Commission Meeting thoughts--The continued Gang-Bang of Omari Hardy

Omari Hardy continued to show his intellect and understanding on the issues last night. Resident Tammy Pansa was spot on in her comments. Commissioner Maxwell was over-bearing as usual and when Hardy was questioning William Waters about the Transfer of Development Rights, Maxwell said he was "tired of the discussion" and for Hardy to give his "political disclaimer." NASTY stuff.

Andy Amoroso said Hardy was not attempting transparency but rather using "attack" tactics towards William Waters and was tired of people attacking staff. That was not Hardy's intent at all...not even in his mind. He gives thought-provoking debate and the dais and CM can't handle that. The only commissioners playing politics or using it as an excuse up there were those who challenged Hardy.

A motion was made on the Public Hearing Ordinance 2019-01 and it ended in a 2/2 vote. Amoroso insisted that the subject could not be brought back--Robinson disagreed and the city attorney agreed with Robinson. The TDR's will be brought back at the next meeting.

The next item of interest was a Consent Agenda item that was moved to New Business. City Manager Bornstein is the one who pursued the transfer of $547,140 to the CRA to acquire properties that have historic houses on them to eventually build a parking garage. One citizen actually told us that she polled businesses downtown, even Publix, and they all were in agreement of building a garage.  Well, of course they were.

The city manager totally makes the decisions to spend taxpayer money and commissioners follow his lead, always. He said that we were a community of neighborhoods but he sees  no problem in demolishing historic homes (in our neighborhoods) for asphalt or a parking garage. He does not like controversial questions especially from Hardy and indicated that he will pursue what he feels is best for our city even if a city board opposes.

The vote was 4/1 with Omari Hardy dissenting.