• Home
• About Us
• Contact Form
• Terms of Service

Local paper endorses Randy Brunson

The District 5 County Commission race will end with a new commissioner-elect for the Board of County Commissioners on Aug. 26 and The St. Augustine Record announced that with all the experience among the candidates, their pick is Brunson – we at Historic City News couldn’t agree more. Read more

Local paper endorses Mark Miner

The St. Augustine Record published their endorsements in the St. Johns County Commission races today.

The editorial staff at The Record remarked, “Miner shows wisdom beyond his years, and a keen understanding of the county’s needs. He says the commission has to take the lead in attracting new businesses and in providing incentives for them to relocate here. He said they will bring new high-paying jobs and perhaps keep some of the 30 percent of residents who commute now, home. He says the county’s tax base, about 84 percent residential, 16 percent commercial is out of line.” Read more

Local paper endorses Cyndi Stevenson

The St. Augustine Record published their endorsements in the St. Johns County Commission races today.

District 1 incumbent Cyndi Stevenson is running for a second four-year term against Al Abbatiello in the Republican primary. The winner will face Merrill Roland, a registered independent, on Nov. 4.

The editorial staff at The Record concluded “We recommend voters send Stevenson to the Nov. 4 general election and then elect her again to the County Commission.” Historic City News agrees with their choice. Read more

Candidates and the Arts: Bill Lennon

I am music lover and have been all my life; mostly 50’s & 60’s and classic country. As a young man I was very involved in rock and roll, as I got older I started to like classical music, as I traveled around the world I fell in love with the Spanish music and their arts.

That said one year coming from Spain and still a commissioner, at a city meeting I made a motion to allow out door dinning with music through out St. Augustine but Len Weeks and Mark Alexander shot it down twice, they didn’t want a the competition and continued to fight it every time I tried to bring it up.

Just think of all the people who would come to St.Augustine at night just to sit out side and eat and listen to the music. I forgot to mention this was for night time only.

I really like all the arts but I have no talent for any of them,all my talents are in hockey and boxing.

I hope this gives you a little of my background as far as the arts go. Thank you all for the work you do for the arts.

Bill Lennon

Candidates and the Arts: Joe Boles

QUESTION #1

Our entire city is an artistic marvel. Planned streetscapes, the traditional town plan used and decreed by the Spanish King, the pioneering poured concrete building method, the creations of the young architects Carere & Hastings, and the recreation and/or restoration of our Spanish Colonial period structures are the very reason we enjoy such a volume of visitation. If we St. Augustinians do not protect, maintain and encourage the good stewardship of our historic and artistic resources then no one else will (as we have seen this year in the State’s inability to commit funds for maintenance of the historic properties). We must stay on course with those priorities first and foremost.

QUESTION #2

I support a very cautious approach to uncontrolled outdoor events that could lead us down the path of recreating the flea market atmosphere that existed in our central plaza when I first joined the City Commission. We can move toward the New Orleans/Key West model or toward the Williamsburg model. I prefer the latter and so do our growing population of Heritage Tourists. I have no doubt that a WalMart downtown would draw a paying clientèle, but that is not our goal, our goal is to be good stewards of our downtown historic resources while encouraging economic viability.

QUESTION #3

I will personally keep collecting artwork for my own pleasure. I will purchase local artists’ creations whenever possible. (Bo Sterk, T. Clover White, Mary Joe Sinclair, Emmet Fritz, Todd Lindenmuth, E.B. Warren, Eric Holmes, Hildegard Muller Uri, to name a few!) A city of our size must partner with the much larger county for programs as we do for Parks and Recreation. I am excited about a
coming idea for development of a theater/entertainment venue in the city (grant sourced, city owned, city managed). Other projects are: outdoor sculpture installed around the parking garage, consideration of murals and decorative treatment for the inside of the parking garage, get the power poles painted in San Marco area, continue to partner with entities for outdoor concerts, etc. I still want someone to come forward to hang artwork in City Hall.

Candidates and the Arts: Dan Sullivan

Question # 1

There is great sub-surface energy emanating from the larger “Arts Community” within the city which bursts forth on First Friday Art Walks when our many galleries, related and nearby businesses remain open and welcoming to a delighted public. A similar spirit in a smaller venue is evident at Uptown Saturday Night as the merchants along ‘Uptown’ San Marco Avenue, including several art galleries, entertain the public after normal business hours. Given the enormous popularity and success of these monthly events, why would the city not encourage more ‘arts-based commerce’?

