Letter to Editor: Philip J. Mays

Dear Residents of St. Johns County,

As I reflect on the past year, I am proud to have the honor of serving as a Commissioner for the people of St. Johns County.

When the Governor stated his confidence in me and cited my extensive experience as a business executive I was determined to approach the job of county commissioner in the same professional and productive manner as I approach my own business. I have done just that, by maintaining the taxpayers of the county foremost in my thoughts as valued clients. I appreciate the opportunity to work on your behalf, and most importantly, thank the people of St. Johns County who received me so warmly.

This past year as a commissioner has been interesting, challenging and extremely rewarding. I am keenly aware that my wife, my children and I face many of the same challenges as each of you on a daily basis. With each vote I have endeavored to promote the public’s health, safety, and welfare and I have always voted with your family in mind.

Despite some of the worst economic times in this county’s long history, I have successfully relied upon and used my financial management and legal background to insure the county moves forward. Together with my other commissioners, and supported by a hard-working and diligent staff, we have accomplished many significant goals this past year including the following:

* Reduced the 2010 budget by $47 million, part of a $122 million decrease since 2007 coupled with a 200-position reduction in County staff

* Created a local office of the Small Business Development Center to aid entrepreneurs and business owners

* Updated traffic concurrency regulations to promote economic development

* Reorganized the Tourist Development Council, increasing transparency and accountability

* Authorized collection of a fourth-cent bed tax, bringing an additional $1.5 million into the county from tourists to pay for cultural events, recreation facilities, and tourism promotion

* Maintained a focus on public safety as a top priority

Additionally, as a commissioner I have personally represented the people of the county at the federal, state, and regional levels which has resulted in the county receiving millions of dollars in funding. This funding will not only help stimulate our local economy but also enhance our quality of life. For example:

* Helped secure $96 million of federal funding for State Road 9B

* Represented the county to the governor’s office and successfully received a disaster declaration to assist the agricultural community following the flooding damage that occurred after heavy rains last May and June

* Lobbied and secured $3.7 million in North Florida Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) funds to purchase right-of-way for future improvements at U.S. 1 and C.R. 210

* Partnered with FDOT to secure funding for the first phase of improvements on the C.R. 210/I-95 interchange

* Strengthened the relationship between the county and the PGA Tour and The Players Championship tournament, which has contributed more than $35 million to local charities, as well as the additional positive financial impact enjoyed by many local businesses

* Worked closely with Congressman John Mica to receive federal funding for the new public transit facility for the Sunshine Bus Company, as well as ramp improvements at S.R. 207 and I-95, paving and improving drainage on C.R. 214, traffic signal updates, and several new sidewalks

These and other County Commission accomplishments of the past year have created positive momentum for our county, which we must build upon during the next several years. With the support of the community, the county is clearly on its way to improved efficiency but it will take more time to reach optimum organizational performance. By communicating openly, honestly and working together, I am confident the county will emerge as a stronger, more efficient and focused community.

I have a deep respect for the county’s historic past, am proud to be allowed a role in its present and pledge my continued efforts to enrich the county’s future. These shared goals are what bind our families, neighborhoods and communities together.

I will continue to contribute to the future direction of our county whether or not I am a candidate in the upcoming election. Should a candidate who I believe will maintain the positive momentum of the present board run for the District 4 seat, I will certainly consider lending my support to their efforts. I plan to monitor unfolding events of the next few months very carefully and continue to make decisions with the best interests of the county in mind.

I extend my personal gratitude to each of you for the opportunity to serve you as a county commissioner.

Sincerely,
Phil Mays
St. Johns County Commissioner, District 4

The caption of this letter was editorialized by a local newspaper that inferred a possibly unintended conclusion. The full letter has been reprinted here, in its entirety, as a public service. The original letter was previously published by an appointed public official to the residents of St. Johns County.

Photo credit: © 2009 Historic City News staff photograph