Tom Campenni
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IN THIS EDITION OF THE NEWSLETTER
In this edition, we will be re-running the candidates’ statements.
I believe by their own words you know whether they are worthy of receiving your vote. Some of their statements appear to be written by elementary or middle school students. Other statements show a complete lack of understanding of what being elected to the position running for means. Any candidate who gives absolute statements of no or yes on an issue such as development is either lying or ignorant of the laws surrounding private property rights.
There are also a few candidates who did not submit a statement even though asked at least three times to do so. Is it that they are so sure of winning that the votes of the readers of this newsletter don’t matter? Or will their dislike of the newsletter prevent them from taking an opportunity to communicate directly with the voters. In either case, it does mirror how they will govern if elected or re-elected which is not representing every constituent or those that they disagree.
One candidate for Stuart Commission has touted his credentials as a fiscal conservative and watchdog. Subsequently, he has been exposed by TC Palm for his own fiscal dealings as being at best inept. A few other candidates, running with what I consider admirable records, have decided not to speak about their accomplishments but rather to inflame the passions of some constituents who are ill informed.
I am also a bit disappointed with the mailers coming from the Tallahassee PACs. It shows how no race is local anymore. Voters should also be on the lookout for last minute negative mailers that will be arriving portraying a candidate as evil incarnate. Those mailers will also be from nebulous named groups. They add nothing to selecting the best person for these local offices.
Lastly, we have a policy of not endorsing candidates. We did, however, consider making an endorsement in one race because one of the candidates is unfit for office. Yet he wasn’t crossing that dirty campaign line. In the end, we made no endorsement because we continue to believe that our role is to provide the information and let individuals make their own decisions. Friends & Neighbors is dedicated to bringing you all viewpoints not only ones that we agree with. That is why we have encouraged people with differing opinions to become columnists for us.
It doesn’t really matter what anyone thinks except the individual voter. We want to give you as much information as possible so that you make up your own mind with the facts. Take all the clutter and nonsense away and look at the integrity of the individual running for office before marking your ballot.
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In this edition we explore why markets work and how the BOCC made the right decision by hiring Don Donaldson. Carol Houwaart-Diez tells us about the United Way Foundation. VanRiper writes on the school district’s ½ mill. van Vonno explains her fascination with the Marquis de Lafayette. And Hafner extols the 4-H.
McChrystal wants to throw the bums out. MOMs tell us about their first national get together. Kincaid writes on the Martin Grade. Suzy Hutcheson introduces her organization with a short but pertinent piece. We have our government announcements and Letters to Tom.
The government meetings are reported on including Sewall’s Point’s new manager. Kyla Shay from Trailside continues to write about their saga. There is Jackie Holfelder’s nonprofits as well as Final Thoughts on our housing mess. We also have a few articles we hope you read.
Don’t forget to tell your friends & neighbors about the newsletter and make sure they are signed up. I hope by the end of the year we exceed 30,000 people on our email list. The more the better so that the politicians know that someone is watching, and more important people are reading about what is going on in our county.
Have a good time delving into this edition.
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BOCC HAS THIS RIGHT
I read recently in the Stuart News that the BOCC should not have hired Don Donaldson as county administrator because they hadn’t gone through a search process for the job.
Mr. Donaldson has worked for the county for over 26 years in several positions including for the past 5 years as deputy to the last administrator. He certainly is a known entity to the commissioners who gave him the top job. Unless this leopard changes his spots, Martin County has an administrator that they know well.
There is much to be said about going outside the bubble to find talent. You have a different perspective when you have worked other places. There is truth to the saying that “a new broom sweeps clean” and sometimes that is necessary.
I don’t know why it would be necessary to sweep the county building clean. Taryn Kryzda, the recently retired administrator, worked for the county for 35 years in a variety of positions and was the longest serving Martin County administrator. Under her leadership, the county was well run.
The commissioners wanted a known quantity and in Donaldson they have what they asked for. Martin County commissions are known for promoting from within and for a county like ours, that is generally a good thing. Starting from scratch with a new boss and an existing staff fails two out of three times. Just ask the City of Stuart and their pick before David Dyess, a guy from the Midwest. Dyess has worked for the City of Stuart for over 30 years rising through the ranks to police chief before city chief.
Donaldson comes with the advantage of knowing all our unique players. He can pick up the phone and know just who to call to get an outcome or some advice. Martin County is a small intimate place and most want to keep it that way. From development to even whether to have tennis or pickle ball courts, residents want to keep things the same as much as possible.
Could we have attracted a hot commodity…probably not. We wouldn’t pay enough to do that, and the commissioners would not have been as happy. We are not settling for Donaldson but rather promoting someone who has been groomed the past 5 years and is experienced in what it means to be at the center of this government.
At some point, I will probably write about a bad decision Donaldson has made when he does something I don’t think was correct. That doesn’t mean he isn’t the right person for the position. The commissioners could have searched the country for Kryzda’ s replacement. They would probably have hired an outside recruitment firm (just as the City of Stuart did) to handle the process as inhouse staff have neither the time nor expertise to manage a national search. And is it a good idea to entrust staff to find their next boss?
Would we have found a better candidate? Maybe but that person would have taken six months to a year before knowing who everyone was and finding the bathroom. I don’t always agree with the commission, but in this case, it was the right decision.
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DID I HEAR THAT CORRECTLY?
When did ignorance become an asset in politics?
At the NAACP candidate forum, it appeared the lack of involvement in our community was being touted by challengers as an asset. It was rather amazing that being a “Know Nothing” could be touted as a valid credential when running for office. It was as if these challengers knew anything about the positions they were running for, it would be disqualifying.
On top of that, it seems that most never bothered to do volunteer work. They didn’t participate in any community event, read a book to a kid, or join a nonprofit board. Not being able to be charitable toward others must be a new virtue. Many professed to be church goers yet it didn’t look as if they were very Christ-like in their attitude toward our Martin County brothers & sisters.
As to government, until they decided to run, they never volunteered to be on an advisory board. They took no interest in government or spoke at a meeting on any subject. Have they looked at the budgets of these government organizations? If elected, they will make decisions that ultimately result in spending millions of dollars of taxpayer money. How can you be a responsible shepherd if you don’t know or tend to your flock?
Don’t let facts get in the way of the politics. We should be used to the 21st century “Know Nothings” that are in our midst. They don’t know how government operates. They don’t know what the law allows them to do in office. They don’t know how their elected bodies work. And it seems they don’t care. Is this what we want?
I would rather have someone knowledgeable…someone who has taken an interest in our community. I want a person who has been involved with nonprofits and supported our community by having helped the people they are representing. I need a candidate that has taken the time and volunteered to be on a government board or has spoken at a meeting. Someone who understands the issues.
Electing “Know Nothings” will get you nothing. I will vote for the candidate that understands the duties, responsibilities, and limitations of the office they are running to win. Candidacy should be for people who have demonstrated a commitment to the community…not just a desire to be called commissioner.
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MARKETS ARE EASY TO UNDERSTAND
A market economy is easy to understand.
It is all about supply and demand. If I have the only waterhole in a desert, I can name my price for people to come and have a drink. If I am a community-minded person, I can set my rate so that I make some money, but my neighbors can still afford to pay for this life sustaining commodity. If I charge too much, my neighbors may take drastic action and take the waterhole away from me and declare it community property. Or they can form a water district and say to me that I can charge for water but at a regulated price.
A person’s labor is a commodity. If I am looking for someone who can dig more wells so I can sell more water, I am going to be looking for people that excel at digging wells. If that person is a big muscular worker, he should be paid more than the person who may be able to dig a hole but not do it with the same expertise as the muscular worker.
