Susan's Many Faces

Comment Up
The commentary below was submitted as comment on a specific blog that was out 2 days ago. As it is well written and significant to the situation at hand, it now appears as a Guest Blog by Lake Worth resident, Peter J. Matthews.


Once again, Lake Worth citizens have witnessed the many faces of Susan Stanton, AKA the City Manager.

I personally appeared at a City Commissioner’s meeting to speak against the flat-rate fire assessment plan and was advised by her that a multi-tiered rate was being considered. Results: Flat Rate One, Concerned Citizens Nil (must use international soccer terms because they’re preferable to American style sports terms). Upon reflection, I thought I heard her comment that the residential units assessments would be based on size or the value of the property, after all, that would be fair and equitable – a point I often stated. Why even our federal income tax is graduated! This statement was nodded to by at least one commissioner. When I left the podium, I thought that they had listened to what was said, not merely heard. Wrong!

Apparently speaking out of both sides of your mouth at the same time is a factor for consideration to be hired here in our sanctuary city – could this be one reason our taxable base is low? I’m convinced that pressing your clothes with a waffle iron is a recommended strategy for campaigning prior to election, after all, the “Pep Boy” head bobbers on the dais must appear to listen intently before spending our money... wouldn’t want Little Bo Peep at the panel’s south end to think they’ll act independently.

Lastly, I stated that elected and appointed officials were put into office to make decisions based on equity – and got the requisite nods of approval. Decision making is tough, so tough here that we’ve outsourced this task to a hired gun called GSG. Now whatever they recommend, we must obey. This way no one is responsible come voting time. What a perfect foil. “Look Mom, it’s not my fault, GSG did it.” GSG is the silver bullet here – they’re not subject to the vagaries of the electorate. They’re contract employees of the city and our record on contracts is unbeatable: Casino, Water, Sheriff, and Fire Rescue just to call a few of the all time greats. "It’s not my fault" is the mantra of the month. It’s a great time to be a decision maker-- just look at the growing line-up for November.

Yes sir, yes sir, three bags full (of what)? Tune in next time, same bat time, same bat channel.

/s/ Joe Matthews