade. Could this be why?
If we hired more bi-lingual paraprofessionals and paid them properly (their salaries are only now being raised to $15/hr) or paid for our teachers to learn Spanish, could we improve that statistic possibly to 70%? NO BRAINER! This I would happily pay for. Otherwise, I’d like a lot more explanation as to what kind of professional development we are paying for and where its coming from.
Academic – Exasperating. My understanding is that this refers to textbooks, workbooks etc. I hate to keep saying “When I was in school….” but I have only that reference to draw on. So, when I was in school, we used books for years. If Florida quit changing methods every time we get a new Commissioner of Education, perhaps we wouldn’t need to purchase books so frequently.
I’ve also been told that books come in packets from the publishers. When was the last time we looked into these contracts? Can we work some better deals? Bureaucrats tend to get complacent. Maybe they need to shake it up a bit. I’d also like an explanation of controls on laptops allowed to be taken home. What are replacement costs on those?
The MCSB chairman stated that an estimated 12 million dollars would be generated annually from the tax extension. And she frequently points out that the referendum language reads that they can use “UP TO” ½ mill since “they might not need it all”. As a taxpayer I know that of my money… I do need it all. I am not convinced that we got enough bang for our buck the last four years of this increase. The dollars requested in this referendum even defined in 5 areas of spending, is still too fungible for my taste.
Darlene VanRiper’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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Nicki’s Place
By Nicki van Vonno
FACTS ARE STUBBORN THINGS
I love the 4th of July. It is the day I listen to concerts telecast from the Mall, watch fireworks and dress in red, white and blue. I watch tennis beaming live from the gleaming Wimbledon courts. I eat hot dogs or fried chicken, or tacos and I thank God that I am an American.
I watched the recent hearings on the January 6th Assault on the Capitol, learning of new patriots who defended their country. I too think my country’s Constitution and Bill of Rights is divinely inspired. I am so grateful to those who stood up, and protected voting rights and endured the slander and threats of violence. Since when does an American plead the fifth amendment to whether or not they believe in the peaceful transfer of power?
I think about John Adams. Oh, how I love that great patriot, the framer of the Massachusetts draft Constitution which set forth the model later adopted for our country: three co-equal branches of government: the executive branch, the legislative branch, and the judicial branch, and who defended freedom for all.
John Adams defended the British soldiers who shot and killed Boston town folks on March 5, 1770. Nine British soldiers shot five people as they were being harangued by a crowd of several hundred people throwing objects at the soldiers. Eight soldiers, their commanding officer and four civilians were arrested and charged with murder. John Adams defended them. Six of the soldiers were acquitted; the other two were convicted of manslaughter and given reduced sentences.
I watched the Attack on the Capitol live on television. I saw the tweets, the interviews and the heroes and villains that day. Now I watch the footage of the documentary filmmakers who were with the Proud Boys and Oathkeepers as they conspired to prevent the peaceful transfer of power.
“Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passions, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence.”
On this grand holiday weekend, let us celebrate as John Adams proclaimed:
“It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires, and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”
Nicki van Vonno’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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HAFNER’S CORNER
By David Hafner
“People don’t know what they want- they only want what they know.”
That is an interesting quote and as someone who works to communicate information to large audiences it is a very important reminder for me. We don’t know what we don’t know, and a lot of what we do know is handed to us from somebody else. It is upon the pieces of information that we have been given that we build deeper knowledge and understanding.
What happens when we find one of those building blocks of information isn’t correct? Do we keep building on it anyways, or do we go back and replace that block with better information? There is a biblical parable that talks about building a house on rock rather than on sand. A solid foundation is critical to a long lasting, true ideology.
The Village of Indiantown is headed for its third election and the seats of three council members are on the line. This is the first time Clarke, Dowling, and Gibbs-Thomas are facing re-election and they all have contenders running against them.
It is now for the residents of the Village to decide if they like the decisions that are being made for them or if they want a change. These three elected officials have been in office for five years now and it is important to look over the entirety of those five years when making this decision.
Residents need to go back and review how these elected officials voted on important decisions like whether or not to keep Martin Fire/Rescue or whether or not to follow the will of the residents in giving certain powers to the Village Manager. Just as important as it is to look at their voting records, it is also important to look at how these elected officials have conducted themselves while performing their duties and examine what their ideologies are.
Socially I have enjoyed the company of these three candidates, but politically I often find myself at odds with positions taken by Clarke and Dowling; conversely, I am often in agreement with Gibbs-Thomas with her servant’s heart.
What I expect from an elected official is different from the next person. You can take my thoughts as a building block for your knowledge, but I recommend you go back and watch the videos from the Village Council meetings and decide for yourself who you think represents you and your interests the most.
David Hafner’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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FLETCH’S PERSPECTIVE
By Keith Fletcher CEO & President of
Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County
In the last edition of Friends and Neighbors, Tom Campenni, editor and publisher, made some profound and compelling points about the recently released reading results of state testing scores for elementary—namely third grade—students.
We share Mr. Campenni’s concerns about an overall 51 percent reading proficiency level among Martin County third graders. As usual, he has his eyes on the big picture. Fortunately, there’s also a lot of little pictures that provide greater context—and some encouragement—about the academic performance of Martin County elementary students.
A few years ago, Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County (BGCMC) forged an agreement with Martin County School District that provides us real-time data into the scholastic performances of our club members. When kids arrive at our clubs’ afterschool, they commence Power Hour (study and homework sessions). Thanks to insights gleaned from the data share, our onsite certified teachers can pinpoint each child’s strengths and needs and effectively guide their instructions.
Findings from the data-share agreement also help kids outside of BGCMC clubs, informing the invaluable service of our AmeriCorps members. Participants in this acclaimed BGMCM service program—who’ve pledged to “bring Americans together to strengthen our communities”—station in local schools with large numbers of struggling students and aim to help improve student reading skills.
Based this year at two elementary schools, AmeriCorps members helped:
135 students at Port Salerno Elementary, 91 percent of whom improved from interim 1 level to interim 4.
60 students at JD Parker Elementary, 79 percent of whom jumped from interim 1 to 4.
Such efforts and results embody the spirit of Mr. Campenni’s observation that we “stop trying to quantify students’ ability and spend more time actually teaching the children to read.”
Like so many parents, educators and—of course, students—we’re pleased to see the Florida State Assessment mothballed. While we’re sensitive to some of the concerns raised about its replacement, FAST (Florida Assessment of Student Thinking), we’re hopeful it achieves Gov. DeSantis’ stated goal of primarily prioritizing the measurement of progress.
This practice—noting and celebrating progress—is vital to all children but of special importance to those in our clubs. For the overwhelming majority of BGCMC members, difficulty and dysfunction define daily home life. So, they crave sincere and genuine praise for their efforts and results.
Thankfully, “sincere and genuine” is precisely what every student—whether club member or not—gets from AmeriCorps mentors. Their daily demonstration of consistency, care and commitment earns respect and forges real relationships with the students, cultivating learning and inspiring their best.
