“Neither was any aspect of the Vero Electric issue designated as a specific item for discussion, primarily because the bias and controversy on both sides of the issue often precludes serious discussion. Exempting this issue allowed the IRNA to better understand the candidates and focus on land use and other issues mentioned above for which this organization was organized and has served the entire population of the County in exemplary fashion for many years.”

NEWS RELEASE

The Indian River Neighborhood Association is pleased to announce Amelia Graves and Dick Winger have been endorsed for election to the Vero Beach City Council. Both Ms. Graves and Mr. Winger are incumbents seeking re-election.

There is a total of five candidates vying for election for two open seats and the IRNA sincerely appreciates all the candidates participating in the interview process which was formatted to simply discuss specific issues: the Lagoon, City-owned properties, the City’s finances, high speed rail, the airport, business districts and coordinating with other governments, councils and commissions on matters of mutual interest.

Specifically exempt from the discussion was short-term, transient rentals because the incumbents were scheduled for quasi-judicial proceedings on this matter. This decision for the exemption was made in an abundance of caution so as not to violate the Florida Sunshine Laws and fairness to the other candidates who would be the only ones discussing this matter.

Neither was any aspect of the Vero Electric issue designated as a specific item for discussion, primarily because the bias and controversy on both sides of the issue often precludes serious discussion. Exempting this issue allowed the IRNA to better understand the candidates and focus on land use and other issues mentioned above for which this organization was organized and has served the entire population of the County in exemplary fashion for many years.

Amelia Graves and Dick Winger stood out from the other candidates because of their references to seeking consensus for positive results on challenging matters, as well as their respect for process and others on Council. Each agreed there was benefit to be gained from cooperating with other governments on matters of mutual interest and both felt very strongly about public participation in land use planning for city properties.

In making these endorsements, the IRNA takes no position on the electric issue about which there are strongly held and possibly irreconcilable positions. Our recommendations are based exclusively upon our judgement that Dick Winger and Amelia Graves are the best candidates to serve the City based on their knowledge of the issues which we believe are important, experience, temperament, and other relevant factors.

These endorsed candidates will be speaking at an IRNA luncheon in October and everyone will have an opportunity to learn more from them. Luncheon details will be announced soon.