Dear Editor:
There has been an erosion of ethical campaign practices in our recent elections, bringing out the worst in some individuals. When candidates or groups are communicating with the public, they should be factual. The truth should not be stretched to better their position at the expense of other candidates.
This campaign has been extremely challenging in that respect. To say a Councilperson made decisions without stating that they had advice from staff, public, attorneys, experts and other members of Council, is an overstatement of their authority. It is not a Council of one but a body of five team members making decisions. To misrepresent a Councilperson’s desire to make the best decisions possible with the knowledge at hand, is not an accurate representation of the process. As time on Council passes, there is a learned skill on how to accomplish goals, using facts and knowledge to implement the desired changes needed for the Village.
Once at that point, a Councilperson is not starting from scratch, they are starting from experience. Experience leads to more successful decisions and greater teamwork. The Village code is a living document. What seems like the perfect solution with everyone agreeing, even during public comment, can change over time. As change occurs, then continued effectiveness of the code becomes apparent. When these situations occur, then adjustments to the code must be enacted, which may be challenging.
Solutions must be for the good of all, not for a small vocal or special interest group. Intentional harm or malice to any constituent never drives the decision making process. Recently some Council candidates and factions have misrepresented Council voting records which are available to all in public record. To disparage a person directly instead of expressing what your own skills are for office, is not a good quality for any candidate. To always be highly critical of others does not promote teamwork and is not heathy for our beautiful little Village.
Islamorada is a caring and compassionate place that always comes together during times of dire need. Historically we always help our neighbors here and in the surrounding towns when possible. The public and the Council need to continue this tradition and grow our legacy. Our Village is too precious to live divided.
Deb Gillis
Islamorada Council Candidate
