Letter: TDC members given bad information

Letter: TDC members given bad information

Bill Jones
St Augustine Beach, FL

Dear Editor:

I directed a request for a copy of the TDC Workshop agenda and supporting materials to Glenn Hastings, and I appreciate Dena Masters’ response to my request; however, after looking over the materials I was provided, and while paying particular attention to materials regarding St Augustine Beach, I have a couple of concerns.

The information that has been provided to the TDC members to discuss today, Monday October 21, regarding St Augustine Beach and the Pier Park is completely inaccurate.

The supporting research for this workshop is quite lengthy — over 260 pages. This material contains an enormous amount of data and citizens like myself, along with TDC members, will have less than a week to read, digest and analyze.

I have seen other governmental bodies provide an exorbitant amount of materials to citizens and governing boards in order to muddy the waters.

This tactic sometimes discourages citizens and council members from asking questions.

The other goal this tactic is associated with is the presenter trying to justify his or her employment.

Because of the number of pages and amount of data, these materials should have been made available at least two weeks prior to the workshop.

I am also aware of input that has been provided to the TDC from the general public that is not included in the source material. It would be nice if this information was also made available to TDC members and concerned citizens as part of the meeting packet. I trust the community input will be shared at this workshop.

I also trust that Mr. Hastings will set the record straight regarding the inaccuracies about the Pier Park and beaches before the workshop begins.

I regret that my job prevents me from attending the workshop. I do look forward to viewing the meeting on cable and hearing from those in attendance.