When it comes to student reading proficiency, it’s clear there’s still a lot of work to do. But this one-on-one, rather old-fashioned approach—augmented by the technological advantage our partners at the school district make possible through the data-share agreement—is providing snapshots of the positivity that’s possible. And if we can multiply our efforts—through more mentors and expanded school placement—we can help improve even more futures.
If you or anyone you know are interested in learning more about BGCMC’s AmeriCorps program, please visit www.BGCMCmartinorg/americorps or email us at americorps@bgcmartin.org.
Keith Fletcher’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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McCHRYSTAL’S MEANDERINGS
By Frank McChrystal
Residents continuously appear for public comment at the Martin County Commission meeting to complain about the rapid growth. Specifically, they complain about the dense 3 and 4 story projects popping up in district one and two that don’t resemble our Martin County. Time and time again the district one and two county commissioners inform the public that these new projects are being built in the City of Stuart on newly annexed land, and there is nothing they can legally do about it. And unfortunately, this is true.
During the past 4 years the City of Stuart has been the tip of the spear for high density growth in Martin County. The annexation of properties on the periphery of the city has been step one for this unpopular development. By state law, the property owners just outside the city limits are required to start the process by asking the city to annex their property. The city says yes.
These property owners understand how much more valuable their property is, if annexed into the city where building regulations are much more lenient. And if they didn’t, they surely get educated by developers on the hunt for very green pastures. And so, the process begins, the same process used over and over in the third world counties to our south.
The City of Stuart is currently the tip of the spear for high density development and there is nothing Martin County can do about it. Please don’t condemn the citizens of the city. We are also shocked and disappointed with the direction our city has taken the past 4 years. We are not proud of what’s happening.
I hope we all understand how important our vote is this August. We control the future of our city, and our county.
Frank McChrystal’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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Moms for Liberty
Julie Marshall – Co-Chair
Moms For Liberty
At our June meeting, we held a member’s roundtable to discuss our priorities for the upcoming school year. The majority of members felt that we needed to remain steadfast in our goal of attending school board meetings and continuing to ensure that the reading materials that our children are being provided in school were age appropriate.
The American Library Association defines “young adult literature” as literature for children ages 12 to 16. This definition is in direct conflict with definitions provided in the dictionary as well as by the World Health Organization. An adult is defined in Webster’s Dictionary as:
One who has attained maturity or legal age.
A fully grown, mature organism.
A person that has grown to full size and strength; one who has reached the age of manhood or womanhood.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “an adult is a person older than 19 years of age unless national law determines an earlier age, and an adolescent is someone aged 10 to 19 years.” This conflict in opinion is exactly why parents are so frustrated with the array of literature that accompanies their coursework.
Parents are not looking to ban books; they want the material to align with the age of the child. Reading materials that are clearly written for adults are being accepted by the ALA as age-appropriate, and they are not. Just as you wouldn’t hand a 5-year-old child a book on Nuclear Physics, and expect them to understand, they should not be given books of a sexual or provocative nature. This is common sense, not radical thinking.
Educational institutions should not be in a position to undermine family or social values. When parents object to the content of reading material, they need to be heard. In some school districts, parents are being shut down when they dare to read explicit passages during their public speaking time at school board meetings. Thankfully that is not the case in Martin County.
Julie Marshall’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
8
HOBE SOUND LOYAL
By John Sedwitz
“WATER IS WEALTH”
My wife and I travelled to the Northeast and Midwest the past couple of weeks including Philadelphia, Chicago, and the Twin Cities to attend family and friend’s weddings as well as our kids and grandkids. You must be wondering what that has to do with the subject of “Water is Wealth”?
Well, these three cities have one thing in common, each of the cities are situated on either a beautiful river or lake. Philadelphia and the Delaware River, Chicago and Lake Michigan, Twin Cities and the Minnesota River. The water quality clarity was a beautiful sight to see!
That wasn’t all the caught my eye, as we walked the streets of the “old city” of Philadelphia we passed the Museum of Science and Technology. That’s where this profound phrase and signage caught me by surprise!
“Water is Wealth” is such an appropriate phrase for Martin County and all
of Florida! It encompasses the multitude of challenges balancing economic Interests, environmental quality, and human health. State and local governments and its constituents all have a very important stake in this balance.
“Water is Wealth” is essential to successful commerce of our marine, tourism, and agricultural industries. It is essential for attracting visitors and businesses that generate increased tax revenues. It is essential for the protection and sustainability of wildlife corridors and aquatic species. “Water is Wealth” creates a healthy, vibrant economy and healthy, vibrant mindset of residents and guests of Martin County and all of Florida.
The state legislature is in investing in this “Water is Wealth” strategy. It was recently announced that the “Freedom First” Budget will invest more than $3.15B in Florida’s environment and water quality, including $1.2B for Everglades restoration and the protection of water resources. The Department of Environmental Protection will be able to continue their efforts to expedite the Everglades restoration, implement clean water programs to reduce nutrients and ultimately algal blooms and red tide in our waterways, make our communities more resilient, and make land acquisitions to improve water quality.
Budget highlights include:
More than $150 million for Everglades Restoration
More than $557 million for Targeted Water Quality Improvements
$75 million for Springs Restoration
$50 million for Alternative Water Supply
$31 million to Combat Harmful Algal Blooms and Red Tide
$50 million for Beach Restoration
$100 million for Florida Forever
$264 million for Florida state parks infrastructure improvements & resource management
$10 million for grants to local governments
$220 million for Cleanup Programs
More than $500 million for Resiliency which includes:
vulnerability assessment to address risks of flooding and sea level rise to coastal and inland communities, sea level rise planning efforts and
adaptation projects to strengthen critical infrastructure.
We can all feel encouraged by these latest investments in our state’s efforts to restore, improve, and protect our vital water resources. These investments promote and support the “Water is Wealth” strategy.
Learn more about the Department of Environmental Protection at
ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov
John Sedwitz’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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CONSTITUTIONAL CORNER AND OTHER GOVERNMENT NOTICES
And from our Supervisor of Elections:
From The Clerk of The Court:
From the Property Appraiser
Tax Collector
School District:
IF YOU ARE NOT A SUBSCRIBER DO SO FOR FREE HERE
The first letter is from Jeff Buongiorno:
Tom,
If you are fed up with an overreaching, tyrannical government that loots the wealth of its’ people, I am your candidate.
If you are fed up with the grooming of our youth in our public schools, I am your candidate.
If you are fed up with obvious money laundering schemes at every level of government, I am your candidate.
If you are fed up with censorship and state-run media, I am your candidate.
If you are fed up with a 2-Tier justice system and the illusion of two-party governance, I am your candidate.
As your next congressman, I will stand up to the establishment, put morality over money and people over politics. I’ll fight to responsibly grow our local economy, return manufacturing to our district.
I will only pass legislation that brings the people closer to freedom and provides more opportunity.
I will fight to keep our nation and state sovereignty from the WHO, CDC, Dr Fauci and the Davos crowd.
I am Jeff Buongiorno, Conservative Businessman, I am enthused, authentic, and a political outsider who would be honored to return servant-leadership to the people of FL CD21.
