Why I'm Running

Sometimes it’s the small changes in local laws that have a profound impact on daily life in a community.

In the state of Florida, 19 counties have home-rule mandates. Florida voters granted the power to adopt charters in 1968. This rule removed the resolution of local problems from the state legislature’s busy agenda and allowed counties more control over their local affairs.

Today, the Charter Review Board exists as a little-known elected governmental entity whose members approve or deny citizens’ requests to amend our Charter.

In these uncertain times, the Charter Review Board should reach out to our community and initiate a constructive conversation about how collectively we can deal with current economic concerns. The board should establish an open, accessible forum at which citizens and members can discuss how our Charter should evolve to meet the needs of all. For too long the make up of this Board has been uni-directional; I offer a different perspective not normally seen in government.

In the past, the voters of Sarasota County have passed amendments to our Charter,

but litigation has blocked their application. While recognizing the right to appeal, the Charter Review Board should lead the way toward forming consensus by reviewing and recommending referenda that meet all required legal standards. The Board is designed as a vehicle for citizens to amend our Charter to meet the changing needs of our community. The Charter Review Board should reflect and exemplify this important mission.

I will work to establish a more-welcoming environment, one that encourages citizens to step forward when they see a need for change in our Charter. When elected, I will strive to increase citizen participation, to enhance communication with the community and to thoroughly assess the merits of proposals presented to the Board.