BOCC Revisits Robinson Farms Density Change Vote

BRADENTON -- The Manatee Board of County Commissioners convened for a work session Thursday and revisited a controversial approval that was rulled to go before the DCA by an administrative law judge. The ALJ decision was based on the findings of one mistake after another, so it was sent to go before the DCA. Because of a new growth management law passed since, the ALJ decision would now go straight in front of the Governor's cabinet instead.

A motion was suggested by the BOCC to repeal the original decision so to prevent the ALJ opinion from going to the governor. That motion was made yesterday, but didn't come without further controversy. First, after Commissioner Joe McClash explained the string of misconduct in the process of making the decision and displayed the ALJ's confirmation of those mistakes, he suggested making the motion to correct the process. Chairwoman Commissioner Carol Whitmore, quickly voiced her objection to interfering to any legal process. Whitmore said "We are circumventing a process that is on its way to Tallahassee." Commissioner McClash explained what he was suggesting was a legal and available resolve to a process gone array.

Commissioner Joe McClash

Commissioner Michael Gallen, saw it as a local and safety issue, because it concerned "the coastal evacuation areas." Commissioner Donna Hayes was against any action, claiming she voted for Governor Scott and trusted he would do the right thing. Commissioner Bustle also warned of messing with a decision that had already been made. Commissioner John Chappie said, "Éwe'd be sending a message that we stand behind what the ALJ said."

County attorneys occasionally shared their views that there is trouble no matter what road we take. But It appeared McClash's view was the more popular. Commissioner McClash put forth a motion to have a public hearing on the matter, it was seconded and the vote was 5--2, Bustle and Hayes dissenting.

Click here to read the Administrative Law Judge's Decision

Read Dennis Maley's article for the complete story on the Robinson Farms density issue.