Collection bins

Dear Editor:

I am a fan of the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army is one of the few charities that uses most of their money for their clients, not administration. They do good work and a lot of it.

So, six months ago, when one of their hard-working volunteers showed up at the Deerfield Beach commission meeting and asked permission to place bins for clothing donations, I was all for it. I was shocked to hear the commission turn them down, citing a regulation against outdoor storage.

Look around the city and you will see many clothing donation bins. How do those people get away with it? That is what I asked the commission. Shortly after my question, there was a flurry of activity by code enforcement, which had some property owners receiving warnings about the bins, and some bins being removed, and I am told, just as quickly replaced. Someone is making money off of used clothing most people think is going to charity.

The local Kiwanis Club (which has at least one Deerfield Beach commissioner as a member) has placed quite a number of shoe collection bins around the city. They have not been removed. Would this be selective enforcement, the city seems to be winking at this violation?

So what? Well, it is not right that for-profit companies and a favored charity should get away with having bins, and another charity, that takes the legal route of asking permission, should not.

Deerfield Beach commission did agree to work on an ordinance that would allow charity bins to be placed on the property of not-for-profit organizations, and they agreed to enforce the ordinance against the placement of the bogus bins. Let’s see how that has worked out.

The city is still winking at the Kiwanis shoe collection bins, the bogus bin collection people are still plunking down bins around town, we have no new ordinance to allow charity bins, and the mayor e-mailed me that: “The city does not have staff to go out and pick them up or the money. Trust me, they are showing up everywhere.”

The city should do what the law says and get rid of the violating bins — or, they could just allow all bins everywhere with the property owner’s permission, why not? That is what is happening now and there is no great unsightly mess as feared by those who have banned the bins. The commission needs to decide, but the Kiwanis Club should not get preferred treatment that the Salvation Army is not getting. Property owners should be notified and cited if they allow the bins. I am getting tired of hearing how hard it is to police and how hard it is to remove the bins. If it is a law, ENFORCE IT, quit the hypocrisy. And, it is time for the city commission to insist that the clothing bin ordinance be eliminated – or revised, and passed.

Bett Willett

Deerfield Beach

RE: Collection bins

16 donation bins were removed after the city notified the property owner that removal was their right and responsibility. Two bins (at 3701 W. Hillsboro Blvd. and at 3313 W. Hillsboro Blvd.) remain out of compliance. In the case of the latter, a different bin at this location had been removed in March. The property owner will be responsible for removal of this new one, as well.

An ordinance has been drafted, which would prohibit donation bins except at properties owned and operated by a permission granting non-profit entity. However, staff is concerned about the bureaucratic details of implementing and enforcing a permitting process for donation bins. Before deciding whether to present the ordinance for consideration, staff was monitoring the results of the outreach and enforcement effort, which was initiated earlier this year.

The city had one commercial property owner inquire whether they could lease space to the bin provider for a percentage of the proceeds the bin provider received. The city replied that it was open to discussing a site plan amendment to allow it. However, the property owner decided on their own not to pursue it after weighing the pros (revenues, good cause) and cons (maintenance, access, security, liability and aesthetics).

Code Enforcement’s efforts in this regard have been very successful. However, the initial effort was focused on larger containers, not the shoe donation containers. Our efforts to ensure that these smaller shoe containers comply with City Code have recently been initiated. These shoe donation containers are located at several places in the city, but you will soon see them being removed, as well.

Keven Klopp

Assistant City Manager & CRA Director

Deerfield Beach

Rash of truck thefts

Dear Editor:

I would like to reach out to all the residents in the area and let them be aware of the rash of auto thefts that have been occurring in the immediate vicinity. Two of my neighbors on opposite corners had their pick-up trucks stolen within weeks of one another and, last night, I became the latest victim of auto theft right from my own driveway.

I not only lost my work vehicle, but also the tools with which I make my living. The officer answering the call was polite and professional, letting me know that basically, there isn’t much they can do and the possibility of me recovering my truck and tools is slim to none.