Without the benefit of having an administrative line office dedicated to supporting local businesses, the city can only compensate by developing cost-effective alternatives. There are a few simple options which I will sponsor if elected:

a. The City Commission should create a new citizen advisory board, a Cultural Arts Committee, whose primary purpose would be to organize civic events and programs to promote the creative, performing and literary arts in conjunction with existing arts advocacy organizations, schools and museums. It is envisioned that such a body would be representative of many occupational categories and institutions within the Arts Community and would be helpful to the City Commission in expanding programs and opportunities within all areas of the city.

b. Given the documented interest and investment by adult travelers in cultural events and also by city and nearby residents, many of whom live here because of their interest, enjoyment or involvement in the arts, the new city website should make cultural event
information easier to access. Although there is a link to the SJCC website [and the SJCC does a great job of informing about specific ‘cultural’ events], it takes some guess work and maneuvering [through “Visitors” then through “Special Events”] to connect to that site. Further, the site presumes that without a more generic title such as ‘Arts, Music, Theatre and more … ‘ for example, a visitor knows that the “St. Johns Cultural Council” referenced will provide the sought after information. The site should be more userfriendly and recognize that it’s not only visitors who are interested in ‘Cultural Events.’ I would propose a re-design of the new COSA website to allow ‘the public’ more direct access to SJCC’s website and information on present and upcoming Cultural Events.

Question # 2

As your well-structured question points out, our city’s downtown commerce once had interesting historic references. In order to restore some of that ‘old world’ energy and bring more business opportunities to the city, we need to utilize our beautiful, open public spaces for the benefit of our residents and visitors alike. There have been two major “Issues” listed on my website since February, 2008 which largely define my position on the subject:

a. I am supporting the creation of a Market in the Public Square between the Visitor Information Center [VIC] and the Parking Garage where local foods and produce, fine arts, crafts and other interesting wares can be sold on a regularly-scheduled, downtown Market Day. This event would in no way compete with the wonderfully successful Farmers’ Markets now held at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre on Saturdays and at the St. Augustine Beach Pier on Wednesdays. To the contrary, the city would imitate their successes and attempt to return a ‘Downtown Market’ to the city on a day to be decided after public testimony from a variety of perspectives —- all welcome.

b. I have also been promoting a reconsideration of policies which have caused outdoor dining activities to be restricted. I believe that the city should “… Allow the owners of restaurants in permanent buildings with sufficient sidewalk space to provide acceptable pedestrian and safety vehicle access to expand outdoors into sidewalk cafes … where food and drink can be served to the public. These venues … would serve to create an atmosphere of enjoyment and festivity and encourage a favorite human pastime –people- watching.” (Quoted from my website)

Question #3

According to a 2004 study sponsored by the Florida Department of State and the Florida Cultural Alliance, ‘Arts and Culture’ have contributed significantly to the local economy of Florida’s cities. In a period of economic downswing, however, the City Commission will need to create new opportunities such as those previously mentioned:

a. Creating a Cultural Arts Committee to organize events and programs

b. Making Cultural Event information easier to access on the city’s website

c. Create an outdoor Public Market at the VIC

If elected, I would encourage the Arts community to explore other non-traditional options in conjunction with St. Johns County government such as:

• Sponsorship of Public Art Programs and Competitions (Tourist Development Council / Chamber of Commerce)

• The Arts in Criminal Justice, a newly formed national alliance (Sheriff s Office, Corrections Department)

• Art Therapy for Health, particularly mental health (Hospitals and Clinics)

In the end, I believe that the creation of a Cultural Arts Committee as a citizen advisory board to the City Commission is critical to assuring that ‘the artist labor force’ in the city and beyond is well-represented and that more opportunities for integrating ‘the Arts’ into non-traditional activities are discovered.

Candidates and the Arts: F. Peter Romano

QUESTION #1

The policies of any government should allow for the development and fostering of arts and cultural/historic tourism, and certainly not stifle or regulate their development. It is not government’s role to judge art. Having lived for over 20 years in Portland, Oregon before coming to St. Augustine in 2000, I directly experienced the positive impacts of a city with a well thought out and comprehensive plan. Portland embraced its creative, historic and entrepreneurial resources to improve citizen and visitor quality of life.

Recent decisions by St. Augustine commissioners have resulted in the elimination of “public performance” in our city. Other cities, such as New York, Munich, Portland, Prague, Florence and Savannah, to name just a few, have a thriving public entertainment environment. In New York and Portland, for example, self-governing artist guilds serve as a conduit for a vibrant performance
atmosphere. Walking through Grand Central Station, you can see signs asking for artists to apply to a guild in order to perform in the subways of New York.

