We Must Do Better

I’ve taken a couple of weeks to let the results of a recent government-mandated advisory board’s decision to clear from my mind. In the State of Florida there is only one such board that is mandated by law for all municipal and county governments to establish. The Marco Island Planning Board is unique in that it is the only city “advisory board” which has its responsibility afforded to it by a Florida State Statute. F.S. 163.3174 mandates that local jurisdictions establish a “local planning agency,” unless it is otherwise established by law.

This oversight is extremely important regarding a governmental body’s ability to maintain the integrity and vision for how its residents view their community. Those duties serve essentially to protect the property values within the boundaries of a community and, by doing so, to maintain and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.

However, there are limitations as how these boards may operate and procedures which must be followed, otherwise a community or county could be liable for overstepping its duties and responsibilities. 

It is easy to become mired down in the emotions of issues or personally held beliefs about issues, versus following the letter of the law with regard to procedural requirements.

As I’ve said before, a planning commission or board is unlike any of other governmentally appointed body. Its importance is highlighted by the fact that it is mandated by state law, therefore placing a great amount of significance on its role. Appointments to positions on the planning board must, and should be, carefully weighed, especially with regard to the appointees’ understanding of their individual responsibilities and the significant roles that demeanor and character play in formulating their decisions.

While serving on a board such as this, or even on city council, those who serve must adhere to their role in the process. A good friend of mine explained the difference between simply taking up space as a member of a deliberative body, or concentrating on following the law and the carefully laid out procedural requirements that dictate the process. He always told me that this requires the ability to leave preconceived notions at the door before sitting in that seat. This allows one to maintain an open mind and reflect on the facts as presented regarding the issues before them, and deal with those items according to the facts as presented. That requires an understanding regarding on which side of the dais you sit.

In my opinion, this philosophy should extend across all of our advisory boards. Keep an open mind and be prepared to do what’s right, not necessarily what is convenient or popular. An open mind is the most important tool any of us can bring to a meeting, and helps to ensure we provide a level playing field for all involved.

A Little Disappointed 

I try to not complain too much, but instead, attempt to find solutions when I can. After I had seat on the original Veterans’ Community Park Planning Committee, a few folks came to me with the idea that we should do something to provide some shade and vegetation within the newly created greenspace on the island.

I somewhat reluctantly said I would volunteer with them, and a small “Trees are Cool Committee” was assembled by then Community Development Director Bryan Milk. It was a wonderful group of folks who just wanted to do something nice for the community they called home. Believe me when I say I wasn’t chosen for the committee for my knowledge of trees, but instead, I volunteered because I knew how to raise money. I left the selection of trees and plants to others, and we went out and worked hard to provide donations of cash and trees to help with the effort.

Some of these were expensive plants and trees, so you’ll understand my disbelief when one of the old committee members came to me two weeks ago to say that the contractor for the renovations of the park had unceremoniously ripped out those trees and they were destroyed.  

Many of those trees had dedication plaques placed near them, but were simply discarded without a thought regarding repurposing them. This was bad enough, but also it pointed out another fact that concerns me. That lies in the lack of “historical knowledge” regarding what we have accomplished on an island as a city less than 25 years old.

Is there not someone within the city leadership who understands the importance of what citizens have accomplished at no cost to the community? It appears there isn’t, and it is a shame. I will assume some of that burden for not speaking up, having been a member of that committee, so I publicly apologize.