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North Redington Beach
By SHEILA MULLANE ESTRADA "Paying attention to the people" is the promise of candidates in the North Redington Beach mayor's race. NORTH REDINGTON BEACH -- The responsiveness of elected officials is a central issue in the mayoral campaign that matches two long-serving public officials, Harold Radcliffe and David Yost. At the same time, two political newcomers -- Richard Bennett and Thomas McCarthy -- are vying for the commission seat that will be vacated by Jeff Busch. None of the candidates has proposed any major changes for the town, which enjoys the lowest property tax rate in Pinellas County, has $2.2-million in reserves and is about to begin burying utility lines throughout the town (except Gulf Boulevard). Radcliffe is seeking re-election to his sixth term in office. Yost, who has served on the commission for 14 years, has given up his seat to run for mayor. Radcliffe points to his long experience as a "strong mayor" and is asking voters to let him continue "working diligently" for the town. He envisions a "five-year plan" that would include rebuilding roads and curbs once the utility lines project is completed, upgrading the town's sewer system, improving landscaping and pushing for beautification of Gulf Boulevard. "My engineering background has helped resolve problems and saved the town money," said Radcliffe, who says his re-election is "endorsed by the mayors of all ten beach communities." Yost says Radcliffe is "out of touch" with voters. He cites term and salary increases that Radcliffe and other commission members sought but were rejected by voters. Most recently, a threatened referendum led the commission to rescind its decision to install a basketball court at Harold Radcliffe Park. "I feel there is a lack of awareness and sensitivity from some of our elected officials," Yost said. "As mayor, I will be more responsive to the needs and concerns of our citizens." The candidates for Seat 1 on the town commission have similar backgrounds. Both have been unsuccessful in previous attempts to seek public office: Bennett in his recent bid for the Pinellas County School Board and McCarthy in his 1999 pursuit of a commission seat. Bennett points to his long experience as an automotive executive and his extensive civic involvement with such organizations as the Pinellas County Science Center and Boy Scouts of America. He says his service on the town's Planning and Zoning Board has given him insight into issues important to residents. "I am a firm believer we should do everything according to rules. If we don't like the rules, we should get them changed," Bennett said. McCarthy is pleased that the reclaimed water project is nearing completion and the utility lines project is about to begin. But he is unhappy with how the commission has handled its relations with the community. "I am concerned the majority of the commission doesn't pay attention to the people," said McCarthy, echoing many of the issues raised by Yost. "I would listen to the townspeople, and if they express concern about a subject or plan, I would act accordingly."
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From the Times South Pinellas desks |
