Zorc to propose lobbyist registration

Commentary

MILT THOMAS

The more Commissioner Tim Zorc tries to distance himself from Charlie Wilson, the closer they seem to grow. At next Tuesday’s County Commission meeting, Zorc will bring up the subject of registered lobbyists. The idea is to require that people who come before the Board of County Commissioners be registered with the state as lobbyists. The only registered lobbyist expected at the meeting is Charlie Wilson.

This subject was brought up before at the December 4, 2007 Commission meeting, at which Wilson made the same request for an ordinance that would require two procedures: 1. Where people could register and declare whom they represent and 2. To permit ex parte (one-on-one) conversations with commissioners.

Indian River County Commissioner Tim Zorc

In that meeting, another frequent supporter of Wilson proposals, Commissioner Wesley Davis, supported Wilson’s request.

Chairman Sandra Bowden at the time acknowledged this was the first time this subject had been brought forward and suggested commissioners “do their homework” to ponder a policy of ex parte (one-on-one meetings with commissioners) communications.

At the March 11, 2008 commission meeting under Commissioner Gary Wheeler’s items, the subject was again brought up. Wilson then advocated having the lobbyist registration process, referring to his suggestions as P.A.I.N. – Protection for the commissioners; Access for the public and business; Input by the commissioners; and Needs of the community for information.

After a lengthy discussion, no action was taken.

That was 2008. Now it appears Charlie Wilson is again requesting a policy regarding the lobbyist designation, a policy that would intend to protect and inform the public, but as Commissioner Wheeler said back in 2008, “No matter what the policy, people use the system to their advantage.”

At this point, lobbyist registration would seem to benefit Wilson directly, unless other lobbyists are in commission chambers next Tuesday advocating the same.

This subject will be discussed more in the coming days.

5 comments

Is this part of the “Truth Squad” mentality that this Wilson character is proposing with the Taxpayers Association? And, I might add, why is it that every thing that Commissioner Zorc brings forward somehow involves Charlie Wilson? If this proposal gets to first base with Zorc…..you can be sure it will get to second base with a nod from Commissioner Wesley Davis.

All lobbyists appearing at both city and county meetings should state their credentials before speaking at public meetings. One on one meetings between elected leaders and lobbyists are a bad idea. It seems some speaking at public meetings like to portray themselves as concerned citizens when in fact they are paid lobbyists. The public has a right to know .

Frank, how can we get them to state their credentials when they can’t even state their address?

Anthony, the city council and county commission must pass a rule that mandates” anyone who wishes to speak must give their address and not a PO Box Number” .