When I negotiate with my well digger extraordinaire, the well digger will figure his labor is worth “X”. I may think it is only worth “Y”. At some point, we will come to a deal that to the well digger will look like “X-Z”. To me the deal will be “Y+Z”.
After a time, the well digger may go to his friends and say, “I am a great well digger. I need to be paid more.” The friends may agree and state, “Yes, you deserve more. Without you there would be no water and the owner won’t be able to make any money.” And so, the labor dispute begins.
When the well owner posts a sign that says water will be ten cents a gallon more, then the customers, who are the friends of the well digger, complain that they can’t afford to pay any more for water. The owner goes back to the digger and tells him that his friends & neighbors don’t want to pay more, so I can’t pay you more.
The well digger still complains, the friends & neighbors who are also the customers nod in sympathy but still refuse to raise the rate they pay for the commodity. The well digger has options…he can move on to a new community, or stay and change occupations, or continue to complain about his ill treatment while digging the well.
Now substitute teachers for well diggers, taxpayers for friends & neighbors, the school board for the well owner, and education for water. What you have is what I wrote in the last newsletter that some have criticized me for. Providing an education is like any other commodity. It is worth what the public will pay and not a cent more. Complaining may get you sympathy from your friends & neighbors, but it won’t get you any more money from them.
If teachers went away tomorrow, then the board and your friends & neighbors could decide the commodity of education deserves more money. Teachers need to decide what they are worth in this marketplace, and then not work for anything less.
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OTHER OPINIONS
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NON-PROFIT PERSPECTIVE
By Carol Houwaart-Diez
United Way of Martin County President-CEO
As we approach the end of summer and wrap up our family vacations, I wanted to highlight a lesser-known part of the United Way of Martin County. Our United Way is fortunate to have a separate foundation – the United Way of Martin County Foundation.
The Foundation’s purpose is to build assets so that when new needs arise in Martin County, United Way is positioned to help our community respond. As an organization that has served Martin County for 50 years, the needs in our community continue to change as the community changes. There will always be individuals in every community who struggle to afford their basic needs – food, shelter, and clothing.
Those are programs that United Way will always support. However, in recent years, we have added new programs to meet the evolving needs of Martin County residents, including mental health, reading programs, and programs helping our homeless population.
We have many generous donors in our community who want to support the United Way in perpetuity. The United Way of Martin County Foundation allows philanthropists to build their legacy and extend their tradition of community responsibility beyond their lifetime through commitments in their will or trust, endowments, and other planned gifts. The foundation “officially” launched an endowment campaign last fall as we were entering our 50th Anniversary celebration year. What better time to launch our ambitious campaign than during our celebratory year?
Our endowment campaign started with almost $6 million in cash and investments. Our ambitious goal is $13 million in cash and investments. Once we reach this amount, the interest generated from this endowment will provide a minimum of $500,000 annually in funding to local programs in perpetuity. That would be an additional $500,000 to invest in programs that improve the lives of the residents right here in Martin County.
We accept gifts in many ways, from outright cash gifts, to bequests, IRAs, life insurance, crypto coin, donor-advised funds, wills and more.
Since we launched the official campaign, we are already more than halfway to our goal! Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could reach our goal in the next two years to begin to invest that $500,000 in programs and services that are making an impact every day in the lives of our friends, neighbors, and family in our community?
We want to thank all the donors and corporations who have already made a gift or commitment to support the endowment campaign. For those who would like to join me and so many others in making a lasting impact right here in Martin County, please call our office at 772-283-4800 or visit www.UnitedWayMartin.org/Foundation to learn more.
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
Call me Scrooge!
I cannot fathom that the Martin County School District has turned an “older” school bus into a mobile cafeteria for kids from 2 to 18 years old so they can eat for free during the summer. This, because these kids supposedly cannot get to the schools which would give them free meals even during summer. So, by all means, let us turn a school bus into a diner and take the free meals to them.
Nine out of twelve elementary schools in Martin County are Title One schools. That means they receive federal funds to provide free and reduced lunches when school is in session. Two of three high schools in Martin County are Title One schools.
Many questions have not been answered in the video which you can see online here
Such as was the school bus so old that it was taken out of service. How much does a school bus cost anyway? Will this bus be returned to regular service during the school year? Or will it just sit there requiring maintenance until it resumes its specialized task next summer?
Has this program been approved for summers in perpetuity? Who paid for the extensive transformation of the bus? Did the company which performed the bus make over donate the service? Two-year-old children are NOT of school age. Why are we feeding them? Are these kids means tested? Whose checking?
Who is paying for the bus driver, the food, the gas, the insurance?
Do we really need this “service”? As of April, 2022, Martin County’s unemployment rate was 2.0%!
The most current stats I could find regarding the economic situation in our county come from the US Census of 2020. The median household income (in 2020 dollars) between 2016-2020 was $65,821. Per capita income (in 2020 dollars) was $43,758. The percent of persons in poverty was 11.1%. In a recession and facing 9.1% inflation, which could very well result in dreaded stagflation, where does our charity end?
Let us not forget that there was a federal program that provided children with free meals throughout the pandemic. By the way, school lunches even if you must fork out the dough are still the best deal in town at only $1.85 for kindergarten through 5th grade and $2.10 for 6th through 12th.
**BONUS** The Martin County School District will pay for all students to eat free the first 3 days of school (August 10-12). Just sayin’.
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
Somewhat, Some Place, Still Us
There is no place in the United States untouched by a brash 19-year-old French teenager.
I have been on a Lafayette binge. After several George Washington tomes, I read a wonderful historical novel “The Women of Lafayette Chateau” by Stephanie Dray. Now Sarah Vowell, American commentator and history nerd has turned her gaze on the boy General.
Moscow, Russia – September 04, 2017: A stamp printed in Upper Volta (Burkina Faso), shows George Washington and general Lafayette, series “American Revolution Bicentenary”, circa 1975
I am a big Sarah fan, having read “The Wordy Shipmates’” “Take the Cannoli: Stories from the New World,” and “Unfamiliar Fishes.” Sarah’s book “Lafayette in the Somewhat United States” was just featured on Rick Steves’ travel show.
He came to fight for freedom, as a volunteer. Lafayette evaded his family who forbade him to embark on such a fool hardy quest. The Continental Congress was dubious, but Ben Franklin said, the kid might be of some use and, hey the price is right.
Lafayette’s involvement in our country helped forge a new type of government. Luckily, we inherited a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary system from Britain. The ability to self-govern was practiced in all the colonies under the governments created in the colonies. We do then what we do best: tinker and bicker and complain about regulations and taxes.
France was governed by an absolute monarchy. When the French Revolution came, it was mob controlled: Lafayette’s own family barely survived. Lafayette was imprisoned for five years by the Austrians and his wife refused medical treatment so that she could remain in prison near him.
His son, George Washington Lafayette was shipped to the Washingtons at Mount Vernon to protect him. Eventually Lafayette was freed, but his wife’s mother, grandmother and sister are among the 1,306 people who lost their lives to the guillotine.
In 1824 Lafayette came to the United States, greeted by 80,000 people when he arrived in New York City. He visited all 24 states. In Philadelphia Lafayette reminded the crowd that a band of wise and devoted patriots declared independence founded on the unalienable rights of man. He toured the country to great fanfare, accompanied by dozens of locally produced ditties sung to commemorate his visit. Wikipedia cites hundreds of cities, counties, squares, roads, schools and parks; many dedicated to him after the1824 trip, and or for other important milestones in American-French relations.