Thank you
Our next letter is from Dan Deighan:
tom,
I am poor Irish. I don’t have a right to demand affordable housing in Marthas Vinyard, palm beach, or Jupiter island. try to get over yourself
I wrote back:
Since I didn’t write anything about affordable housing in this issue, I don’t know what you are speaking about. If you mean the column by Rob Ranieri, he is an independent voice expressing his opinion. If you want to spend the time to write a piece with your thoughts, please submit one by next Monday with your headshot.
Rob’s reasoning was thought out carefully and County Commissioner Ciampi discussed it extensively at the last joint meeting. My opinion is that local government can do very little to bring housing to the poor without state or federal programs.
I encourage you to contribute a reasoned piece that is more than a one liner.
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Tom Steele writes:
When you have headlines listed at the top of your newsletter that are links, the expectations is I’ll be taken to that story if I click on it vs. having to scroll through dozens of pages I’m not interested in trying to find it.
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From Robert Hess:
Read the opening paragraphs to understand the coming elections in the state and Martin County. And VanRiper’s Views to see why the Bridge Rd millionaire development community may be a good idea.
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And Lastly Audrey Taggart
I write in support of Jennifer Russell as a candidate for Martin County School Board. Jen brings her professional expertise as a former school administrator to the task.
Jen is a parent in the district who believes that all students deserve an education to prepare them for success in life, an education which reflects the values of Martin County residents.
She is dedicated in the belief that both teachers and students need to be treated with respect and support.
The Election will be held on August 23 at your polling place.
Jennifer is a resident of Hobe Sound (District 3) but, any registered resident of Martin County has the option of voting for her, not only District 3 residents.
Please join me in supporting Jennifer Russell candidate for School Board.
Audrey Taggart
Retired Professor of Education
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Next meeting will be July 12, 2022
TRAILSIDE A SPECIAL REPORT
By Kyla Shay
Trailside HOA President
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
This weekend has been active again at Pal-Mar. The residents at Trailside have listened to the rampant ATV engines racing around the Pal-Mar area morning, noon, and night since Friday. The shooting has been extremely active for the weekend also. Our Board needs to survey the south and east bridle paths for any evidence of destruction or erosion. However, it was not safe. The shooting was too close for comfort in being able to access our own property.
A group of Trailside residents and Board members attended the Pal-Mar Lot Owners yearly meeting for election of the Pal-Mar Water Management Board representatives. It was interesting to witness a remnant of the past.
As we expected, there was a large dissention between the individuals nominated to the Pal-Mar Water District’s Board. Challenges were issued and no decisions were made. The subsequent Pal-Mar Water District’s meeting was again with a large amount of controversy. Special meetings were set up to hopefully deal with their Board issues.
In the Board meeting session, comments were made by a Pal-Mar lot owner. Yes, many people enjoy Pal-Mar. One owner addressing the Board, stated there in an immediate need of talking to the property owners about acceptable behavior. Pal-Mar Water District does not have policing abilities. They depend on FWC and Martin & Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Departments for enforcement.
The comment that a Flak jacket (or bullet proof vest) is needed to visit properties is appropriate with the daily activities witnessed and heard from Trailside. Chairman Bob Berman responded to a prepared statement read from a Trailside Board Member, that Palmar is not doing anything about the ATV’s/ Dune buggies/ Side- by sides tearing up the wetlands. They do not have the ability to police their own. He is of the opinion that these activities will continue unchecked with potentially 5000 different lot owners.
A rebuttal was also done when the Pal-Mar Board discussed illegal unpermitted gates entering onto other properties including Trailside. Zach Gazza responded that others may want them there. One of our board members who was present did speak on this issue.
Trailside was developed as a private, closed community. It is meant to stay private and closed. We do not wish for an entrance to Pal-Mar. We have our own canals and bridle paths to maintain. We do not wish for the liability of others who have no right to access Trailside causing liability issues.
It appears that Pal-Mar Water District has only board members insurance coverage. We did request a copy of Pal-Mar Water District’s insurance policy. We shall see if it is forthcoming. I am relatively certain that no general liability policy exists.
Also reviewed at the meeting was a Pal-Mar Region wetland/ sensitive land survey done by Engineer Bob Higgins that stated no damage had been done due to no activity out there. His report was challenged by Palm Beach County Commissioner Maria Marino. It befuddles me to see an engineer’s report of no damage in Pal-Mar. Perhaps, he was talking about the Pal-Mar Water Districts works, but even those have been damaged. Dune Buggies buried up to the axles on the Pal-Mar Water District Canal banks are an example. When was the last time, Mr. Higgins went to Pal-Mar?
In watching the meeting and subsequent disagreements, it struck me that in addition to being a remnant of the past, wetland & sensitive land protection rules are not being enforced within Pal-Mar. In today’s rules for land in Florida, the property is not developable for residential units.
To my mind, this means the State of Florida and Martin County/Palm Beach County have failed to rectify a disaster in the making. Yes, all three entities have purchased tracts of land and lots within Pal-Mar in the past. However, the process is too slow and cumbersome. With the land prices within Pal-Mar driven to very high levels considering the inability to develop of the area, this process is approaching nonexistent.
This last week upon returning to Trailside, I found an interesting “note” painters taped to our gate’s keypad. I’m not sure how to take it: threat, warning, or a head up about a previous business plan. I’ll let the readers decide. This all goes right back to buyer beware. Undevelopable land is undevelopable land with rules of what you can do there attached.
Kyla Shay’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
PAL-MAR ANNUAL MEETING:
At the annual meeting of the Pal-Mar landowners, it did not take long for the fireworks to begin.
Martin County, Palm Beach County, and the South Florida Water Management District own the vast majority of acreage in the Pal-Mar Water Control District. The seat on the board that was up for election is currently held by Zack Gazza who owns “Be A Man Buy Land.” And that was the first point of contention.
George Stokus, Assistant County Administrator, was nominated by Harold Jenkins for the seat. Gazza decided to nominate himself stating that he has done a fabulous job. When the votes were counted Stokus had 6480 and Gazza 3218. That is when Gazza and Chair Berman began their contesting of the vote. Of course, one contestation begets another, so both Palm Beach County and Martin County did the same.
The legal reasons do make all the difference. And both sides raised their arguments. I would imagine that at some point this is going to court and will be settled there. There will be a resumption of the landowners annual meeting on August 22nd to try to ascertain which votes should be counted.
What I didn’t understand was why Gazza remains on the board if the voting for that seat is contested. If I were Palm Beach and Martin County, I would immediately seek to have him removed until the results of the election are known. The district’s attorney cited statute that if a replacement is not found then the person stays in place until the successor is found. That interpretation makes no sense. Since by Gazza contesting the results, he remains in the seat until it is settled even though, if it holds up, he lost by a 2 to 1 ratio.
As an aside, the chair isn’t much of a chair. Gazza seems to run the meeting and I hear no objections from either the Palm Beach or Martin County representatives. There are no rules of order, and it seems no need for any with things just moving along as Gazza sees fit.
And lastly there is a perception from some of the smaller landowners that they are being taken advantage of by the government. There is a fundamental misunderstanding of the district’s purpose. It is a water control district and nothing more. In Martin County, the county is in control of all government functions from planning to law enforcement.
