Sunday January 19, 2014 How important are the Neighborhoods - Really?

Arguably Wednesday night's CONA (Council of Neighborhood Associations) meeting was one of the most important meetings in the first 100 days of the new Kriseman administration.

The Neighborhoods and CONA will set the stage and be the true implementers of any neighborhood renaissance that the Kriseman administration and this City Council manage to create.

There were more people at this CONA meeting than any of the recent past. The parking lot at the Sunshine Center was full.

When it came time for the swearing in officers and new president Lisa Wheeler-Brown, Mayor Kriseman was there, Darden Rice was there, Karl Nurse was there and from the City staff so were Mike Dove and Susan Ajoc

Where were Council Members Kennedy, Gerdes, Kornell, Foster, Newton and Council Chair Dudley?

They sure show up when they are looking for votes.

Also notable missing were Deputy Mayor Kanika Tomalin, Chief of Staff Kevin King, Director of Urban Affairs Nikki Gaskin-Capehart and interim Police Chief Dave DeKay.

Kriseman or King should light a fire under the senior staff.

Interestingly there were no major media representatives or reporters, including the St. Petersburg Tribune and the Tampa Bay Times present. This new day in neighborhoods could use some media support.

For the first time in a long time there was excitement on the faces in the room. They believe something really great is about to happen.

Some support from the elected officials and City staff would go a long way in keeping that excitement alive.

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