Weather | Sports | Forums | Comics | Classifieds | Calendar | Movies
Editor: This letter has to do with two issues in Hernando County.
First, the sales tax issue. We will vote "no" March 9. Reasons: Each year there is new revenue from new construction of commercial property and residential homes. The property appraiser raises values each year on existing properties. The Sheriff's Office should quit asking for all the extra money each year.
Second, Utilities Department Director Kay Adams wants inclining water rates in Spring Hill. She says it will conserve water. Yes, she will allow twice-a-week watering.
Is this conservation? My guess is that she wants the rate increase to pay off the $36-million Hernando County paid for the water system that they should not have bought in the first place.
Re: Deputy sued in shooting death, Jan. 24 Times.
Editor: Eleven shots fired by a Hernando County sheriff's deputy at an unarmed motorist in a residential neighborhood. Eleven shots fired, and as I recall, at least one bullet hit John Tenison in the back of the head.
That's right. Deputy Scott Lamia actually fired 11 shots from his gun within six seconds of getting out of his vehicle.
This is the third time Lamia has fired his weapon at unarmed citizens. Fortunately, Lamia missed his targets the previous two times.
According to the so-called independent investigation, two eyewitnesses stated that John Tenison had made a slow left turn and then Lamia fired. They both said they didn't believe Lamia was in danger of being run over. Did you hear that, Sheriff Richard Nugent?
Eleven shots fired at an unarmed man attempting to flee the scene of a domestic disturbance. And, as I also recall, one resident who heard the shots ring out was so terrified that she gathered her children and put them in a closet for safety.
Yet, Deputy Lamia still has his job, his benefits and, more importantly, the authority to use his gun again for a fourth time. That is frightening.