By being on the board, Martin County represents its citizens who are the actual purchasers of the land which was done to protect sensitive lands from being destroyed. Pal-Mar was not a ranch or farm but always a flow way.
The county needs to begin acting as the government and enforce the law. For too long, it has neglected to do so resulting in this mess.
And I don’t blame Gazza for his stance. He has a huge financial interest in preserving the status quo. He is not evil. He is attempting to sell the American dream through his company named “Be A Man Buy Land.”
The difference is Martin County represents the people’s interest which is to preserve a place for native habitat and a water retention area and flow way. Pal-Mar is not a recreational area. It is not meant to have ATVs. pick-ups, and campers crisscross its boundaries. In other words, it is no River Ranch.
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CANDIDATES FOR CITY COMMISSION:
The newsletter asked each candidate to provide a statement on why they wanted to be elected or re-elected. If a candidate did not provide the statement in time to be included, then if their statement comes later, we will publish it as a letter.
Group 1 Mark Brechbill
Mark Brechbill did not respond
Group 1 Campbell Rich
Whoever called it “running for office” never sought election in a small, local race. There is no running. But, there is a great deal of walking through neighborhoods and knocking on doors. This time of the year, that is the worst part of campaigning.
It is also the best part of campaigning because you go door-to-door and talk to the people who live in our town. People care a lot about what is happening in Stuart and they take the time to talk about it. Everyone I speak with says that the growth is too much, too fast leading to way too much traffic. They are right.
Here’s why. In 2019, the City prepared the 10-year Evaluation and Assessment Report which describes how the City has done in the past years and where the City thinks we will be in ten years. In 2020, this report was published and stated that by 2035 Stuart would have 2,560 new residents. The City currently has 2,717 units that have been approved to be built over the next two to three years. Many of these are coming available now. Being conservative, that would imply that we will have over 5,000 new residents by 2025. Almost twice as many as anticipated, ten years earlier than we thought. We need to acknowledge this huge growth spurt and figure out how to deal with it.
I am calling for a pause in new residential approvals that require a Comprehensive Plan change or a zoning change. This is called zoning-in-progress. This is not a moratorium. Property owners can build what their current zoning allows them to build. But they cannot come before the City and ask for a change until the City has considered the impacts of what has already been approved and has the time to make changes to the Comprehensive Plan and zoning code, after full public hearings.
My wife Heidi Rich and I have lived in Martin County for 40 years and in Stuart for 28 years. We both worked here and have retired here. We raised our family here. Our adult son lives and works in Stuart. My sister lives and works in Stuart. I have served on the Stuart Local Planning Agency since 2018. When people say that Stuart is changing in big ways, I get it. I also want to do everything I can to help Stuart keep its unique charm in the face of all the changes our little piece of paradise will be confronting. That’s why I’m “running for office.”
Group 3 Christopher “Doc” Collins
My name is Christopher Collins and I’m running for Stuart City Commission Group 3, because I feel like it’s now or never for Stuart. We see the high density apartments going up everywhere and it’s feeling less and less like home. Traffic is crazy, especially for off-season. I got the official math from the city recently and it makes sense why. Stuart has a population of 16,000 people. Since my opponent took office nearly 4 years ago, commissioners have approved more than 3000 dwelling units, many of which are 1/1 apartments. I’m not happy and most of you aren’t either. If we don’t protect what makes Stuart special, we are going to lose it.
One July 2020 policy change I find particularly disastrous is counting dwelling units under 900 sq ft as .5 units of density. With this math and an RPUD rezone, developers can be approved for almost quadruple the density. They can walk away with a green light for nearly 60 units per acre, even though City zoning only allows for a maximum of 29 units per acre under Planned Urban Development (RPUD). And just like that the rubber stamp approves a project that would otherwise be rejected, angry neighbors at the meeting are averted and the best part is the developer pays the impact fees on 29 units. This amendment to the comprehensive plan was approved by the entire Stuart City Commission including my opponent 4-0…incredible. This needs to be undone immediately.
It ultimately comes down to what kind of a Stuart we want to live in and leave for our kids. Do we want future development to look more like traditional single family homes or high density apartment projects?
About me, I graduated from Martin County High School in 2002. I’m married with 3 little kiddos and we have our single family piece of the pie on Flamingo Avenue. I love where I live and I’m not leaving. I’ve owned and operated a chiropractic practice in downtown Stuart for more than 10 years. As a small business owner I hope to bring a private sector level of efficiency and professionalism to the City Commission. At meetings I am consistently impressed with the quality of City of Stuart staff and look forward to serving along side them. Thank you for your consideration.
Group 3 Merritt Matheson (incumbent)
My platform as a candidate and public servant is clear: honesty, transparency, and commitment. I believe in hands-on governance and community engagement. I do my research on every issue and thoughtfully consider the limitations and possible outcomes of each decision. I make myself accessible to the public and seek out feedback from residents on a regular basis. I actively support our staff and outside organizations who are working toward the betterment of our city. Importantly, I am an ardent and steadfast advocate for the restoration of the St. Lucie River estuary.
I began doing my research about the City Commission years before I decided to run for office. What I found was a municipality full of dedicated, hard-working professionals—that had hit a rough patch. There was an ultimately unsuccessful search for a replacement City Manager that was costly to taxpayers and resulted in the loss of several top-level City staff. There was uncharacteristic turmoil on the City Commission. The City was on the brink of selling the Sailfish Ball Fields for private development. It was apparent that there was an opportunity to steer the City Commission toward a more engaged, forward-thinking leadership role in the community.
After being elected in 2018, I kept the promises I made during my campaign at the forefront. As anyone can see, the Sailfish Ball Fields are still public land and in active use. We hired a City Manager who brought decades of experience serving the City.
One promise I am most proud of is adopting term limits for City Commissioners. I pushed hard to get such a referendum on the ballot in 2020 and educated voters about it. The referendum passed handily. Beginning this term, commissioners now serve four-year terms with a maximum limit of 12 years. Imagine if every level of government had term limits.
My platform will always include water advocacy. I pushed for the City to add a full-time River Advocate to the staff, and my fellow commissioners appointed me the point person to speak on behalf of the City about our stance on water issues. The City took an active role in the new strategic plan for how the ACOE* will manage Lake Okeechobee. The City has also hosted multiple officials from the SFWMD* and the ACOE, including the U.S. Army Commanding General for the South Atlantic Division, on immersive boat tours of the St. Lucie River. These tours offered decision-makers first-hand experience of our natural ecosystem and gave the City and other river advocates a platform for showing the vital importance of stopping the discharges.
This spring, I was able to spearhead a Residential Street Tree Program, offering mature, native shade trees to residents to shade public areas adjacent to their property. The first round of 14 trees were planted and we plan to cycle the program through different neighborhoods in the City, focusing on areas that lack shade.
I welcome anyone who would like to learn more about my record to visit my website or contact me. There are always new issues facing our city that require careful consideration, an open mind, and open communication. If there is one takeaway, I hope you remember about me it’s that I’m all in, all the time. Representing my fellow City residents is an honor I don’t take for granted, and I will always do my best to serve the needs of the people first before all else.