“Art” is embraced, fostered and protected in New York, without the interference of city officials. I believe that such an organization in St. Augustine could effectively expand art, both performance and other, to benefit the public and tourists, thus
eliminating the current government censorship.

Historically significant locations such as Williamsburg, Sante Fe, Savannah, and Charleston benefit both economically and “quality of life” through creative expansion and development of arts and historical venues. Much of this is accomplished through effective use of public and private philanthropy, an area that has not been actively tapped by St. Augustine.

QUESTION #2

I have long supported the European concepts and have traveled to many cities and enjoyed the street life. These cities are able to accomplish such activities as a result of regular reviews of their comprehensive plans, something that St. Augustine officials ignore. Our comprehensive plan is dated 1997 and does not address real “quality of life” or “walkable city” issues – it takes a myopic view of the city rather than a comprehensive view. European cities have been proactive in promoting such concepts because of their historic emphasis on quality of life, higher energy costs and compactness – they have long wanted to preserve their countryside and beauty, recognizing that this improves tourism while sustaining their cultural and historic identity. They effectively utilize and preserve their historic buildings in new and sustainable ventures. We are just now dealing with crumbling infrastructure, significantly higher energy costs, limited resources and the impact of unconstrained growth. Making St. Augustine a more livable city, through walking, biking, access to public rail transportation such as the trolley system that existed until 1930, and an active street life is key to bringing our city into the 21st century while also becoming a more attractive tourist destination.

As noted in question 1, I would applaud a self-governing artist guild. I would also expand the community discussion to new urban concepts and comprehensive planning.

QUESTION #3

While city government should focus on the safety of its residents, businesses, and students, it should not be making decisions on “what is art”. It does however have a responsibility to limit scams and public nuisances. It must enforce vagrancy, hygiene, petty theft and other safety rules. St. Augustine cannot afford to have its reputation negatively impacted in the press. That being
said, I do believe that government can foster a creative industry in St. Augustine.

From a University of Florida study, our city has some of the lowest paid workers in the county and state. Expanding the number and breadth of creative positions within our community can only improve these statistics and make for a more vibrant community.

It would attract younger families and creative entrepreneurs to make our city their home.

Again, a self-governing effective guild system much like what is done at Portland’s Saturday Market would assure venues, availability and quality of arts, music and crafts without government control. Within they city budget, $4.2 million is spent on heritage tourism, of which approximately $1 million goes for personnel. Most of these positions are patronage positions rather than being filled by artists. I would be a proponent of ensuring that experienced and qualified personnel are in these positions to make a real difference and “think outside the box”.

The city should consider making its public property more easily available for cultural and historic activities, especially underutilized areas near the garage or historic buildings (a la Williamsburg). The city should coordinate with the county on usage of property such as the Galimore Center, Calvin Peet or the Amphitheater to expand activities and access. Similarly, an outreach program
with Flagler College could benefit the educational needs of residents. Having “destination” programs such as culinary or art vacations in St. Augustine would also attract tourists, artists and other craftspeople to the area.

For example, could Riberia Street sustain new art such as glass blowing, ceramics, textiles and sculpture workshops, classes and retail outlets?

I would engage the cultural institutions, neighborhood associations and their residents, philanthropy, business and educational experts in expanding creative and historic use of our St. Augustine resources.

Candidates and the Arts: Leanna Freeman

QUESTION #1

The arts are an integral part of a tourists experience because it separates St. Augustine from other tourist destinations. We must offer activities and experiences which will make repeat visitors of our tourists. A returning visitor not only brings disposable dollars
but is a potential investor in our community. For this reason the City and County must give priority to cultural activities and arts and should support them with funding. We should explore raising the bed tax to support the arts. However, an increase can only be
made if it will not have a detrimental impact on our area hotels and inns.

QUESTION #2

St. Augustine is widely known for its “European feel,” which comes from a variety of characteristics such as our small brick streets, architecture, history etc. Outdoor entertainment and the potential for outdoor dining have all but been abolished under current restrictions and ordinances. The majority of visitors, business owners and residents want to see quality entertainment and artists on our streets as well as have the opportunity to dine “al fresco” near a public street or sidewalk. Modifications to our current policies should be explored conjunctively by artists, business owners and residents. I believe that by implementing temporary modifications such as, limited times and places to allow tables on the street and specific spots for artists and entertainers, we
will commit to making changes while working out problems which arise during the experimental period.

