HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010 02 25 Letter Received From Thomas A. Binford Date: February 25, 2010
The attached letter from Mr. Thomas A. Binford was
distributed to the Winter Springs Ad Hoc Charter Review
Committee Members and discussed at the February 25,
2010 Meeting.
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RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE 2010 WINTER SPRINGS CH `,Z,r' K
REVISION COMMISSION...2 /18/2010
1. Replace appointed City Attorney with a City Attorney that is a city employee. The current
outlay of funds to the appointed City Attorney can more than fully fund an employee City Attorney
with secretary, office, supplies, etc. 2008 per capita legal fees for the cities of Lake Mary, Oviedo,
Altamonte Springs and Winter Springs were $3.24 ($48,400), $11.93 ($365,000), $13.68
($615,600) and $12.61 ($452,000), respectively. $452,000 would more than fully fund a City
Attorney department for the City of Winter Springs.
2. Delete the Mayor's position or make him a voting member of the City Commission and add
another City Commission member. Presently, the Mayor's city responsibilities are mundane and
could be handled by the City Manager. Make the Mayor's position answerable to the voters and add
another voting Commission member in order that there will be an odd number of votes and, thereby,
no tie votes.
3. Any increase in city ad valorem taxes or change in the City's pension plan should be
subjected to the voters by referendum for their approval. The citizens are in a much better position
to ascertain the value of such increases as they have a direct vested interest.
4. Requisite for persons appointed to membership on the Winter Springs Charter Revision
Committee should be a legal resident of the City AND /OR a real property owner of real property
located within the limits of the City of Winter Springs.
5. Under no circumstances should the City Commission require a vote of 4 Commissioners to
pass any legislative or regulatory act. A simple majority vote is the constitutional and democratic
method for the legislative body to operate. Control by the minority is unacceptable.
Respectfully submitted, 426 E. Hwy 434
Winter Springs, FL 32708
407 - 327 -5297
Thomas A. Binford tbinford @cfl.rr.com