Thank you,
Group 5 Eula R. Clarke (incumbent)
As a long time Stuart resident since 1988, I am committed to continuing to serve the residents of Stuart as the Group V Seat Commissioner for the next four years. Serving as a City Commissioner, including several terms as Mayor, since January 2011 has provided me a tremendous opportunity to “give back” to this great community. Recognizing all of the challenges we will continue to face, it is my commitment to maximize all available resources for the betterment of our city. With “Unity in the Community”, we can work to enhance our vibrant City where we live, work, and play in our parks, waterways and neighborhoods.
What does Eula Clarke stand for:
>Transparency and Integrity in Government which are highly essential to successful leadership.
>Maintaining our Police and Fire Departments as an integral part of our municipal government.
>Advocating for Infill Redevelopment and Neighborhood Revitalization using my background in Urban Planning (MSP-FSU) and Law (JD-UF).
>Supporting the efforts to recognize the cultural and historic assets within the East Stuart Community which will bring vibrancy to East Stuart and provide opportunities for community reinvestment and economic development.
>My goal is to achieve economic success through Strategic Planning. Together we can work to maintain our small-town charm and balance new development within our community through “zoning in progress” and other planning tools.
>Stuart is truly special and the Arts, Culture and Ecotourism are great assets which makes our “small town” stand out. I will continue to support opportunities for the “Arts” in our community. An ardent supporter of the Arts Council since its inception in 1988, I have served as a Board Member of Martin Arts.
>As we move forward, there is full awareness that maintaining our “small town charm” has to be balanced with the need for affordable, work force housing, responding to homelessness and utilizing opportunities for economic development. Complex housing solutions may require partnering with the private sector and grant agencies and we can work together to overcome these challenges.
> As your Commissioner, I will maintain an open door policy and listen well to residents to ensure successful leadership.
“Stuart on the St. Lucie” is a place of awesome Charm and Beauty and advocating for Clean Water/ Stop Toxic Discharges and “Adjust the Flow” of Water to the South will be a top priority as your commissioner. Some current community activities include: Board Member- Martin Audobon Inc., and Martin County Boys & Girls Club; Member- Soroptimist, Woman’s Club of Stuart, Stuart Heritage and Stuart Main Street.
“Sincere Service and Passionate Advocacy” is what I stand for … Vote for Eula Clarke for Stuart City Commission on August 23, 2022 -Non-Partisan City Elections!!.
Group 5 William Laughlin
Aside from laughing, the first thought I had when asked to run for a political office was to say, “Yea, NO!”. However, those asking were good people, the kind of people I’ve seen give away their most valuable asset, time, helping our community. They’ve spent countless hours away from their own family and children while helping others. These are the kind of people I feel comfortable calling my friends. They asked not for themselves, but for our community we love. They asked because they knew I had knowledge of what was driving the narrative that would see the charming Stuart brought to an end and turned into just another stop in the narrative’s idealistic urban jungle. For those who have seen enough and would like Stuart to preserve its iconic charm, I am your huckleberry.
It was 1993 when I moved to the Stuart area, accepting a call to teach at Redeemer Lutheran Church and School, moving inside the Stuart city boundary in 1994. It was a combination of great people, small city charm and great fishing that lured and have kept me here.
Stuart had hooked me. Despite some long commutes as I sought to better understand our education system at destinations with the Department of Juvenile Justice and our own public school system, in Stuart I stayed. Having majored in Secondary Education and History, along with a minor in Biology, I’ve always sought answers. Curious to get a better understanding of what drives the events impacting our lives I began studying financial markets in 1994 and in 2009 started an asset management company which I currently manage. The skillset I have developed over these years enables me to see through the narrative disguised in virtue yet intent to see small towns across America wither away and die or if in a strategic location, like Stuart, turned into densely packed urban areas.
The Stuart commissioners have bought into this narrative. Their plan involves building high-density residential projects. We’ve only seen the beginning of their plan for high- density development. The past two years along with their recommended changes to zoning in the Stuart Comprehensive Plan indicate their future intentions. In other words, they intend to bring more of the same. Enough is enough!
For the first time ever, I gave thought of moving. But there are good people here, on both sides of the bridge. There is reason to make a stand. So, I have agreed to run. I do not intend to see our small town shot out from under us. Have you seen enough? If so, let’s make a stand together right here, right now!
Though the candidates are listed by the seat they are running to represent, they are elected by every voter in the city.
STUART CITY COMMISSION JUNE 26, 2022:
Project Manager Michele Berger gave a presentation on the 2013 strategic plan’s progress.
The plan’s goals and objectives are substantially completed two years ahead of schedule. The commission asked that staff begin work on a new plan. You can find the presentation here
For the third time, the tree ordinance that was not previously written clearly enough was passed. During public comment, there was some chatter that it was not tough enough. In practice, this ordinance will make the few projects that remove trees slated to remain end up paying dearly.
People may not realize that most development is done through a PUD agreement. Removing trees that should not be removed is a breach of the PUD agreement. The ordinance makes the penalties clear and substantial including planting replacements and paying into the city’s tree fund for additional trees in other locations.
The city cannot halt the project because of a failure to comply with the tree ordinance. Unless the taxpayers are ready to pay huge sums of money for depriving the developer of their property rights, then this is the correct remedy. If it is serious enough, like what happened earlier this year in North Stuart, that would cost the developer several hundred thousand dollars.
In an earlier meeting that afternoon, the CRA approved implementation of the valet parking program for December through April on the weekends. It will cost $5.00 per car. A row of spaces in front of City Hall will be the staging area after 5 pm. The lot behind the feed store will be exclusively for the valet’s use.
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I was going to write about the two school board meetings that occurred on June 28th. One was a workshop where the board evaluated Dr. Millay. It also included Millay’s own evaluation of himself. The second was a budget workshop.
If I am going to write about a subject, I want to see the same information that the board and staff are seeing during the meeting. My own notes would be sufficient to write a quick piece for a newspaper story. I like to delve into the material and understand the why. For that reason, I often include in my pieces the entire presentation so that you to can see the information.
At both meetings, Chair Roberts stated that the evaluations and Carter Morrison’s budget book would be posted to the district’s website. From June 29th (the day after the meeting) until the morning of July 5th nothing was on the website that I could find. On July 5th I made a public records request for the information. I even asked several times if those documents were posted and if so just send me a link.
I received neither the link nor as of 8 am on Friday (with my deadline at hand) the Budget Book and I have only four of the six evaluations. I could draft the story and highlight the four I do have but that would not be the entire story. Perhaps two board members never completed the evaluations and returned nothing to the district, that in and of itself would be something to know and report to you.
None of the information requested is buried in the recesses of the digital school board vaults. Again, it was promised to be posted to the district website by the board chair. How long should that take? Open and transparent government has an obligation to make the information available in a timely manner.
So instead of reading about the upcoming budget and what the board rated Millay and what Millay rated himself, you are reading a story about not knowing any of it. Sorry.