Next time you travel, note the number of places called Lafayette and Fayette dotting our landscape like red, white, and blue sprinkles on a fabulous birthday cake.
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
The new school year is upon us!
Students will be returning to the classrooms to increase their knowledge base in subjects like mathematics, science, and literature. They will also be building important social skills, including listening, communicating, and cooperation. Both the knowledge and social skills will be instrumental in these students leading a successful life both outside of and after school.
What if the learning didn’t need to stop in the classroom? What if there was a way to take classroom lessons and apply them to real world situations? Good news, there is! There are many great organizations for our youth to join in Martin County, but I have personal knowledge of one that I would like to share with you- the Martin County 4-H Association.
4‑H is a program delivered by Cooperative Extension- a community of more than 100 public universities across the nation that provides experiences where young people learn by doing. For more than 100 years, 4‑H has welcomed young people of all beliefs and backgrounds, giving kids a voice to express who they are and how they make their lives and communities better. 4-H has an enrollment of nearly 6 million members who live in urban (1.8 million), suburban (1.6 million), and rural (2.6 million) communities.
4-H operates on the pillars of Civic Engagement, Healthy Living, and S.T.E.M.
Civic Engagement can manifest in learning to be confident in public speaking. In my club we start by asking members to come forward and just share something that is on their mind. We also meet with our elected officials locally and in Tallahassee and share with them our 4-H experiences.
Healthy living can be taught in visiting a farmers’ market and then making a meal with the ingredients purchased at the market. My club has made fresh salsa, for example. We have also had House of Hope come and teach us how to grow our own microgreens.
S.T.E.M. is science, technology, engineering, and math. A big example of this being applied is the livestock projects seen at the Martin County Fair each year. What you see at the fair is the result of months of hard work, calculated decisions, and record keeping. Another example of S.T.E.M. in 4-H is the world renowned S.P.A.M. Robotics Team; yep, they are a 4-H club, too.
There are so many practical applications for lessons taught in 4-H, but my favorite is cooperation. 4-H to me is offering a hand up to the person behind you to make sure no one is left behind. I am an alumnus of Martin County 4-H, I am a Martin County 4-H volunteer and club leader, and I am a member of the Martin County 4-H Advisory Committee because I believe 4-H is an organization that is building- today- a better tomorrow and a better community for all of us.
To learn more about Martin County 4-H and to sign up for the 2022-2023 4-H year visit: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/martin/4-h-youth-development—martin/
David Hafner’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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McCHRYSTAL’S MEANDERINGS
By Frank McChrystal
Shocker!! TC Palm has endorsed the incumbent city commissioners.
As usual, they played the “experience and knowledge of city government” card, as if that was some sort of rocket science, for their predictable choices. And of course, they painted the challengers as country bumpkins, fresh off the turnip truck. Everyone needs to watch the interviews on YouTube in order to judge who is spinning who, for themselves.
Speaking of country bumpkins; have you watched a city commission meeting lately? There is not much IQ there when you turn up the headlights just a little. It’s not a good look when the city attorney and city manager consistently address the commissioners like schoolchildren. At times it’s downright comedy worthy of a huge belly laugh, if it wasn’t so sad and serious.
T C Palm assumes you are not engaged and too lazy to research and figure things out for yourself. Our once hometown paper is now a corporate rag that receives its marching orders from the globalist elite intellectuals. That is the signal, not noise, that tells you everything you need to know about T C Palm’s endorsements.
These elites know what is best for us as a community and their “one size fits all” game plan is the same everywhere. We, the country bumpkins are not bright enough to know what is best for us and our “sustainable” future.
“We the people” are pissed. Let’s get out and vote like the country bumpkins we are assumed to be. Let’s vote with the pragmatic wisdom of hard-working Americans who love their country, one hometown at a time.
This wisdom has been justly earned and passed from generation to generation. Keep it simple. It is. Look around and believe what you see. It cannot be denied. If you like our direction of the past two years, then vote. If you don’t like the changes of the past two years, then vote. Vote!
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
In the month of July, Moms for Liberty did not hold a member meeting. Instead, 5 members traveled to Tampa for the First Annual Moms for Liberty National Summit, July 14 through July 17. Anyone who wished to attend was invited, it was not limited to members only. Below is the link for the program:
Chapter representatives came from as far as Hawaii to spend time listening to keynote speakers as well as attend breakout sessions covering a variety of topics.
Friday morning Governor Ron DeSantis kicked off the Moms for Liberty Summit. The Governor addressed the 500+ crowd and discussed how important it is for parents to make the best decisions for their children without interference from the government. School choice must be available for all children.
Following the welcome from the Governor, we heard from a Parental Rights Panel with FL Rep Erin Grall (Sponsor Parental Bill of Rights), Rep Joe Harding (Sponsor Parents Rights in Education) & Jeff Childers of Coffee and Covid fame. They discussed how the coronavirus impacted learning and what events led to the framing and development of the Parental Bill of Rights and the Parents Rights in Education.
After hearing from the panel members, we were invited to attend a variety of breakout sessions led by: Marilyn Muller, Debra Tisler, Erika Donalds (Optima Foundation), January Littlejohn, Patti Sullivan (Parental Rights FL), Jay Richards (Heritage Foundation), Kimberly Hermann (Southeastern Legal Foundation), Braden Boucek, Adam Coleman (Wrongspeak Publishing), Max Eden (American Enterprise Institute) & Deb Filman.
During lunch, we heard from Senator Rick Scott and school security advocate Ryan Petty, whose daughter was murdered during the Parkland shooting. He explained how instrumental then Governor Scott was in formulating the safety bill that won bipartisan support.
In part, new restrictions on gun purchases in the state were made, and it raised the minimum age for purchasing firearms from 18 to 21. The measure also allows certain trained school employees to carry concealed handguns on school campuses and creates new mental health programs for schools.
Dr. Ben and Candy Carson were featured on Sunday morning. Married for 47 years, with 3 boys, Dr. Carson stressed the importance of education, and how his mother insisted that he be educated so that he could aspire to his dream.
It was an incredible and worthwhile experience.
Julie Marshall’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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KEEP MARTIN BEAUTIFUL
By Tiffany Kincaid
Executive Director
Martin Grade: A Precious Treasure in Need of Care
As you leave Palm City heading west on State Road 714, about seven miles west of I-95, it feels as though you are being transported into a different world. Time slows and you suddenly enter a beautiful tunnel of trees. Thick branches and leaves block out the sweltering sun, and beams of sunlight peak through and speckle the roadway.
You are driving along Martin Grade Scenic Highway, known simply to locals as “The Grade.” It’s an extraordinary stretch of road lined with a canopy of old growth live oaks, sabal palms, and slash pine.
The Grade is an environmental treasure.
This 12-mile roadway connects our coastal urban area to the western agricultural lands of Martin County and is a breathtakingly beautiful piece of Old Florida. The ages of the trees are estimated to be between 60 and 80 years old, with some specimens dating back to the early 1900s!
In more recent years, invasive and exotic species have grown thick along the Grade and must be removed. Sadly, some of the trees are dead or dying and need to be safely replaced. The entire canopy is in intense need of a multi-year preservation program so we can preserve it for our continued enjoyment now and protect it for future generations.
A Bit of Background.
This wouldn’t be the first threat the Grade has overcome. In 2011, there was a call to widen
the road, which would have effectively destroyed the canopy.
Environmental activist and former Martin County Commissioner Mary Dawson, along with her son Rob, stepped in to protect the precious trees. They created Sustaining Community Lands, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to obtaining the Florida Scenic Highway designation for the Martin Grade Highway. However, gaining this status didn’t guarantee total protection of the trees; only garnering community support could do that.
