Letters
Letters to the editor, Feb. 19
TBO.com
Published: February 19, 2012
Stabins needs to goPublished: February 19, 2012
In the Feb. 2 edition of Hernando Today a thought provoking front page story, "Recruiting the top boss" concerns appointment of the county's ninth administrator since 1984.
In my opinion, the latest exited administrator David Hamilton and I might add an effective one; was hounded out of office by an irresponsible, eldritch, acerbic, county commissioner "court jester" Jeff Stabins who is up for re-election in District 1. Contested by Joseph Swilley, Michael Berman and Regina Werder-McGuire.
It remains incumbent upon the Hernando Board of County Commissioners and the entire community to prioritize the enigmatic Stabins issue prior administrator appointment. Otherwise, a qualified, experienced and trained-specific local government administrator will be difficult if not impossible to attract. Indeed, a given when merged with our unfortunate industry reputation for swift turnover and uncommon elected public official turmoil in the county government workplace.
According to veteran Hernando County newspaperman Larry Clifton; "Stabins wrote Hamilton a letter accusing him of being cavalier, conniving and cold-hearted. He followed up by attempting to create a DVD ridiculing Hamilton titled "reign of David Hamilton" complete with Star Wars background music."
Clifton continued; "I think its' time to order a psychological evaluation to determine whether Stabins is fit to serve…someone in Hernando County should file a formal request to the governor's office to remove him from the Board of County Commissioners."
That said, it seems appropriate to recall The Hernando County Government Directory of Services Mission Statement; "The mission of Hernando County is to provide and enhance quality programs, services and facilities that reflect the goals of the community while always promoting health, safety and public welfare and quality of life for our citizens."
As reported in Hernando Today on Sept. 16; "County Commissioner Jeff Stabins' roommate filed a restraining order against his landlord Friday, saying he is in fear of his life.
Michael Garoffolo, who has been renting one of the three bedrooms in Stabins' home since January, filed a petition for injunction with the clerk of the court's office. Garoffolo had asked that Stabins be made to stay away from him for at least 30 days, giving him time to find safer living conditions."
Is it any wonder that such the herein reprehensible behavior involving a sitting county commissioner is exhausting the community's patience? Unquestionably, a direct result of his consistent, quirky, "off the reservation" actions. And, the foregoing is but a tip of the vociferous Stabins iceberg! Keep in mind, that from this man's "chair" his vote could negatively affect all residents of Hernando County now & ad infinitum!
Why retain a professional fee based search firm at $21,500? We have a competent Administrator of Services in-house in Human Resources Director Cheryl Marsden, earning $95,000 a year plus juicy perks. She is equipped with the necessary familiarity/know-how of the county and all of West Central Florida.
Marsden could handily manage the search simultaneously saving the county from the above referenced fee! Will anyone know the "personalities" better than Cheryl Marsden?
Furthermore, let's have another look at savvy/skilled acting County Administrator Ron Pianta who represents a potential major investment in a stable future for Hernando County government.
With intelligent, honest probing, current government center department head Pianta could rethink his initial disinterest in the permanent position.
County Chief Procurement Officer Russell Wetherington is clearly anxious to apply for the job. I would like to learn more about him too. Wouldn't you? C'mon Hernando County we are in the 21st century aren't we?
Chuck Schlakman
Spring Hill
Ron Paul is the answer
Ron Paul is unleashing vital truth that is opening many blinded eyes. Paul is very relevant to the national predicament we, ourselves, are in today.
Congressman Paul prophesized what conditions would result way back in 2002 before Congress. It is truly amazing, blessed truth has been ignored by the federal government all because they march to the tune of socialist communism, not biblical values of divinity inspired freedom and liberty.
If you go online, you will find that people of all backgrounds are learning and listening to Paul. Contrary to what the mainstream news outlets portray Paul meetings, they filled the overflowing and more and more people are learning how our founders meant for this nation to be governed.
Paul believes in our Constitution and enforces its guidelines and God's laws. We need to overcome this present political system and return to the system our founders gave their lives for. Our chance is with Ron Paul, perhaps our only chance.
Vernon Carles
Spring Hill