By the way Martin County in the latest rankings did not achieve the distinction of an “A” District. Realtors you need to stop using that in your sales pitches.
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There was an election in Sewall’s Point but both incumbents were elected for another 4-year term when no one ran against them. I still offered them a chance to let their constituents know what they plan to do for their next term.
David Kurzman
David Kurzman
It has been an honor to represent and serve the residents of Sewall’s Point and to continue for another four more years. My main focus will be the water resiliency projects and septic to sewer concerns. I also hope our town hires a town manager soon.
First, I will continue to support the completion of the South Sewall’s Point Road water resiliency project Phases 2 and 3, as I did in Phase
- This project is necessary to control flooding and cleans the water running into the Indian River Lagoon. Sewall’s Point received 3.5 million of the 4.37 million in grants for Phase 3. I am very optimistic that our town will receive similar grants for Phase 2. Since the recent completion of Phase 1, flooding has decreased dramatically, and residents are not driving through flood waters.
Next, I am working to change a town ordinance dealing with new construction and flooding. Neighboring properties are flooding due to the higher elevation of new homes. Hence, new construction must retain more water on their properties. I am proposing that new construction retain twice the amount of water than currently required to prevent the flooding of neighboring properties. I have been advocating this for the past few years.
Last, I want the residents of South Sewall’s Point to vote on the conversion of septic to sewer once the final cost is determined. This is an extremely sensitive issue with residents in our community and their vote is important. Again, this is another issue I have been working on and hope for a resolution in the near future.
I will continue to advocate for our clean waters and preserve the quality of life our residents enjoy.
James Campo
James Campo wrote:
Thanks for all you do for our community Tom. Since I was elected with no opposition, I will not be using up any of your space.
Anytime Commissioner Campo wants to write something, I will be glad to include it.
SEWALL’S POINT COMMISSION MEETING JUNE 28, 2022
The new comp plan, prepared by Bonnie Landry and her firm, came before the commission for the final time. It was adopted and approved and will now be sent to Tallahassee. It was a long and arduous road with many meetings and revisions, but it is finally done.
The main event of the evening was the flooding on the south side of town. The owners of 9 Mandalay have had sandbags on their driveway since 2019. They have hired Mike Flaugh, a landscape architect, to draw up a plan for the property to retain and divert more of the water.
There is inadequate storage of storm water in the area. As the few remaining lots are developed, more and more drainage and storage capacity are being taken away. The current code requires new homes to store up to an inch. That is no longer sufficient. Even raising it to three inches is only a stop-gap measure.
New homes that are constructed are using fill for their structures to be built upon which is creating new problems for their neighbors. All of this is compounded by the fact that storm water needs to be treated before it flows into the river. The town doesn’t have the right-of-way to build swales and culverts. Existing homes don’t want them either.
Unlike Jupiter Island, which has been addressing the problems associated with being an island for years, Sewall’s Point has not. Then there is the problem of the town not receiving grant funding that they requested that is necessary to create a water management and resiliency plan. Campo would like the staff to have a meeting with landowners and come up with an approach. Joe Capra, the town engineer, will see what is needed to have a resiliency plan.
Campo once again brought up the sale of the town’s lot on Heritage Way. In the past, the commission was split regarding whether to sell or not. The main reason not to sell was the preservation of the oak tree on the property.
It was said by commissioners and residents that to build on the lot, the tree had to come down. Campo said he was on site with Tom Lucido, a landscape planner. Lucido believes a house can be built there without any tree removal. At first, Campo stated that it could be a 4000 sq foot home, but during further discussion, the square footage came down to 3000 and other square footages.
Campo wanted commission by-in for him to go further…possibly even having a site plan drawn to go with the listing. He further mentioned a covenant or deed restriction which would prevent the tree from being removed. Every commissioner told him to proceed.
If the site plan shows that a large enough house can be built on the property that would meet all criteria (including not having any “weird” lines) to accommodate the oak tree, then it could be a win. I am not as confident as James Campo is about the result, but why not give it a try?
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CANDIDATES FOR VILLAGE COUNCIL:
The newsletter asked each candidate to provide a statement on why they wanted to be elected or re-elected. If a candidate did not provide the statement in time to be included, then if their statement comes later, we will publish it as a letter.
Seat 3 Carmine Dipaolo
I’ve given 29 years of service keeping the citizens of Martin County and particularly the citizens of Indiantown safe from crime. I have watched Indiantown flourish and regress several times during my career. Our future will be bright with the right leadership.
In 2017 when Indiantown Incorporated, I remember sitting in Crackers Café” with the usual morning crowd. Bob said, “our taxes will go down, we will have a surplus of money”. I told him no your taxes will go up without the right leadership. In fact, they did.
On the current heading, the Village is on a course that will leave you the taxpayer paying the bill. It will leave “the Village” with only one thing to do. They will raise your taxes and create other income through code enforcement etc. Let’s not forget the village water and sewer, although not a tax but a cost you can’t avoid, you will pay more. Grants sometimes turn to loans, that will eventually be paid by us, the citizen.
But don’t panic, there is hope. The time has come for a change. A return to fiscal responsibility and smart managed growth. Growing this community is good if done for the right reasons, bringing prosperity and a greater quality of life to you, the citizen.
I came to Indiantown almost 30 years ago to do a job. I thought my job was done but it’s not. That is why I stepped up and am going to fight for you just like I did on our streets, keeping our community safe from squander by Village Hall. Your vote for Carmine Dipaolo will bring Fiscal Responsibility and transparency from a proven leader, a community servant and a responsive councilman who will always return your call.
It takes a Village the whole Village, the Village I know, to take back control of our future. I ask you, my fellow Indiantonians to support me by coming out on August 23.2022 and casting your vote for Carmine Dipaolo Indiantown Village Council Seat 3. Together we can arrest the current situation and restore the peoples will.
I look forward at the opportunity to answer your questions and hearing about your vision or concerns in the future of our village.
Seat 3 Anthony D. Dowling (incumbent)
Anthony D. Dowling did not respond.
Seat 4 Jackie Gary Clarke (incumbent)
Jackie Clarke is a long life resident of Indiantown Florida. She attended Warfield elementary school, Indiantown middle school, Martin County high school, and Indian River State College. Jackie currently works for the Florida Department of Health in Martin County and has been married to the love of her life Sylvester Clarke Sr. for 40 year.
In addition to her passion for serving her community, Jackie is strongly devoted to her Christian faith and credit her relationship with God and her family for her strength. My family and I have enjoyed being a part of a caring community whose voice that needs to be heard. Servicing and advocating for the community has been an extremely phenomenal and important part of my entire life. I represent all the residents of Indiantown and not just special interest groups. Village of Indiantown residence deserve to have their voices heard and be represented by leaders who are season in their community, as well as sensitive to the issues. I have enjoyed being an active member of the Village of Indiantown Council and currently the Mayor while working together with staff on some great initiatives over the years. I believe I’m the best candidate for seat 4 on the Village Council. I am running for re-election because Indiantown is my home and I bring a wide range of personal and professional experiences that will contribute greatly to the growth of our town. I embrace the task and counted a privilege to give back to the community. I will be diligent in making sure our Village continue to be healthy, have stability and continuing to build on our Public Works and Waste Water infrastructure for a bright future.