QUESTION #3

The success of our creative industries, not only impacts various successes of our community but it also impacts our quality of life, which is my campaign theme. The success of the Amphitheater has improved the quantity and quality of arts in our area. While the impact is felt financially by local restaurants and hotels, the artistic opportunity is felt by our residents who enjoy the experience while supporting the industry. I propose making our entrance corridors a priority for landscaping and underground utilities will improve areas such as the uptown San Marco Area and King Street, where many of our local artists are currently located and contributing to our creative community.

Candidates and the Arts: Ken Bryan

1. PUBLIC FUNDING AND THE ARTS

Will you support public funding for the arts after you are elected?

Yes

I will support the arts as much as possible through the TDC and encouragement to continue to explore every initiative possible to help fund existing as well as new programs.

I will continue to strongly encourage the application and winning of grants similar to the recent successes.

I would also continue to improve the relationship of the community to understand the value of funding through the TDC.

The employment of a full time Director would help the Cultural Council become a huge success and thread in the fabric of our county.

2./ ARTS, CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND TOURISM

Will you support the use of county bed tax revenues to promote local arts and culture activities to help grow the tourism and economy after you are elected?

Yes

I totally agree with the issues discussed.

As an artist, I understand the value of the arts and culture in St. Johns County.

Tourism is the largest industry in the county and we must continue to harness the benefits of having and encouraging what people come here for. The oldest city in the nation which provides an atmosphere they can vacation and relax in without the “Disney” glitter.

We have a jewel here in St. Johns County.

The bed tax is something tourist expect to pay and don’t mind paying IF we provide the atmosphere and environment they came here to enjoy. If we let this get away, we become another Daytona Beach or place to just get sand in your shoes.

3.ARTS AND RECREATION

Will you support funding and legislation that will enhance the county’s definition of recreation to include arts and culture as part of activities offered to our citizens?

Yes

I will continue to take trips to Tallahassee to talk to legislatures and emphasize the importance of keeping a vibrant arts and culture program as part of activities offered to our citizens.

Not everyone can excel in athletics and as a teacher of the arts, I remember observing significant strides in the confidence and self esteem of students who could not do well in traditional sports programs, but did well in the arts and dance.

Candidates and the Arts: Randy Brunson

QUESTION #1- Publicfunding for the arts
C\i{’C) \-t
QUESTION #1- Public funding for the arts:

YES - I support it.

A key step would be to develop a comprehensive plan to identify, prioritize and fund arts and cultural activities with emphasis on events that will draw visitors from outside of the county.

This should be one of the benchmarks of a well conceived, well planned event.

Priority also should be given to those activities, events and programs that can leverage public resources through matching funds and grants.

Attendance numbers and dollars generated by an event should be tracked carefully to support funding requests and justify expenditures as we account ‘to the public for our funding decisions.

Advocates for art, culture and history must cooperate and coordinate with tourism interests to maximize the impact of an event and to return a good value for each dollar that our visitors spend.

QUESTION #2 - Bed tax YES - I support it.

Several U.S. cities are known for annual events that draw tens of thousands of visitors. If we want to attract more than just day visitors, we have to give people a reason to stay overnight.

There has to be enough happening that it can’t be seen in just one day. For example; Charleston SC is known for its annual week long wildlife art exposition, which Is followed by a multiple week music festival. Fort Lauderdale and Miami Beach each have annual wine and art festivals that happen over four days.

Our community has a rich heritage and can certainly identify, develop and deliver an annual multi-day event.

This would be a great use of bed tax dollars because we are looking to promote overnight stays. My question would be, why don’t
we already have such an art and cultural event happening?

You have my support.

QUESTION#:3 - Arts and Recreation. YES

Certainly art and culture can be considered recreational activities.

However this a qualified YES - because as a responsible elected official, I would want to know the specific. definition of “recreation’” and the actual proposed changes to that definition.

Also, when speaking of children and recreation; I recognize a real difference between the experiences of a child learning to appreciate art versus having the chance to be creative and artistic as a kid.

This idea of redefining recreation merits exploration and discussion and I would be open to offering our citizens more chances to get involved with the arts.

« Previous Page — Next Page »

• Recent News Stories

  • High level openings draw questions
  • Local man missing since September 21st
  • Notes: September Airport Authority meeting
  • Website delivers charter information
  • Guest Column: Change or no change?
  • County Departments to Move Locations
  • Colonial Arts and Crafts Festival
  • 11th Annual Greek Heritage festival
  • General Election candidates forum
  • Wells Fargo wins Wachovia afterall
  • Artworthy: Debbie Boon
  • Cultural Events October 1 – October 9
  • Select from many activities this weekend
  • City Water to Undergo Adjustment
  • Suspect sought in West King beating

Copyright © 2008 St. Augustine News - Historic City News and Media · Login