Arrogance Rears Its Ugly Head. . . Again!

The City Council meeting of July 22 saw arrogance once again on display. It was clear that Chairman Grifoni has no respect for either his fellow councilpersons or the residents of Marco Island who elected him. During the “Citizens’ Comment” portion of the meeting, citizen, Robert Ventrano spoke about short-term rentals creating a nearly unlivable environment due to loud noise and parties. This portion of the meeting is reserved for people to address the council. Councilors are directed not to respond to the speakers. But Chairman Grifoni DID respond and when Mr. Ventrano tried to defend himself, the Chairman dismissed the resident and had him removed by the police the way a king would remove a subject! The obvious disrespect speaks volumes as to the Chairman’s disdain for his constituents.

As unprofessional as Chairman Grifoni’s behavior was, his disrespect for fellow councilman, Joe Rola was worse. While making his closing comments, he berated Councilor Rola over the question of short-term rentals in single-family residential areas. The Chairman controlled the discussion, chastised Councilor Rola when he tried to inject (after allowing other councilors to do so) and then closed that portion of the meeting before Councilor Rola had a chance to fully make his point.

The arrogance and disrespect for councilors and residents alike, shown by Chairman Grifoni seems to know no bounds. While he is term-limited in the next election, be careful when you vote for a councilor who shows his same lack of respect for the will of the people or common courtesy.