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Citrus slicesBy BRIDGET HALL GRUMET and JIM ROSS
© St. Petersburg Times, District vs. district in a court of jestersWith two members absent from Tuesday's meeting, there was nothing too controversial on the County Commission's agenda. Except, perhaps, for an administrative regulation that Commissioner Josh Wooten was pushing enthusiastically. Sure, the measure would allow civic groups and nonprofit organizations to chip in with the maintenance and beautification of county right of way, one of Wooten's pet causes. But Commissioner Jim Fowler had to wonder whether Wooten also had a hidden agenda. "Can you assure me," Fowler asked county staffers, "that nothing in this would entitle Commissioner Wooten's district to more roadside maintenance?" Wooten chuckled and took the charge in stride. "I think Commissioner Fowler is just jealous that I've made Citrus Slices more than him in recent weeks," Wooten said. Fowler paused. "I'm trying to think of something humorous to say, but it escapes me at the moment," he deadpanned. (This week's tally: Wooten 1, Fowler 1. Citrus Slices is remaining objective.) I'LL BE SEEING YOU IN ALL THE OLD FAMILIAR PLACES: Every year, the state Department of Transportation holds two public hearings where people can comment on the department's five-year work plan. Every year, people who oppose the Suncoast Parkway show up. And every year, transportation people politely listen and make notes. Pine Ridge resident Janet Masaoy attended the Tampa hearing last week and saw District 7 Secretary Kenneth Hartmann. Both were back again later in the week, when the second hearing was in Brooksville. "I guess you knew I was coming," Masaoy said as she approached the microphone. "You knew I was coming, too," Hartmann said. A few moments later, a DOT critic stood to speak. "I remember you from last year," Hartmann said. "Last year? Actually, it was two years ago," the man replied. "Time flies," Hartmann said. -- Staff writers Bridget Hall Grumet and Jim Ross compiled this report.
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