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Gold star, Clearwater, for controls of flooding

Re: Kapok wetland project opens today , story, Dec. 13.

Hurrah for Clearwater for implementing three flood-management projects around the city. These projects are examples of wise long-range planning by city leaders. They relieve stresses on the environment caused by too much development, protect wildlife and create much-needed green space in the community.

Such efforts rarely get much publicity but are so important in making a community livable. Unfortunately, they are too few and far between.

We have enough condominiums, hotels and strip centers in Clearwater. By continuing to approve more and larger building projects, we risk ruining the city with overdevelopment. We must insist that our leaders focus on preservation, beautification and good resource management to make our city great again, both for residents and visitors.

Perhaps when voters see leaders adopting these priorities, they will approve a redevelopment plan for Clearwater's downtown.

Customers suffer because state PSC on utilities' side

Re : Weep not for utilities; you're padding their budgets , column, Dec. 12.

These companies had a hard storm aftermath, but so have their customers. However, the utilities have the state Public Service Commission in their corner.

I live on a fixed income, but my Social Security increase is eaten up before I receive it. I've cut back until there is nowhere else to cut. Also, my condo insurance will go up in 2006. What can I tack that extra amount onto? My phone bill has gone up $5 a month.

It's true that the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. It's a no-win situation.

Attorney general the only one in consumer's corner

Re : Weep not for utilities; you're padding their budgets , column, Dec. 12.

Gosh, I wish someone would pad my budget!

In following the stories of several increases in utility charges, it seems Florida Attorney General Charlie Crist is the only person in Tallahassee who is on the side of the consumer. I commend and appreciate his efforts. Too bad he didn't get more support.

Mayor's objection against Next Big Thing is gutless

Re: Concert organizers face cost of cursing , story, Dec. 13.

The Clearwater mayor's objection to the Next Big Thing alternative rock concert was too lame, and almost whispered. No guts!

Looks like City Manager Bill Horne and parks and recreation director Kevin Dunbar are running things at City Hall, all right. Why have a City Council?

Sadly, it'll not get any better, and in a few years, there will be a brand-new board of ill-reputes, probably, who couldn't care less about morality.

I am disgusted!

[Last modified December 20, 2005, 01:50:22]