I read the publication each issue [of the Observer] and enjoy all the information and recommendations your newspaper provides.

I believe you ran an article about how we can better protect ourselves in our own homes. Maybe you could re-issue a short reminder, as we head into the summer months, when many residents head out-of-town on vacation.

Let us all continue to look out for each other as a community. Even when we are home, we need to stay vigilant. Please remember to lock your doors and keep valuables out of sight. Always lock your vehicle and report any suspicious activity to the local police.

Dan O’Brien

Lighthouse Point

Enclave at Hillsboro Beach – request for support

Dear Editor:

Since 1923, Hillsboro Beach has hosted one of the nation’s premier private clubs with a location, facilities and membership of the highest caliber.

Currently, there is an opportunity for Hillsboro Beach to add another jewel in its crown, burnishing the town’s reputation as the prestigious and selective oasis of tranquility in South Florida.

An ultra-luxury destination boutique hotel and spa of the likes of a Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Waldorf-Astoria or Shangri-La strives for and maintains a low-impact serene and sophisticated presence. Focused on the majestic Atlantic Ocean, guests can enjoy seclusion, serenity and rejuvenation throughout the property, including its lush landscaping, pools and spa.

The property consists of 11.212 acres, stretching from the Intracoastal Waterway on the west, to the Atlantic Ocean on the east, with S.R. A-1-A approximately bisecting the property. Current zoning is RM-16. Applicant/property owner is requesting approval for up to 358 hotel rooms/suites.

In order to build and operate such an attractive complex, it would be necessary for the destination resort operation to have access to unrestricted water resources for the extremely lush and beautiful landscaping and green area required for such a project.

Therefore, it is proposed that the project would build, at no cost to the town, a desalination water plant designed for double the capacity of the existing town water plant. It is expected that because the source of this water is the Atlantic Ocean, an unlimited resource, that normal water restrictions which affect the rest of South Florida would not be applicable to the Town of Hillsboro Beach or its residents, resulting in a “Green Hillsboro” instead of a “Brown Hillsboro.” The project would contract to supply water to the town for 15 years without water rate increases, which the residents have been experiencing over the past few years.

It is proposed that this could be built behind the existing police dept. building, paying de-minimus rent, freeing up the existing town-owned water plant facility and saving the town the expense of further upgrades and replacements of that facility and the major water pipes running along Sample Road and under the Intracoastal. At the end of the 15-year contracted period, the desalination plant would be transferred to the town for free.

In addition, the project would guarantee to replace any utility supply lines required to be repaired or upgraded within the town during the life of the operation of the desalination plant at a savings to the town of at least 30 percent less than any other bidder, and would also install conduit for FPL electric lines to be buried at the time of any such repair or replacement (reducing problems of overhead electrical wire damage during storms).

John Kennelly

Hillsboro Beach

Graduation ceremonies not what they used to be

Dear Editor:

I think these are sad times we live in when kids graduate and you, as a proud parent or close family, cannot cheer for your loved ones. I’ve read or heard a lot of stories this week about parents or even the graduate themselves getting in trouble for cheering too loud.

I even heard about one woman who was arrested!

I wasn’t there, but it seems a little over the top. Even [members of] the Naval Academy still can throw their hats, a long-time tradition, but that’s our downfall.

All the good traditions are fading, but what the heck? Instead of church Sunday morning let’s all go for a drink at 8 a.m. at the beach so the restaurants don’t go out of business.

Steven J. Fabrizio

Deerfield Beach

Thanks for Little League coverage!

Dear Editor:

Instead of feeling sad that we had to miss the Deerfield Beach Little League Championship game in which two of our grandsons were participating, we got to see the whole thing on the Internet last week, thanks to you.

Can you imagine what it felt like for grandparents to see their grandchildren play baseball nationwide? Especially when one of them, Kyle Petri, 12, was not only the winning pitcher but also part of a triple play that ended the game in his team’s favor, 8 – 5, and especially when the other one, Ben Petri, 10, stole home for two of the winning runs?

