EDITOR'S NOTE: The following letter was received from Donald E. Casey, a candidate for Seat 4 on the Clearwater City Commission, in response to the St. Petersburg Times' editorial recommendation of his opponent, Carlen Petersen. The election is Tuesday.
By DONALD E. CASEY
Published March 3, 2004
Serving as a city commissioner is about understanding the needs of residents and prioritizing the use of the city's limited resources to meet those needs. I believe that it is far more important to have experience with the business of people than in the minutia of city government operations; the commission sets policy, while staff carries it out.
By this standard, I believe that I am better qualified to serve on the City Commission. With 40 years of experience in public education and school administration in Pinellas County, I have involved myself in the lives of my fellow citizens and their most precious assets - their children. I have managed the delivery of quality education to our children.
I have deep roots in our community, including all secondary schools encompassing Clearwater. My volunteer work includes Good Samaritan Episcopal Church; Clearwater Jazz Festival; homeowners association; Rotary International; sports coach and official; founded the Pinellas Chapter of International Compassionate Friends; co-president of the Clearwater High School PTA; trustee for St. Paul's School; and president of the Pinellas County Assistant Principals' Association.
Being retired allows me the flexibility and time to devote to the people's business. My ability to interact with the public allows me to be an honest negotiator between the various factions in our city. I am not backed by any special interests or political action committees, allowing me to cast an independent vote. I will bring new ideas and innovative leadership on the City Commission. My background and experience will allow me to bring a new perspective to our city government.
Our city government needs to be as financially responsible as we all are with our own financial affairs. This means keeping a close eye on expenditures, while finding new ways to increase income other than raising taxes and fees. As a diligent, hardworking Clearwater citizen, I want to assure that our tax dollars are well spent; neighborhoods, roads and bridges are safe; and the beaches remain open for residents and tourists to enjoy. I ask for your vote on March 9. Let Don Casey go to bat for you.
