Out with the new – in with the old

The City of St Augustine has the opportunity to replace outgoing commissioner Bill Leary on Monday night; or at least to discuss potential candidates during the public business meeting — as of the distribution of the agenda, ten have so far expressed their interest in serving the two years remaining on Leary’s term.

Don Heine, who ran against Mayor Joe Boles during his re-election bid in 2010, has contacted City Manager John Regan to throw his hat in the ring and the remaining nine suitors each sent an e-mail or letter expressing their desire to fill in the hole created by Leary’s decision to resign and leave town.

Historic City News has obtained those requests for this article.

The full list of applicants, as of Friday, includes Randy Brunson, Steve Cottrell, Larry Crews, Don Crichlow, Don Heine, Deltra Long, Bruce Maguire, Grant Misterly, Herb Rippe, and Steven Schuyler.

Mayor Boles told one contender that he wants to see Don Crichlow return to his old seat — a seat he held for eight years before throwing his support to Bill Leary; a newcomer to St Augustine, a political unknown, and an appointee (sponsored by Crichlow) to the Planning and Zoning Board.

The commission has two meetings to discuss these or other candidates to fill Seat 4 before Governor Rick Scott steps in to make an appointment. Leary’s resignation is effective February 18 and the city charter allows 10 days for the remaining commissioners to act. Unless a special meeting is called, the commission meets Monday and again February 25.

If you are planning to attend the St Augustine City Commission’s regular meeting which begins at 5:00 p.m. Monday evening in the Alcazar Room of City Hall located at 75 King Street. The public is invited, although seating is limited. The meeting will be televised live via GTV, Comcast Channel 3.