Seat 4 Angelina Perez
Hello, my name is Angelina Perez, a longtime resident of Indiantown. I am married to the love of my life and I have two children. You can catch on the soccer fields at Big Mound Park, or volunteering my time at the schools, or volunteering my time in the community. I love spending time with my family, my twin sister, and my nieces and nephews. I enjoy meeting new people since I am a talker and my passion is helping others. My saying is if I can help you in any way I will help you.
Seat 5 Susan Gibbs-Thomas (incumbent)
Hello, I’m Susan Gibbs Thomas incumbent and candidate for reelection to the Indiantown Village Council Seat 5. What I stated in my successful first run for office still holds true, I am not running against anyone I’m running for someone, the people of Indiantown.
I’ve been around Indiantown my whole life. My Great Grandfather came to Indiantown in 1936 and I’ve lived here for 50 years. The last 19 years I’ve worked at Warfield Elementary School, the 4th generation of my family to do so. My 40 years of Indiantown work experience in construction, agriculture, healthcare, telecommunications, tourism/hospitality and education has prepared me for sitting on the Council.
I’ve had the opportunity to serve as Seat 5 Village Council Member since March 2018 and Mayor from March 2018 to September 2019.
As an incumbent my record speaks for me. I take representing and serving this community seriously and therefore I’ve not once missed a meeting. I’ve proudly served this community with proven common sense leadership. My support for public safety, landowners rights and making sure the public’s concerns and voice is being heard has been my focus. If reelected I will continue to serve this community with the same high ethics, principles, focus and commitment.
I ask everyone to know your candidates. Know the incumbents records, how we’ve voted, what we’ve expressed from our Council Seat and what we stand for. With the candidates stepping up to offer their services to this community for those seats get to know them, their backgrounds, ideas and thoughts on the issues and how they would handle them.
I encourage everyone to vote. Make your voice heard through your ballot. Your vote does count.
I hope you consider making your vote count, once again, by voting for me, Susan Gibbs Thomas for Village Council Seat 5. Thank you for your consideration.
Group 5 Janet Rosado
Janet Rosado did not respond.
Though the candidates are listed by the seat they are running to represent, they are elected by every voter in the village.
WORKSHOP MEETINGS JUNE 28, 2022
Jonathan Paul from Nue Urban Concepts presented the proposed Mobility Plan and Fee in a public workshop format. According to Paul, if the council adopts the fee, then the county will not be able to charge road impact fees.
Currently, the village does not collect its own road impact fee or a mobility fee. In many respects, a mobility fee is superior to an impact fee. It can be used to build such things as sidewalks, bike lanes, and transit. A municipal road impact fee can only be used for new roads within the village. The mobility fee is a better option.
However, one mustn’t be confused between what the village can do and what the county is allowed to do. Both can charge a fee. One does not cancel out the other. For much of the presentation, Paul was suggesting that if the village enacts a mobility fee, then the county’s goes away. That is not true.
The fee is only charged for new development or substantial enlargement of an existing project. If more cars are coming, then the impact fee is supposed to alleviate the increase in traffic. Or at least that is the theory.
At present, there is no interlocal agreement that requires the village to collect the county’s impact fees. That doesn’t mean the developer doesn’t owe them to the county. It means that the county will have to collect the fees themselves. Whether it is a mobility fee or an impact fee, it is usually collected at the time that a permit is issued. If the village doesn’t let the county know about the new permit, then the county will have to keep track themselves. This will inevitably lead to things falling through the cracks especially for new single-family homes not tied to a development.
Mr. Paul and his firm have not had the best track record of substituting municipal fees for county ones. Recently in Palm Beach Gardens there was a ruling that says just that. In that particular case, there was an interlocal agreement, but the ruling was that the mobility fee is not a substitution for the county impact fees. Find it here
In St. Lucie County, the dispute on the same issue with the City of Port St. Lucie resulted in a new agreement that basically was almost the same as the old agreement. The county was entitled to collect impact fees within the city.
Does Indiantown really want to go through the same thing that it did with last year’s fire debacle. At some point, the county is going to shift to a mobility fee. It makes perfect sense to help build intermodal infrastructure. Both the village and the county can collect impact and or mobility fees. It only applies on new construction.
Both sides should negotiate in good faith. The village can collect the county’s fees and even charge the county to do so. There may even be some movement to narrow the boundaries of the benefit district so more of the county fee can be used within and closer to the village. In the long, run the village cannot win taking a hard stand. A little reason goes a long way.
You can find the presentation here
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The next meeting will be June 13, 2022.
Next meeting will be July 11, 2022
In The Spotlight
by Jackie Holfelder
Premier Realty Lends a Hand (actually lots of them!) at 4Cs
Every summer, Gigi Suntum, Executive Director of Caring Children Clothing Children (4Cs), can count on staff and associates of Premier Realty to visit the nonprofit’s store on Jack James Drive in Stuart and sort clothing donations that are left in the 501(c)(3)’s donation bins.
Gigi says their help is greatly appreciated, particularly during this time of year when many of 4Cs regular volunteers have departed for cooler climes.
To learn more about Caring Children Clothing Children and how you can help. Visit www.4cmartin.org.
Photo provided by 4Cs Premier Realty’s Nannette Neeld Walsh, Amy Hammes, Melissa Noyes, Roz DeGraff, Shari Hoffman, Gina Van Pelt Staten and Tammie Mae
Local Women Train to be Doulas through Healthy Start Coalition
Catherine Beaulieu of the Firefly Group shared exciting information with us about a doula program now being offered by Martin County Healthy Start Coalition. Twelve women recently completed their training.
A doula is a trained non-medical assistant who provides physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during, and shortly after childbirth.
This program is designed to serve low-income, high-risk women throughout their pregnancy and the birth process to improve pregnancy, maternal, and infant health outcomes and is funded through the Lichtenberger Family Charitable Fund and Ranieri Family Charitable Fund at The Community Foundation Martin – St. Lucie, along with the Children’s Services Council of Martin County.
Photo provided by Martin County Healthy Start Coalition (Front) Gabbi Nahass, Ashlynn Parrotta, Doula Trainer Darlean Thomas, Lucy Collazo, Tonya Brown, and Doula Program Coodinator Margo Keane, (back) AnnMarie Dearman, Andrea Wallace, Sarah Mahoney, Caroline Van Dyke, Jazmyne Thompson, Miranda Alexander, Alma Bailey, and Hillary
“Doulas do more than whisper a gentle reminder that you are doing well, remind you to breathe, and rub your back,” said Anglica Fereshetian, one of the Healthy Start doulas and a Childbirth Educator. “Doulas remind their pregnant clients that they are superheroes! When I see new families become the strongest and most confident versions of themself through support, education, and the bringing forth of a new life, I am rewarded with the knowing that this family has their own superhero story.”
A second Doula Training Course will be offered later this summer. To either participate in the training program or receive doula services, contact Margo Keane at mkeane@mchealthystart.org or 772-463-2888, ext. 145.
