Issues for 2011

Jeff,
It sure seems like the council has stirred up a hornet's nest - here's my take. Those who did not appreciate being locked out of the council chambers without the outside sound turned on have a legitimite gripe. The outside speakers were on several times when Rainbow River Ranch's logging was being discussed. I feel the meeting should have been rescheduled and held in a proper size venue (only one that size I am aware of is the Methodist Church).
We have an election coming up and the last two were not held as folks ran unopposed for their seats. Also, the last ballot issue was for the sake of a few dollars did we want to dilute our franchise and review what the council does on a 4 year cycle rather than two. Voters bought into that and gave up their say.
So, now we have Rainbow Springs folks mad at the council and ready to take it out on Dunnellon by boycotting Greenlight and businesses (sure there are some that see through all of that). I have not seen much of the discussion from the Juliette Falls and R.S. utilities on why they believe it is a win for them. Possibly they should find a large venue as well and lay out their reasoning.
This year I personally have taken up some of Harold Horne's time (Planning Director) learning about the longer range plans to make Dunnellon something more than a wide spot on US 41. It is ambitious and involves some risk and assistance from state and Federal governments. If it comes to pass we will all be better off.
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