In 2015, the Dawsons’ tireless work finally paid off when State Road 714 was officially designated the Martin Grade Scenic Highway, joining 26 other scenic highways scattered across the state. This moment was a great milestone and cause for celebration, but Dawson and her team knew the work was far from over.
Keep Martin Beautiful becomes caretaker of the Grade.
In 2018, the Dawsons passed the torch to Keep Martin Beautiful to continue to lead the charge to preserve the Martin Grade and protect the trees. Our community has worked for decades to care for this treasure, and we take very seriously our goal of preserving the gift that nature has placed into our stewardship.
Keep Martin Beautiful is developing an action plan for the Martin Grade, including seeking more grassroots support as well as the funding necessary to save and replace the trees within the canopy. Here are some ways you can help:
Like the Martin Grade on Facebook and follow along as people share their beautiful images of the roadway.
Give yourself the gift of a life-affirming ride through the Grade and safely take a photo of the road and post it on Facebook.
If you live along the Grade, reach out to me at tiffany@keepmartinbeautiful.org to stay updated on the progress we’re making and ways to be more involved.
Visit our website at keepmartinbeautiful.org/martin-grade-scenic-highway for more info.
As always, thank you to everyone who is already doing their part to Keep Martin County Beautiful!
Tiffany Kinkaid’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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HELPING HAND
By Suzy Hutcheson
CEO Helping People Succeed
When asked by Vicki Davis, Martin County’s Supervisor of Elections, if I would be willing take part in a training video for our poll workers – it was a resounding yes!
As American citizens we have the privilege and significant responsibility of voting. As we vote, we collectively voice our opinion about how we want our country to be run. The decisions that our elected officials make impact every facet of our lives.
Many adults with intellectual disabilities are able make informed choices. They just need a little support to ensure that they can appropriately take part in the voting process. One of those individuals, the major star in the video, is Trish Overton.
I was proud to be asked by Vicki to be a part of this very important message. I am equally as proud of Trish. She did a fantastic job. Just click on the link below to meet her and learn her story.
Suzy Hutheson’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BOARD BENT
By Joan Goodrich
CEO BDBMC
Joan Goodrich from BDB[/caption]
Confession: My resolve to achieve many of the personal goals I set on New Year’s Eve melted away—like so many things this sweltering summer. (OK, another confession, much of my resolve vanished well before the summer heated up.)
Professional goals, however, are another matter. At the Business Development Board, we’re proud to say we’re well on our way to accomplishing one of the key goals we set late last year. Much of our success is due to our Board members, economic-community partners and new leaders engaging with the BDB.
We’re especially happy to report that our goals are producing positive outcomes for local employers and the county’s economy.
Last January, we shared in this column our plans to meet onsite with the owners of 75 local businesses in what we call “Pulse Visits,” as the meetings enable our group to stay connected with existing companies and small-businesses—the heart of Martin County’s economy.
We set this ambitious goal after reaching last year’s target of 50 site visits. Our next meeting will be the 74th Pulse Visit, putting us in easy reach of our mission.
Each encounter—which have recently included such businesses as Air Burners, Coastal DKI, Hurricane Boat Lifts, Garlington Landeweer Yachts, and the aerospace manufacturer Pace Machine—introduces us to the variety and creativity of Martin County’s marketplace. We gain greater insights into the challenges business owners face—namely in hiring, acquiring customers, budgeting, expanding, and contending with rising input costs that affect us all.
Pulse Visits also allow us to avail our suite of services in helping new and existing business with site selections, accessing talent, understanding the market, and expanding facilities. More than half of our visits result in follow-up and business assistance services.
Pulse Visits put us in a position to work from the onset with the owners of Daher, which recently acquired Triumph Stuart. We assisted with Day One events in which the leadership of the French company flew in to welcome in-person the staff of 400 to the Daher “family” and provide tours of the facilities with county leadership.
To truly know the rhythm of a marketplace as diverse and dynamic as ours, you’ve got to keep in close touch—as if taking a pulse—with the people who make it move. I thank our directors, partners, investors, and professional staff for powering “Pulse” and invite readers to let me know what local businesses we should visit next.
Joan Goodrich’s opinions are her 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
CITY OF STUART
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The first letter is from Beth Ashley:
Dear friends and neighbors,
It is my pleasure to ask for your support to elect my former 7th grade math student, Liz Bernstein, for our Martin County School Board on August 23. Liz is a local graduate of Martin County schools and has roots in our community.
My husband, Ron, and I, both retired Martin County teachers, are extremely vested in the management and success of our schools. Our three children are Martin County school graduates, and currently three of our grandchildren are attending.
Our district’s annual budget is almost a half a billion dollars, and Liz’s educational and professional experience makes her the most qualified to make our tax dollars work in the best interest of our children, teachers, support staff, and schools. Liz attained two degrees from the University of Central Florida in economics and finance, and a master’s degree from Boston University in economic policy.
Her professional experience as an analyst and research economist for the US Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, and as a small business owner, give her the skills for being the best candidate to manage our large school board budget.
Liz also has embraced an open door policy and encourages conversation with parents and community members who want their input, questions, and concerns heard as she works to make our school district the absolute best for the success of our children.
If you haven’t heard Liz speak, I encourage you to do so and I’m sure you’ll be as impressed as I am by her qualifications, vision, and passion for this challenging position. Please reference her website at www.liz4kids.com.
Remember on Aug. 23, please vote for Liz Bernstein: “FROM Martin County and FOR Martin County!”
Thank you.
The next letter is from Audrey Taggart
When we see the work of Jill Biden on her Ed D, we have no option but to be embarrassed by the mathematical errors, grammatical errors, typos, etc. in her position paper – as opposed to a dissertation which must be defended by the applicant to a team of professionals. An aspirant for a PhD must defend his/her work; a candidate for an Ed D whose husband is a powerful politician in Delaware, whose state university granted her the degree, does not.
When we read that “three quarters of the class will be Caucasian; one quarter of the class will be African American; the remaining seats will be filled by students of Asian descent or non-resident aliens.” We must ask, what remaining seats?
Three quarters and one quarter must not equal one whole – in her repertoire.
As a retired college professor, I am perspicaciously aware of the custom regarding PhD s, Ed D s, etc. Unless one possesses an MD, the other degrees are accepted only within their field of professional expertise. In other words, you are entitled to call yourself “Dr.” only in your field of work.
The old joke in the ‘ed biz’ is – unless you are calling for dinner reservations at a popular restaurant.
Most professional settings do honor a PhD but not an Ed D – outside the professional field.
When perusing her work, we see it would disqualify her from a bachelor’s degree. It is gas lighting to consider Jill a “Dr.” under any circumstances.
The media gaslights this topic such that many TV personalities actually believe Jill to be a medical doctor. The media, as the New York Times, follows through by calling famous neurosurgeon, Ben Carson, Mr.
Now that Joe has COVID, he’s lucky Jill’s a doctor!
I leave it to the reader to categorize the media’s prime role in this topic.
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The next letter is from Christi Fuller
Tom, I know you are behind all of this high density growth…SHAME ON YOU! If you want that, go live in Palm Beach! We have worked very hard over the years to keep Stuart special and now the Stuart Commission and you have single handedly destroyed all that Stuart was about! Congratulations! Please take me off of your mailing list
My reply
I don’t know how I can in any way be behind anything. I am a citizen. I am not a commissioner, I am not a developer, a builder, or even a realtor any longer anywhere.