Apply to be in All Florida Juried Art Show by July 31
MartinArts invites artists residing in Florida to participate in its 32nd Annual All Florida Juried Art Show. Selected works will be exhibited at the Court House Cultural Center from October 11-December 3.
MartinArts
This annual exhibition is an opportunity for Florida artists to share their work and creativity within our community and offers $1,000 in awards and prizes along with print and digital promotional marketing opportunities for participating artists
The Court House Cultural Center is located at 80 SE Ocean Boulevard in Stuart, Gallery hours are Tuesday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Wednesday – Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
The Submission Deadline is July 31, 2022 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time
For information, contact Jennifer Hearn at Jhearn@martinarts.org or 772-287-6676.
New Horizons of the Treasure Coast Offers Services to Treasure Coast
My friend Lisa Rymer, Chief Development Officer of New Horizons of the Treasure Coast (NHTC), asked us to remind everyone of the scope of the nonprofit’s services as need continues to grow among local residents.
NHTC helps children and adults dealing with mental health and/or substance use issues with quality, compassionate care aimed at improving the lives of individuals, families and the community… regardless of their ability to pay.
There are nine outpatient offices conveniently located across the Treasure Coast region offering therapy, counseling, psychiatric treatment, medical services, case management, and classes. Inpatient and residential programs include alcohol/drug detox, alcohol/drug 28-day rehab, children’s crisis stabilization, adult crisis stabilization, and a group home.
Photo provided by NHTC Pat Austin, New Horizons Board Director Emeritus, receives a mental health awareness proclamation from Martin County Commissioner Doug Smith.
New Horizons also has a 24-hour helpline (772-468-3909) for questions and concerns, as well as the only mobile response team that will deliver mental health services directly to the child or adult in need day or night at no cost.
For information, to schedule a tour, donate art supplies/school supplies or get involved in helping a vulnerable population visit www.nhtcinc.org or call 772-468-5600.
Jackie is always looking for a good story…you may reach her at: jackieacolumn@gmail.com
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The Governor Has Good Qualities If He Would Just Stick To Them
When Governor DeSantis sticks to just governing Florida. He does a good job.
He is on the verge of remaking the state’s educational system to be much more family oriented. He vetoed SB 620 which would have hamstrung local government’s ability to pass ordinances regulating everything from puppy mills to bar closing hours. Businesses by using the threat of possible lawsuits could have prevented residents from having reasonable regulation. He also signed into law the ability of local government to ban smoking on beaches and parks though it left a loophole for those smoking cigars.
Local regulations for quality-of-life issues are not anti-conservative. Owners have the right to run their businesses in a manner that they see fit unless that right impedes on their neighbors’ rights. What happens within those premises is up to the business owner.
DeSantis when he sticks to conservative principles does quite well in my book. Where he lets me down is when he puts politics over governance. He did that for the first time when he tried to limit private businesses from enforcing their own preferences during COVID.
The market would have sorted out an individual business’ preference for masks or any other procedure implemented within the individual business premises. If enough customers said I won’t patronize that establishment because of its mask policy, then it would have adapted soon enough. Isn’t choice being what freedom is all about?
I also thought picking a fight over Disney’s self-governing district was a petty tyrant response to a private company that did not agree with one of his policies. Disney has struck back by delaying moving two thousand high paying jobs to Florida. It also cancelled its Brightline station at Disney Springs probably because the company couldn’t sell government bonds to pay for it. Conservatives believe that government should stay out of private enterprise and society is better off for it.
Some of the DeSantis “CRT” and “Don’t Say Gay” bills are not anathema to academic and personal freedom. Yet, other parts do restrict individual freedom and are choosing groups to appease over others to single out. You can’t claim to give individuals greater freedom by taking away freedom from others. The more voices heard the better.
We have become a country of whiners. Some don’t believe that they should be exposed to ideas that make them uncomfortable. Criticism won’t be tolerated. That isn’t conservative but fascist doctrine. Americans are in silos only seeing, hearing and being exposed to ideas they agree with. That is what some of the recent legislation passed is all about. DeSantis too easily falls into stirring up the pot to appease his most ardent supporters.
Governor DeSantis shouldn’t worry about being president. He would have my vote for governor or president if he went back to being a small government conservative. That is the policies I would like to see.
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GET THE WORD OUT
Friends and Neighbors of Martin County is your eyes and ears so that you know what is going on in Martin County’s municipal and county governments. I attempt to be informative and timely so that you may understand how your tax money is being spent. Though I go to the meetings and report back, I am no substitute for your attending meetings. Your elected officials should know what is on your mind.
Tom Campenni 772-341-7455 (c) Email: thomasfcampenni@gmail.com
ARTICLES OF INTEREST
Articles Tom wrote:
From Martin County Moment:
“A Deal In The Works”
“The Emperor Has No Clothes”
From Medium
“School Vouchers Can Prevent School Censorship”
“Christian Nationalism For America Is A Fallacy”
Other Articles:
The Capitolist: “Jeff Brandes’ think tank: Live Local Bill will help, but bigger changes needed to fix affordable housing crisis”
The New York Times: “How To Clear 500,000 Ferel Cats From New York Streets”
Trump’s Indictment
Florida Phoenix: “Statehouses debate who should build EV charging networks”
The Washington Post: “Tracing the power of Casey DeSantis”
GLOSSARY
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
Annual Medium Income (AMI)
Basin Action Management Plan (BMAP)
Best Management Practices (BMP)
Board of County Commissioners (BOCC)
Business Development Board (BDB)
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
Career & Technical Education (CTE)
Center For Disease Control (CDC)
Centum Cubic Feet (CCF)
Children’s Services Council (CSS)
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
Community Development District (CDD)
Community Redevelopment Board (CRB)
Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR)
Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP)
Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
Emergency Operation Center (EOC)
Equivalent Residential Connection (ERC)
Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU)
Evaluation & Appraisal Report (EAR)
Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA)
Fixed Asset Replacement Budget (FARB)
Federal Rail Administration (FRA)
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT)
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND)
Full Time Equivalents (FTE)
Future Land Use Maps (FLUM)
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)
High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)
Hobe Sound Local (HSL)
Indian River Lagoon (IRL)
Land Development Code (LDR)
Lake Okeechobee Regulation Schedule (LORS)
Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual (LOSUM)
Local Agency Program Certification (LAP)
Local Planning Agency (LPA)
Martin County Fire/Rescue (MCFR)
Martin County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO)
Martin County Taxpayers Association (MCTA)
Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU)
Municipal Service Taxing Unit (MSTU)
Not In My Back Yard (NIMBY)
Organization For Economic Co-operation & Development (OECD)
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB)
Planned Unit Development (PUD)
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
Preserve Action Management Plan (PAMP)
Request for Proposal (RFP)
Residential Planned Unit Development (RPUD)
Right of Way (ROW)
Secondary Urban Services District (SUSD)
South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD)
South Martin Regional Utility (SMRU)
State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP)
Storm Water Treatment Areas (STA)
Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
Urban Planned Unit Development (UPUD)
Urban Services Boundary (USB)
World Health Organization (WHO)
Zoning-In-Progress (ZIP)
