$35,001.72
That’s what it takes to run a campaign in Lake Worth these days. The City Clerk just sent Dave Vespo’s final T-Report. Unbelievable when you think that the job pays less than $15,000 a year which includes the expense account.Cornerstone Solutions and Communications, LLC (Cornerstone Solutions), a public relations consultant that became an LLC on June 23, 2008, was a player behind the scenes in our elections. There is a big tie to developers with this company which has provided political services to homebuilders and Realtors with an alliance with Florida sugar companies’ positions on Everglades pollution and development controls.
Dave Vespo spent a lot of money with them, more than he would make as a Commissioner. Ric Bradshaw also used this firm. They developed his logo, did some printing and conducted a survey. I know some surveys were taken during our last local campaign but for whom or what they were trying to learn I don’t recall.
Cornerstone made a lot of money this past year with them raking in $1 million in State races and over $400,000 in local races here in Palm Beach County. Most consultants don’t mix their work with different parties but Rick Asnani’s Cornerstone Solutions included the following clients: Bob Kanjian, Republican, defeated candidate for PB County Commissioner; Michael McAuliffe, Democrat, winner of the State Attorney position; Bradshaw, a Democrat; Dave Vespo, Republican.
All candidates need to raise an ungodly amount of money to win an election. The true winner is the consultant, whether he gave good or bad advice, he takes home the green backs. I still advocate for an even playing field for all candidates--campaign with the same amount of money and may the best man win. It makes the election more honest and the outcome can never be blamed on the money.