And to top it all off, our son Steven, a U.S. Dept. of Justice lawyer, was the winning acting coach.

How much more perfect can it be than that – thanks to you!

Ann and Bill Petri,

McLean, VA

Don’t let criminals ruin your Summer fun!

Dear Editor:

As our thoughts turn to relaxation and family fun this summer, keep in mind that thieves and burglars don’t take vacations from criminal activity. Stay vigilant about protecting your home, your belongings and your identity. Don’t let crime ruin your summer fun.

The best advice is to stay alert. Be aware of what’s going on in your neighborhood. Never hesitate to report suspicious activity to law enforcement.

If you notice activity at your neighbors’ house when you know they are away on vacation, call 911 immediately. Your tip might be the one that helps BSO detectives catch up to an otherwise elusive burglar.

If you notice someone lurking around cars in a parking lot, phone in that tip.

If you recognize a suspect from a surveillance video, call Crime Stoppers of Broward County. You may remain anonymous, and Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest. Teaming up and keeping the lines of communication open between law enforcement and observant residents is the best defense against criminals.

At home, lock your doors and don’t forget to arm your alarm systems if you have them. When you are out and about, lock your car doors and never keep valuables in plain view. It only takes a few seconds for a car burglar to grab your purse, wallet or cell phone from your car while you step away to walk your dog, pay for gas or put flowers at a gravesite. Don’t make it easier for criminals by leaving a door unlocked.

Thinking of making some repairs before a hurricane approaches? Be wary of unlicensed contractors. They might take your money and run, do sub-standard work or have a criminal history. To make sure the workers in your home are licensed, visit the Florida Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation’s website at www.myfloridalicense.com.

Be suspicious of anyone who shows up at your door uninvited. Sometimes, criminals knock first, and they can be very charming. They might ask for a drink, for directions, to use the phone, or say they were sent to do work at your house. These are common tactics of scam artists and thieves. If you weren’t expecting them, don’t let them in!

Make your house look occupied when you are out. Leave a television or radio on, or set some lamps on timers.

If you go away, stop your newspaper delivery and have someone collect your mail. You can even deter burglars with your landscaping. Plant some thorny bushes under windows that might make an illegal entry difficult. Trim back foliage that might block the view of your home from the street, and add some outdoor lighting so that criminals can’t operate unnoticed.

Once you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself, your belongings and your family, you can relax and enjoy a fun and safe summer.

Sheriff Al Lamberti

Broward Sheriff’s Office

Alcohol sales on Sundays

Dear Editor:

I will be out of town [June 5], when they decide [whether] to let people buy booze on Sunday morning.

I moved to Deerfield Beach in 1972 and since then, people told me they were going to change the name from Deerfield Beach to Beerfield Beach. We here are always within reach of a bar or store that sells alcohol and never go thirsty.

How many more halfway houses and rehabs do we need here? We are sending the wrong message. ‘Come to Deerfield if you need a drink on the way to church. You can get it, no problem!’

Oh well, there is not a household here, I don’t think, that wasn’t somehow in some way affected by a drunk! Think. Was it a member of your family, a friend, or a complete stranger who almost killed you in a car?

[Mothers Against Drunk Driving] MADD is not a social club. These are serious people trying to help people. The restaurant is serving great food. People will go for the food, not booze.

I really respect your newspaper. You always influence people to do the right thing.

Alcohol is really very slick. It takes on many faces and people will defend it to the death and, it does kill.

I hope [the city commission] will step up, and not be quick about this vote!

John Morrell

Hillsboro Beach

Political ads

Dear Editor:

There’s currently an ad running on TV dealing with the President’s Healthcare Act.

This ad tells half-truths and complete lies. They also try to tear apart the reputation of Senator Bill Nelson.

