According to his court docket, Historic City News has learned that Thomas G. Manuel, who was suspended by the Governor from his office as St. Johns County Commission Chairman, is scheduled to change his not-guilty plea to bribery charges this morning.

I like to discuss opinions and perspectives with our elected leaders — especially at budget time. County Commission Chairman Cyndi Stevenson forwarded some of her observations about this year’s budget along for me to consider.

City commissioners agreed Monday in a special commission workshop to spread coverage of an anticipated $1.38 million deficit in next year’s budget with increases in tax millage, fire assessment fees, and electric utility taxes according to a report received by Historic City News.

Historic City News watched as more varied architectural styles south of King Street were approved — however, style in the historic core remains uncertain after hearing 1 1/2 hours of public comments before the city commission last night.

Historic City News has learned that Monday’s City Commission meeting will open with a public hearing on architectural style in the historic district and close with commissioners discussing a proposed building at St. George Street and Cathedral Place that ignited the style debate.

City Commissioners will take another look at staff efforts to close an estimated $1.7-$1.8 million shortfall in next year’s budget at a public workshop at 3:30 p.m. in the Alcazar Room on Monday.

Historic City News was notified that in honor of the 19th anniversary of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, Governor Charlie Crist has accepted the 2009 recommendations of the Governor’s Commission on Disabilities.

Michael Wanchick reported to Historic City News that beginning August 20, 2009, the Planning and Zoning Agency (PZA) will begin a monthly review of each Comprehensive Plan Element and goals, objectives, and policies.