A Sept. 1 date has been set to create an organization that will attempt to resolve discontent with city officials.
By MELIA BOWIE
Published July 12, 2003
NEW PORT RICHEY - A movement is rising among New Port Richey business leaders, a movement for a merchants' association.
By Sept. 1.
That was one of the missions set at a business forum this week designed to unify business owners and resolve their discontent with the city.
"A merchants' association is something we have been dreaming and panting over for the last two years," said Judy DeBella Thomas, executive director of New Port Richey Main Street.
The non-profit organization hosted Thursday night's event - the second session of "New Port Richey Street Talk."
About 40 business owners and landlords attended the workshop that was led by facilitators Veronica Boaz and Mercedes Lopez. City Council member Ginny Miller also attended briefly.
Many there said feelings of frustration drew them to the session.
"I came to see if dealing with the city can be made easier," said Mary Valenti, owner of Shear Delight Dog Grooming - echoing sentiments others expressed about a difficult permitting process, code enforcement and misdirection from building officials.
Elected leaders and city staff also will get their say.
On Friday, they met with Boaz to survey their own frustrations with business owners and to identify solutions.
Discussed was the issue of "what does the city expect from the business leaders and what do the business leaders expect from the city," Boaz said.
Possible fixes include establishing an ad hoc committee made up of municipal and business leaders. The creation of a new job at City Hall to help facilitate business issues also is another option that has been included in the upcoming year's budget.
"This whole process is designed to change a relationship," Boaz said.
The city is sponsoring the "Street Talk" conference series with a $5,000 grant administered by Main Street.
A third, and final, session will be held at 6 p.m. July 17 with key city staff and elected officials also attending. Both viewpoints will be heard.
Said Boaz: "I think it's going to be a shocker."
- Melia Bowie can be reached in west Pasco at 869-6229, or toll-free at 1-800-333-7505, ext. 6229. Her e-mail address is bowie@sptimes.com