I do believe you need to provide housing for people of all economic groups. If we do not do it within the urban service boundary, we will have sprawl. Putting your head in the sand won’t make the problem go away. In the house that I live in, 120 years ago it was a pineapple plantation and 20 years before that pristine Florida habitat. I am sure the indigenous inhabitants were saying the same thing to the settlers…you are ruining everything.
You either control how growth happens, or it will control you. There are the rights of property owners which everyone believes doesn’t exist unless it is their property. You cannot just make believe that they will not defend those rights. That includes lawsuits and verdicts that can cost the city and county hundreds of millions of dollars.
Where are people supposed to live? Florida is experiencing an increase of 1000 people a day. Our businesses and schools can’t find employees because of the cost of living here. Our young folks can’t find affordable housing. So your idea is what?
Not everyone wants or can afford to live in a single-family house like you and I. I guess they don’t count. So, the next time you go to a restaurant, Publix, or shop, think about where the people working there live and how many hours, they need to work to afford their rent.
You are off the list…too bad but like so much of America today, you cannot stomach reading or listening to an opinion opposite of your own.
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CANDIDATES FOR COUNTY 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.
Stacey Hetherington (incumbent) District 2 Republican:
One of my Dad’s favorite sayings growing up was, “all I want for you is to be better off than I was.” That’s exactly what I want for Martin County. I want future generations to experience the natural beauty I grew up with, while having quality jobs and low taxes so they can call Martin County home.
You have entrusted me to serve nearly 4 years as your District 2 County Commissioner, and I have qualified, by signing petitions, as a candidate for re-election to continue to serve you.
As your representative, I have always prioritized protecting our unique quality of life and putting our tax payers first.
As a third generation Martin County native raising my sons here, I will remain devoted to preserving the character of the small community we have in Martin County.
I understand our challenges we continue to face with our vulnerable waterways which is why I have worked hard to secure funding and solutions to these environmental challenges. The funding secured to complete water quality projects in Martin County has
One thing I have never forgotten is as your representative, I work for you and those hard earned tax dollars belong to you!
I believe in accountable and transparent government. My top priority has always been to have a local government that is fair, truthful and that works for the betterment of our community
Public Safety and Education are a vital part of our community and I will continue to actively support maintaining the highest standards in both in Martin County.
Solving problems in our neighborhoods and on local roads has been a priority and in fact one of the most enjoyable parts of serving as your representative. I will continue to work with our neighbors to protect their quality of life.
For these reasons, I am running for RE-ELECTION to continue my service as your District 2 County Commissioner with balance and integrity.
I would appreciate the opportunity to continue to earn your support.
Together we can continue to keep this community the greatest county in Florida to live, work and play.
T.J. McGowan District 2 Republican:
Did not respond.
Sarah Heard (incumbent) District 4 Republican:
Martin County is different. My goal is to work in the public’s interest to preserve our special nature.
My straightforward platform is to clean up our water, manage our growth, and keep taxes low.
Clean water here is critical to our health, the health of our ecosystem, and prosperity. When I first ran for office in 2002, commissioners were blatantly ignoring our deteriorating water quality. I championed the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) South Plan, our portion of Everglades Restoration, and the IRL South Plan became one of the first federally authorized Everglades Restoration projects. Since then, hundreds of millions of federal and state dollars have been spent in Martin County to help clean up our waterways. The Army Corps of Engineers’ 2022 budget for the IRL South Plan is $455 million. I won’t rest until our water is clean and the Indian River Lagoon is once again the most biodiverse estuary in North America.
Managing growth isn’t a NIMBY contrivance. It preserves our resources and keeps taxes low. The Urban Services Boundary is an essential planning tool and a legal requirement. Urban services like roads, schools, police and fire protection, and potable water and sewer are all very expensive to provide. The Urban Services Boundary mandates that they are provided only or at higher levels within a compact geographic area. This keeps the costs of these services manageable, and it preserves our western lands for conservation and bonafide agricultural production. Allowing urban development clusters willy nilly all over western Martin County makes provision of these urban services wildly expensive and it forever fragments our environment. Above all, our Comprehensive Plan provides transparent, predictable, and accountable planning mandates, with strong emphasis upon fiscal conservancy. It puts in place proactive policies that require adherence to sound principles, rather than reacting to market whim.
We are at a crossroads here. Development pressures have never been greater. Record numbers of residents from Broward and Palm Beach Counties and New York and Connecticut are fleeing their home in these overcrowded places and taking refuge in Martin County. Developers are putting immense pressure on commissioners to abandon our award-winning Comprehensive Plan to allow urban sprawl throughout our western lands.
I won’t cave into special interests. You can rely upon me to continue to represent and advocate and protect the public’s interests.
Douglas Scott Mustapick District 4 Republican:
We’re created to serve. That’s how I was raised and it’s why I’m running for Martin County Commission District 4.
Born and raised in Tequesta by loving, compassionate parents, I honorably served in the U.S. Marines, deploying to Afghanistan in 2012. Today, I work as a Chief Information Officer for a veteran-owned-and-operated home care agency. Solving problems and helping others are what motivates me.
After Afghanistan, I was blessed to return to Martin County and find a home. But that’s not the case for many people. Over the past few years we’ve seen home prices soar. Many young people who grew up in Martin County and long to return remain shut out due to high prices and limited employment opportunities.
Clearly, we need to strengthen our economy and plan for sustainable growth that protects what makes our community special, but enables opportunities for the middle class. Martin County has thankfully always been home to wealthy families—and they pay a large portion of the tax base. But we’ve also always had balance with room for everyone of various means. I fear that’s slipping away.
My opponent—a 22-year career politician—is best known for saying “No.” She even voted “No” on the last county budget even though it had a tax decrease. Perhaps this was just reflex. Or maybe not. She was the only county commissioner to vote to advance the sales tax—and at a time like this!
As inflation increases and gas prices rise, the challenges we face are serious and require a leader who listens and looks for solutions.
My priorities are simple: God, family, and service over self. If you agree, I hope you’ll grant me the honor of your vote.
Thank you for your time.
Though the candidates are listed by the seat they are running to represent, they are elected by every voter in the county.
The next meeting of the county commission will be August 9, 2022.
TRAILSIDE A SPECIAL REPORT
By Kyla Shay
Trailside HOA President
THE PALMAR SAGA
Over the past two weeks, Martin County Code Enforcement sent out notices of violation to PalMar Property owners.
The county officials started the process in September of 2021, long before Trailside residents addressed the county commissioners and long before our first meeting with staff. Somehow, PalMar property owners feel that their actions are Trailside Homeowner Association’s fault and specifically my fault for being too vocal. If a person is not doing anything wrong or against county & state guidelines, they should not have any problems.
This is not the case with PalMar lot owners and potentially illegal trespassers within PalMar.
The County Code Enforcement issued violations for ponds dug without a permit. Structures built without a permit. A shooting range was cited. That same shooting range is pointed directly within firing distance of Trailside.
We did not ask them to build there. We can all understand they feel that they have property rights. What they are forgetting, is we have property rights also. We have the right to enjoy our property. We have a right to feel secure in our neighborhood. We shouldn’t fear bullets injuring our residents, guests, or cattle.
I have received several telephone calls from PalMar owners who feel that the facts I am reporting are not true. I can assure you they are true. In my first article, it did reference that we are very aware that not all the PalMar lot owners are causing the problems. There are quite a few who are following the rules FWC, Martin County, and SFWMD have set forth for the land.
We have no desire for persons to be forcefully bought out by the state or county. However, in 1991 there was a court decision that stated the PalMar land should be purchased by conservation agencies, SFWMD, Martin and Palm Beach County.
Last week, a group of the surrounding landowners met to discuss what solutions would work best for all of us. In previous discussions, surrounding landowners are having their fences cut, their gate locks cut, and persons are trespassing on their property.
