Why we need Amendment 4, Florida Hometown Democracy

Today's Palm Beach Post:
Letter to the Editor

If taxpayers must pay, they should have say.

Thanks to Sally Swartz for her excellent column that described the recent gutting of Martin County's local comprehensive land-use plan at the behest of politically powerful land speculators. Her column shows why we need Amendment 4 - Florida Hometown Democracy - to pass in November.

One recent study showed that existing residents pay 40 percent of the cost of services needed for new development - water, sewer, police and fire departments, roads and schools. Is a new development worth it? We should get to vote before we're forced to pay. Voters need a seat at the table to offset the influence of the "pay-to-play politics" Ms. Swartz talks about in her column. That's why Florida Hometown Democracy makes sense.

After a city or county studies a land-use proposal, holds hearings on it, and votes, citizens will get the chance to weigh in. The public can veto or approve the land-use change in the next election. When Amendment 4 passes, citizens - not just land speculators and politicians - will make decisions and can approve development that is in the community's best interest. It's that simple, and it makes sense.

LINDA GRAND

Palm City