Group would keep eye on city

In the aftermath of Tuesday's library decision, Commissioner Marty Shelby is encouraging residents to join a government watchdog group.

By MICHAEL SANDLER, Times Staff Writer
© St. Petersburg Times
published June 22, 2002

LARGO -- A small group of residents aided by Commissioner Marty Shelby has begun rallying others to join a civic group that would keep closer watch on the Largo City Commission.

Terry Cyper and Dale Alford said they have taken calls from people dissatisfied with the city commission's decision Tuesday to forge ahead with construction contracts for a $22-million library. They had favored Shelby's idea of putting the 93,000-square-foot building to a public referendum in September.

Alford said he has spoken with hundreds of people since Tuesday's five-hour meeting. Many told him they would be interested in joining a group that could "exchange information . . . (to) find out what's going on with their government."

Both men said they favored a smaller, less expensive library. Alford called the proposed library a "civic center."

"I believe our officials are not listening," said Alford. "I'm a concerned citizen, and I'm going to talk to as many people as I can."

One person Alford has relied on for support is Shelby, who has funneled people his way.

"I'm not working with Marty organizing this group," he said. "Has Marty sent people to me? Yes."

Shelby spent two weeks lobbying support in the community for his referendum meeting. Of the more than 200 who attended Tuesday's meeting, about 30 came to the lectern saying they would favor delaying the project until the public has a say.

On Wednesday, the Times asked Shelby if he had further plans to oppose the commission. Shelby said he was "satisfied" and would leave the rest to the people.

After that interview, the Times got a copy of an e-mail sent by Shelby indicating he is actively assisting the group.

"Are you interested in joining a group of outraged citizens who are not going to forget what city government did to them last night?" Shelby wrote. "They are looking for people who would like to become active. If you are interested, I will have you get in touch with them or have them get in touch with you, whatever you like. It was obvious to them last night this was only the beginning."

Shelby confirmed he sent the e-mail. But he said he could not comment on the group's objective and was not taking an active role recruiting members.

"I'm referring people who have expressed an interest to those people who are very interested in starting a grass-roots organization," Shelby said. "My goal is to put people in touch with each other."

-- Michael Sandler can be reached at 445-4174 or sandler@sptimes.com.

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