Other landowners have had their land cleared and/or fill added by persons who think the land is theirs. Cattle are being harassed and harmed when the gates are cut by trespassers with their dogs illegally hog hunting on private property. These actions are what we all need to see stop. These are trespassers who simply do not care that the property is not theirs. They are infringing on the right of adjacent lot owners to farm their land and raise cattle.
It would be nice to see FWC and the Sheriff’s department set up check points on all access to PalMar checking that each truck entering and leaving PalMar has a right to be there by way of their land deed and FWC permit.
We do hope for a solution soon. Steps are being made in the right direction. We would like to not live in fear. We would like to have our quiet neighborhood without hearing all the ATV’s and Side-By-Side’s tearing up the wetlands.
It would be nice to go back to the time when PalMar was a place where only PalMar lot owners went and quietly went about their business.
Kyla Shay’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.
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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)
Eula Clarke
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 COMMISSION MEETING JULY 25, 2022
Martin County, Stuart, and our residents have had a long, torturous history with Witham Field.
Would you build Chicago’s Midway Airport, which stands in the middle of a city in its location today? Probably not. The same can be said for Witham Field in the middle of Stuart. I would imagine that the largest number of resident complaints have their origin in the noise from the airport. It appears to me that, during season from Thursday evening until Monday morning, a large number of flights pass over the top of my house.
But like Midway, Witham isn’t going anywhere. While there are no general commercial flights from the airport, the number of charters and private planes are nothing to sneeze at. For the county’s coffers and the convenience of our more affluent residents, Witham is an attraction that keeps them happy. And that is not to mention the benefits of Customs and Immigration that makes it easier to clear Bahama boat and air passengers.
The county began the study regarding airport noise back in 2004. The presentation by Airport Manager Sam Carver, Assistant County Administrator George Stokus and their consultant had to do with what is called an update on “Part 150-Noise Exposure.” The FAA uses a DNL metric which is the Day-Night average sound level that a person is exposed to in a 24-hour period. The city uses a 65 dB contour while the county uses a 60 dB contour.
The county wants the city to accept a lower rate. If they do, the county will then provide the homes that would be eligible with improved sound proofing. That would occur in the last phase of the county’s plan in about 5 or 6 years. So, what is holding this up?
As I said in the past, the city has lost entire streets of homes to the wrecking ball over the airport. There is skepticism over what could happen. The last thing they want is for more homes to be gone. The county is not saying that will occur but perhaps has not given the guarantees necessary to assuage the commission. As Mortell said, “there are lots of moving parts.” However, this will be brought back for perhaps further action.
You can see the presentation here
Stuart Main Street will continue to have another year of subsidies by the city. The organization will receive an additional $70,000, a below-market lease on Flagler Place, and will run the green market (which is a real misnomer) all for putting on events that are really done by an event company which the city could hire and cut out the middleman. The entire point of the Flagler Place discounted lease was for Main Street to be able rent out the event space and be a vehicle for them to pay their own way. Not in Stuart where the grift goes on…at the taxpayer’s expense. The motion passed 5-0.
The commission must have a fixation regarding EV stations. FPL wants to install them, and they have looked at several locations in the downtown area including Sailfish parking lot, the Wells Fargo building, and Kiwanis lot. The question is why.
Electric Vehicles (EVs) will make up 20% of Florida vehicles soon. There will be a great need for level 3 charging stations which fully charge a vehicle in about 20-25 minutes. These stations require transformers besides the dedicated parking spaces for chargers. The spaces cannot be used for just parking.
At a time when the same commission is crying about the lack of downtown parking, they want to take away parking. They will sign a contract to do so for the next 10 years with FPL. Again, the question is why.
If 120 years ago, someone had said that we needed to set up gas pumps on government property for these new motor vehicles, they would have been laughed at and told to rent or buy land and do just that. Today if a food truck vendor came into town and said he/she wanted to take up 6 parking spaces and keep the truck there for 10 years, they too would be laughed at. Yet here the city is doing the same thing with EV charging stations.
Make no mistake, the country will have a preponderance of electric vehicles within the next two decades. Ford, GM, and Volvo are committed to having all electric fleets. The private sector opened gas stations throughout the country when the newest mode of transportation was powered by the internal combustion engine. They will do so again to accommodate EVs.
There will be numbers of current gas stations that will be happy to sell both electric and gas. They will need to do it to stay in business. The City of Stuart doesn’t need to try and do what the private sector is quite capable of doing. Government can hardly do what governments should do. They don’t need to infringe on the free market.
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CANDIDATES FOR SCHOOL BOARD
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.
Elizabeth “Liz” Bernstein District 3
Dear Martin County, my name is Liz Bernstein, and I am running to represent you and our entire community on the Martin County School Board. Growing up here and attending both Hidden Oaks Middle School and Martin County High School, I know first-hand the excellent caliber of our public schools and have a vested interest in keeping them great. I credit them for helping me develop the skills and confidence that have allowed me to be successful thus far in life, and most importantly, they are the foundation of our wonderful community. When I am elected, I will make sure that those same opportunities continue to exist for all kids and promise to return our public school system to the top of the state ranks. A strong, well-rounded public-school system translates to a thriving local community and economy, something all of us should support.
After graduating from MCHS in 2002, I attended the University of Central Florida and received two Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degrees: one in Economics and one in Finance. In 2009, I graduated from Boston University with a master’s degree in Economic Policy. From 2009-2015 I worked as an analyst and research economist for the US Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis. This is important because, unfortunately, all school districts, including ours, are facing budgetary challenges that will require innovative solutions. I am the perfect addition to the 5-member school board and am the only District 3 candidate with economics, policy, and financial accounting background and experience. I have proven my ability to work collaboratively in complex situations and am comfortable with the analysis needed to tackle complex educational budgets. I promise Martin County tax dollars will be used efficiently, and to the extent controllable, promise to keep our tax dollars in Martin County.
Just as importantly, I have a passion for educating kids and an unwavering commitment to service. Education is the foundation of our democracy and I believe it is our job as citizens of this great nation to ensure that we uphold the constitution and the right to public education. This can only be accomplished through a rigorous, innovative public school system with the best, fully certified teachers, parental support, and full local control of tax dollars collected for education.
I hope you, and the voters of Martin County see this non-partisan election for what it is, a job interview, and I urge you to vote for the best, most qualified candidate. Vote to protect our democracy, and to keep Martin County Public Schools excellent for ALL children, vote for Liz Bernstein for District 3 School Board on August 23rd.
Jennifer Russell District 3
My name is Jennifer Russell and I am running for Martin County School Board. I am a mom and former assistant school administrator who cares deeply about our education system. I will be an advocate for students, parents, and teachers. I am committed to maintaining excellent schools, protecting parental rights in education, supporting school choice, and our teachers. I believe that a stronger school system will create a stronger Martin County.
As a mother of two, I care passionately about having excellent schools here in Martin County. Our school system is “A” rated and must stay that way. I would like to see our school system invest more resources into supporting reading skills because reading is crucial to a child’s ability to succeed. We should also continue to expand our career and technical education and invest in school safety.
Supporting school choice for families is very personal to me. While only 10 years old, our son performs at a 7th grade level and therefore has special educational needs to keep him engaged and thriving in school. One size does not fit all, and I strongly support giving parents and students choice options so every family can find the right fit for their children’s unique educational needs.
I also believe strongly that parental involvement in education is crucial to our children’s success. I strongly support Governor DeSantis’ efforts to protect parental rights in education. Our schools should stick to the fundamentals like reading, writing, and arithmetic, and leave the political agendas out. Schools are a place for education, not indoctrination.
