Sunday, January 5, 2014

Sunday January 5, 2014

St. Pete
The swearing of council members and the new mayor was a resounding success. By all accounts it will set a new tone for the City administration and future administrations. Having a clear direction will make a big difference for both the City staff and for the community in general.

I heard a little carping about the use of City workers to set up the outdoor ceremony, but I really think it was worth whatever the small cost may be to make bold and definitive statement that things are going to change.

Police Chief Harmon Retires
Formal retirement ceremonies for Police Chief Chuck Harmon will be Monday 1:30PM at Police Headquarters 1300 First Avenue North.

The Pier
It was exciting to hear the new Mayor indicate that the fence was coming down and the Pier will once more be accessible.  Why don’t you grab a fishing pole or just go down for a walk around the Pier head. It is a great experience and wonderful view.

Congressional District 13 Race

The primary race for Bill Young’s congressional seat rolls along.  David Jolly is the front runner in fund raising. Kate Bradshaw, Tribune Staff,  Jolly far ahead in fundraising among GOP candidates for Young’s former seat provides some additional insight.

Mail in ballot receipts are running ahead of expectations.  Be sure to find your ballot and mail it in, or make plans to vote on January 14.

Looking Forward

In St. Petersburg there is a lot to do and the new administration has said they are up to the task. Some of the new Mayor’s staffing decisions have been very good some have been questionable. In government the old saw “perception is reality” is usually true.

The Office of the Mayor is a new bold move and its staffing could have been a bit more considerate. The Mayor’s choices for his new office have already drawn considerable scrutiny.

The whole concept of the office of the Mayor was Mayor Kriseman wanted people around him he could trust. The fact is the rest of the staff and the public in general need to trust and respect the office of the Mayor for it to be successful. For the most part the real proof will lie in the results.

e-mail Doc at: dr.webb@verizon.net, or send me a Facebook (Gene Webb)Friend request. See More of Doc at Bay Post Internet and St.PetePatch.

Get ready to vote "NO" on the Transportation Sales Tax Referendum.

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