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Put penny to work in Clearwater

By LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Published February 9, 2007

Re: Reject penny tax, reject boat ramps letter by Thomas M. Caragher, Feb. 6

Isn't it amazing how every time Clearwater tries to do something for our town, people complain.

We are so far behind our neighbors. When Dunedin talks about its boat slips and marinas, wonderful things are printed about their town.

When St. Petersburg, Safety Harbor, etc., do something, everyone isn't always happy about it, but there is never such an uproar from their residents like there is in Clearwater.

The name of our town includes the word "water," yet people like Thomas Caragher don't want to have anything done that would make it beautiful.

The Penny for Pinellas has accomplished so much throughout the county and there is so much more that needs to be done. So why would you say to vote against it? Many people who are paying it are only on vacation here.

It's time to move forward. This is not a sleepy town anymore. We've waited too long now to make the necessary improvements to keep our visitors coming.

By the way, I am affected by the traffic when it comes in droves during nice weather, but that's just part of living by the water. We love the water, our new bridge, the trail, etc., so please stop complaining and let's move on.

Betty Elsesser, Clearwater

Don't let the few control the many

Re: "May the only man win" is not a good election motto Diane Steinle column, Jan. 28

You ask why people don't want to run for public office. If you look in the mirror, you will see one of the reasons.

You call for the highest standards of public officials, which is appropriate. We should all expect the highest standards of our elected officials.

But to what standards are you held and to whom are you accountable? You hide behind the U.S. Constitution and get away with what would otherwise be defamation. Embarrassing and humiliating candidates and officials is your stock in trade. The newspaper prospers on dirt, sometimes passed on by political operatives whose only motive is to destroy an opponent.

I was most pleased that you revealed the role of "a behind-the-scenes player in recruiting qualified candidates for local offices," Ed Armstrong, a Clearwater lawyer who represents special interests such as developers large and small and the Church of Scientology.

Do you think his interest is better candidates and better government? Many of us know that, at the very least, Mr. Armstrong has your ear and some think you are in his pocket. What candidate would think they would be judged fairly by you?

You have a legitimate concern when you state you worry that "one day our local governing bodies will be dominated by people who were not elected but were appointed to fill an empty chair. Whose interests will those people serve?" The obvious answer is very simple: those who care about their community, who care about good government.

But as long as you are beholden to behind-the-scenes players and their favorites, people who care will be discouraged and special interests will prevail.

If you want lots of interested people running for local office, then please provide us with factual, timely and accurate reporting and editorials. Push away the special interest people. You could and should be a large influence in this effort.

David R. Pauley, Dunedin

Don't use police to settle squabble 

Re: Good grief! Duck-feeders aren't criminals letter, Jan. 8

Letter writer Chris Wags' comments are right on the money. It could not have been said any better. The police are needed for real crimes, and Tracy Thomas' neighbors need to get a life!

Ingrid Liddane, Safety Harbor

[Last modified February 9, 2007, 07:04:07]