Parental involvement goes hand-in-hand with supporting our teachers. Parents know where the child is both mentally and socially. Many teachers are getting burnt out due to behavioral issues that impede the learning of other students on a daily basis. The more a parent is involved in their child’s life and education it will help to cut down on those behavioral issues and make it easier for teachers to teach.
Teachers have a demanding job, and they deserve our support. I will be an advocate for them by listening to their concerns, and making sure they have the resources they need to succeed in the classroom.
Lastly, as a former assistant school administrator and school financial administrator, I believe I have the leadership experience to make tough decisions on the School Board. I made decisions every day for our students and staff regarding the curriculum, hiring decisions, managing employees and operations, and budgeting.
I humbly ask for your vote for Martin County School Board District 3. I am mom, experienced leader, and passionate advocate for education. Working together, we can create a stronger future for Martin County students.
Anthony “Tony” Anderson District 4 (Incumbent)
Did not respond.
Amy Pritchett District 4
I’m Amy Pritchett, wife, mother, and grandmother, running in District 4 for the Martin County School Board. I’m an active volunteer in Martin County, working to help feed those in need at Our Community Table each Saturday morning and proudly volunteering at the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast two times per week.
During the coronavirus turmoil, I became acutely aware that our individual rights were being called into question. No longer were adults permitted to make decisions about their own health and well-being, or that of their children.
I began attending Martin County Board of County Commissioner meetings, as well as Martin County School Board meetings. It was apparent to me that there was a great divide in the community and differing opinions on how much of a role the government should have in our lives. Hearing from our elected officials that mandates were necessary and that parents were not the experts drove my decision to run for office.
My campaign slogan is “Children should be taught how to think, not what to think.” Kindergarten through twelfth-grade education must be void of any political platform. I fondly remember my father telling me when I was in High School that if I knew how a teacher voted, they didn’t belong in the classroom. I believe that with all my heart.
Keep politics out of the public schools and concentrate on the core subjects. Florida’s scores for third-grade reading proficiency are poor; only 25% of students scored a 4 or 5. If our children cannot read, how are they going to grasp any other subject that requires reading? This must be the focus of the public schools!
Public school enrollment is on the decline due to the reasons stated above. Are our dollars being spent to improve scores and strengthen the curriculum? Parents are homeschooling, choosing private and charter schools, and exercising their right to find the best education for their children. Public schools must work to be the first choice!
To attract and retain excellent teachers, salaries must be competitive. Governor DeSantis signed House Bill 641, Funds for the Operation of Schools, and announced the approval of $500 million in the state’s budget dedicated to raising teacher salaries in Florida. $400 million is invested to raise the minimum base pay for full-time classroom teachers, and $100 million is to raise the salaries of Florida’s veteran teachers and other instructional personnel.
Campaigns for public office benefit the most when community members join together to support those who share their values. Please join me by offering your support so I can let your voice be heard on our school board.
Thank you!
Though the candidates are listed by the seat they are running to represent, they are elected by every voter in the county.
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COMMISSION MEETING JULY 26, 2022
Without drama or much discussion, the manager’s contract for Robert Daniels was approved. It was a great deal for the town.
Mr. Daniels will earn $110,000 per year with opportunity for additional increases. He has a town-provided cell phone, car allowance of $400, and more generous vacation than stated in the town policy. All other benefits, including medical, will be like other non-uniformed employees.
The contract is for three years, and he will begin in the 2nd week of August. Perhaps this will be a better fit for the town than the last two managers were. He seemed very interested in being hired. You can see the contract here
Interim Manager Hudson has been more than a caretaker. He has proposed solutions to problems. The problem of localized flooding (not involving life safety) has also now received recommendations. This is in the South Sewall’s Point Road area but different from the road project currently underway.
Some of the recommendations:
- Change town code to increase on site storm retention from one inch to three.
- Include $535,000 in the FY 23 budget and CIP to address this neighborhood.
- Encourage voluntary compliance to increase storage capacity.
- Address property owner associations with their legal responsibilities.
- Review and amend codes to encourage pervious paving.
There have been some discussions in the past and even a draft of code changes. What happens going forward will be dealt with by Daniels. This began in 2020 and won’t be solved until sometime next year.
The lot owned by the town at 7 Heritage Way has been a project near and dear to Commissioner Campo’s heart. He has enlisted Tom Lucido to do a rough site plan detailing how to incorporate the massive oaks into a house design. You can see the plan here
When it is listed for sale, the lot will have a proposed plan attached (that does not need to be followed) and a deed restriction about not being able to remove the trees. Because of where it is located, the lot currently cannot be used as an STA. Unless the town makes it a park, it will continue to be a vacant lot. Sewall’s Point does need to purchase property for storm water retention so the sale will come in handy for the money needed for that purpose.
Unfortunately, the setbacks used were not correct so that plan may not work. It is back to the drawing board.
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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.
BUDGET MEETING JULY 21, 2022
It looks as though Indiantown is living through a classic government situation. The desired expense level is more than the income level.
For the second year in a row, the ad valorem tax is down. That is because FPL’s Personal Property Tax is less than the year before. This is putting a squeeze on revenue just when the village’s staff is growing. It is a dilemma more associated with recessions than an increased property market.
According to the village’s budget presentation, Mr. Brown is looking to add an additional 5.5 FTEs to address what he has described as a profound need. They currently have 30.5 employees including the commission. If hired, the 5.5 new staff members will add $315,866 to the payroll.
The Capital Improvement Plan will use ARPA and grant money only this year. There is no increase in the millage rate (election time). They do anticipate more construction projects being approved which, at some point in the future, will mean more revenue to the village in taxes and fees.
Do they need more employees? With the government they have built, they certainly will. A government that takes more and more functions inhouse, then there is a need to staff those functions internally. And when the largest taxpayer begins to lessen their presence by either not having as much personal property or a smaller property footprint or both, then less revenue is collected.
It is true that the Finance Department is bare bones with just the finance director. The auditor did say that there needs to be a segregation of duties to guard against theft. Given the current staffing in the Finance Department, that would be hard to do.
There has been a 4.5% decrease of ad valorem revenue in 2022 and 2023. Most grants require a match in funding. That makes receiving grants a double edge sword. A popular saying in Indiantown government is that they are building the airplane while flying it. How true that is.
When moving in the direction that Indiantown has, there is a need to maintain a larger government infrastructure just to keep the doors open. This is where the village finds itself today. If development does occur, then their taxes should grow sufficiently enough to meet their needs. They need to hope that FPL doesn’t fold up the tent and depart.
You can find the budget presentation here
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The next meeting will be June 13, 2022.
In The Spotlight
by Jackie Holfelder
Book Depot’s Really Big Kids’ Book Sale
Just in time for back-to-school, The Book Depot is holding a half-price sale on children’s books which runs through August 14.
My library buddy Diane Tomasik gave me all the info. The Book Depot typically prices children’s books — for babies, tots, elementary and middle grades — from about 25 cents to $2, so the half-price sale will make for even greater savings. Furthermore, it also coincides with the last few weeks of Florida’s sales tax holiday on books labeled for children 12 and younger.
Photo provided by The Book Depot
The store, which features thousands of gently used books, CDs, and DVDs for all ages, is located in Building H-15 at the B&A Flea Market in Stuart. Hours are 9 a.m. – noon on Wednesdays and Fridays and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
When you make a purchase at the Friends’ Book Depot, it goes toward vital programs, materials, and technology at each of Martin County’s six public libraries. It’s the primary fund-raising activity of the Friends of the Martin County Library System, which also operates Bonnie’s Books at the Blake Library and other branch library sales.
Over the past 10 years, the Friends has provided more than $1 million in funding to the Library and recently approved the library system’s $100,000 request for the 2022-23 year.
Programs the Friends help to support include The Chautauqua South series, Story Time, Preschool Art, Paws to Read, Story Express Kits, Family Place, Adult Summer Reading, gaming nights for teens and activities in the idea labs that involve technology, crafts and virtual reality, to name just a few.
Book Depot purchases can be made by cash or check only.
For further information, visit www.friendsbookdepot.com.
Bikes Plus Comes Through for Mary’s Home
Photo provided by Mary’s Home
Jeff Maher, owner of Bikes Plus in Palm City, recently showed what a “wheely” great friend he is to Mary’s Home. Vanisha, one of the current residents at the faith-based transitional home for pregnant, homeless women, needed a bike to ride to work. Although there was a donated one available for her to use, it needed some work. Jeff provided new tire tubes, oiled the chain, adjusted the gears, and donated a bike lock at no charge. And just like that, Vanisha had a much safer and more dependable means of transportation to get her to and from work. Sometimes the little things can be just as meaningful as the bigger ones!
A Helping Hand for Employers and Job Seekers
One of the first people I met when I began working at Luminaries was Mitch Kloorfain. At that time, he was a sensational photographer and over the years he’s developed into a great PR pro as well. I asked him to share info about CareerSource Research Coast (CSRC) with us. And while it’s a bit different than the nonprofit news I usually run, it’s a valuable tool we all need to know about.
Here’s what he told me “Without a doubt, the last two years have been a difficult time for employers and job seekers alike. Employers want staff that is punctual and can be trained to do a job to keep their clients happy. Job seekers want to feel valued for their hard work and efforts while working in a field that fuels their passions.
That’s where CSRC comes in. As the official workforce development board for the region, it offers customized recruitment and training solutions, at no cost, to businesses in Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties.
Photo provided by CareerSource
CSRC staff provides the path to employment for those unfamiliar with workforce options. Services it offers are free to the public and designed to provide for successful outcomes. Some of those avenues include employment consultation, recruiting and hosting job fairs, creating training programs with colleges and trade schools, funding abilities for interns and apprentices and programs to upskill existing employees as part of successful retention.
Career Source Research Coast is a community partner with strong outreach activities and access to thousands of potential jobseekers, cooperative partnerships with colleges and training programs and funding resources to assist with training costs and create solutions for employment.
‘We are dedicated to equipping students and job seekers of all levels and backgrounds with the resources and support they need to reach their highest potential, including job preparation, placement, training, and certification programs, and creating internship and on-the-job training programs,’ said Brian Bauer, CEO/President of CSRC.
CareerSource Research Coast is a private, non-profit, Florida corporation with a board of directors consisting of private businesses, economic development and education representatives, community and state agencies and elected officials. The State of Florida chartered CSRC to create and manage a workforce development service delivery system responsive to the needs of businesses and job seekers.
Whichever describes you, plan a visit the CSRC Career Center at 710 SE Central Parkway, Stuart. Walk-ins are welcome. For information call the Center at 772-214-3174 or visit www.careersourcerc.com.”
Successes Keep Coming to Project LIFT
The first time I met Bob Zaccheo, he was working out of a small suite of offices and had one mentor who interacted with Bob’s students: a retired gentleman who taught them boat maintenance and repair. That was the very early years of Project LIFT.
Photo provided by Project LIFT
From those days to being awarded $5 million by the U.S. Department of Labor through the Apprenticeship Building America grant to fund the Community I.M.P.A.C.T.S. (Innovative Model for Pre-apprentices & Apprentices in Construction, Transportation, & Solar) is a gigantic accomplishment. The goal of this project is to increase the skilled workforce for construction-related trades in southeast Florida by expanding pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship offerings at existing and new Project LIFT locations, in partnership with Associated Builders and Contractors Florida East Coast Chapter (ABC-FEC).
“Thirteen years ago, Project LIFT set out to change a system and disrupt the way that traditional mental health programming was delivered to at-risk teens”, said Bob Zaccheo, Project LIFT founder and Chief Executive Officer. “Since then, we’ve worked with almost 5,000 teens and young adults and more than 100 industry partners to incorporate mental health supports in the workplace, provide paid training and employment opportunities to fill the trades gap, and destigmatize mental health through industry. This grant focuses on expansion and complements the philanthropic support that Project LIFT has received from funders and donors who have helped us build a replicable, national model of workforce development that will continue to move us forward.”
Project LIFT serves more than 700 youth and young adults annually, in its Martin, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie County locations. Last year, 87-percent of participants successfully completed the program drug free, and 91-percent of those 18 or older secured employment with Project LIFT industry partners after program completion. For more information, visit projectlift.org or call 772-221-2244.
Jackie is always looking for a good story…you may reach her at: jackieacolumn@gmail.com
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HOUSING IS A CONCERTED EFFORT
I had heard that the Crossings in Stuart was losing its affordability status. That would have been a serious blow to families in the city.
Stuart City Manager David Dyess forwarded to me an email he received from the county’s Housing Program Coordinator clarifying that this was not true. The complex will continue having rent limits based on the adjusted AMI (Adjusted Median Income) until 2044. As the AMI changes so too will the rents. Even with a rising AMI, there are rent caps for tenants.
While this is much better than the apartments going to market, using the AMI may still place rents out of the reach of many people. When HUD was active in providing funding for different housing programs, the rent people paid was more tailored to the individual. That of course has all changed with the shrinking of those programs, which has resulted in the crises we see today.
Using solely the AMI to determine affordability will leave many renters not able to afford their apartments. The government needs to greatly expand the number of families that would be eligible for HUD’s Section 8 program.
Section 8 is a voucher program that allows those eligible to find their own apartment in which to live. The tenant then pays the landlord a pre-determined amount based on their income, and the government sends the landlord/owner the remainder of the rent.
This program worked extremely well in the 1980s and 1990s. All properties are eligible to participate. There were gross rent caps on the funding depending on family size. The Section 8 program was instituted at a time when public housing was failing to provide safe housing. The program became the perfect public-private partnership.
The federal government has all but given up on housing for people who need help. Homelessness for families is one of the outcomes of greatly reducing this type of aid. Can we really expect a few private owners, even using other government-backed programs, to build all the housing needed? The answer is obvious.
There are many problems in Martin County when it comes to affordable, workforce, or attainable housing. Some of the housing shortages for more affluent people can be solved by just building. The more product on the market, the cheaper prices are.
Years ago in big cities, unions and manufacturers constructed housing for their members and employees. This was an attempt to provide “wholesome” homes instead of tenement apartments. It was very successful in combatting social as well as economic problems and contributed to a stable workforce.
I don’t quite understand why the school board and Cleveland Clinic do not investigate doing something like that. Employees just starting out in their careers could be offered this type of housing first since their earnings are the lowest. More and more employers throughout the country are coming to this realization such as the “Teachers Village” in Newark N.J. and “Sea Pines” in Hilton Head S.C. Employers who want to attract good personnel can also provide rent subsidies as a perc.
Progressive has come to mean socialist in our political era. It wasn’t always so…just remember Theodore Roosevelt. Nothing beats the free market for sorting winners and losers. The government needs to be ruthless in not protecting industries or individual companies and enforcing anti-trust laws. However, when it comes to individuals, government has an obligation to provide basic needs…one of which is housing.
The question is will we? The answer would require a national effort. It is not anything we can do on the local level alone.
As Published In Martin County Moment
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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)