Senator Nelson is a well-meaning, professional and caring public servant. While this ad appears to be sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce, it is not. It is sponsored by the National Chamber of Commerce and attacks only Democrats. It obviously is a political pact. Be aware that the only ones represented by this group are international and big business.

If I were a member of a local Chamber of Commerce, I would be very concerned that local citizens would feel that I belonged to a biased group and would treat me and my business accordingly. Please be aware of what you are hearing and seeing during this insane political season.

Demand that your representatives are just that, representing you and that country you love.

Don’t listen to anyone who is more interested in furthering the interests of a political party over the interests and needs of our population and our country.

Take heart. This will ultimately end, and hopefully our politicians will take their oaths of office seriously.

Etta Schaeffer

Boca Raton

David Royse, with the News Service of Florida, reported over this past weekend that the Florida Division of Elections plans to verify the eligibility of nearly 180,000 registered voters in the state. Earlier last week, state election officials forwarded the names of about 2,600 registered voters whose citizenship is questionable to local supervisors of elections for further scrutiny.

Whenever a foreign citizen who is a resident in Florida applies for a driver’s license, they are automatically asked if they wish to register to vote. No attempt is made to confirm that the person is a U.S. citizen and many of them respond in the affirmative – without understanding the question – and suddenly become registered voters. When election time rolls around, they receive a ballot to vote by mail and if they do not know any better, they may then vote illegally.

I recently attended a party at a neighbor’s home and I met a young man originally from Nicaragua who has an application for U.S. citizenship pending. Somehow we got on the subject of politics and he told me that he was once sent a ballot to vote, even though he was not yet a citizen. He knew better and, therefore, did not cast the ballot. He wondered out loud how many other noncitizens may have received the same ballot and ended up voting.

Over 30 percent of the residents in Broward County have come here from a foreign country. Many have become citizens and many have not. Our democracy is in jeopardy whenever a non-citizen casts a ballot in one of our elections. This is potentially a big problem that needs to be fixed immediately.

If you agree and love this country, you need to get involved. Tomorrow may be too late.

David Eller

Publisher

RE: Relay coverage

Dear Editor:

Just a quick “thank you” to Diane Emeott for the front page coverage and photos of the Relay For Life at Quiet Waters Park in your May 10 edition, as well as your pre-event coverage in your May 3 edition. It was excellent! We appreciate your continuing support of Relay For Life!

Pat Erb

Relay For Life of Deerfield Beach,

Lighthouse Point and Hillsboro Beach

Deerfield Senior softball player turns 90 on Friday!

Dear Editor:

My Dad, Tony Soto, will be celebrating his 90th birthday this Friday, May 18, doing what he loves the most – catching for his team at Pioneer Park from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.Four generations of our family will be there to cheer him on from as far away as Las Vegas!

My name is Bobbie Lent, a former Deerfield resident for 19years. I raised my family on SE 7 Avenue. Dad has been playing with the Deerfield team for 10 years when he spends the winters with me, but he “started” his softball career at age75 up in Clifton Park, NY.

He hadn’t played ball since high school! He had devoted all his time and talents to raising his girls, my sister and I, and being a loving husband to my mom.

He is and was the best dad any daughter could ask for –fun and friendly, with a style all his own. We are so blessed.He has taught all three grandchildren and two great-grands how to sing “Take me out to the Ballgame” by the time they were 2! I could go on and on…

Does he look like an athlete? Well, no. Can he run the bases anymore? No, he has a pinch runner. Can he bat and hit?Absolutely.Come out and see for yourself! HE IS NOT YOUR AVERAGE 90 YEAR OLD.

Bobbie Lent

Boca Raton

Reconciliation is essential to protecting American security

Dear Editor:

My Republican colleagues and I in the U. S. House of Representatives have voted on and approved a clear and concise plan that will carry the American economy into the next decade, by trimming $180 billion off the United States deficit. These savings are imperative in creating jobs for the American people, by eliminating the massive burden our country’s debt and deficit have placed on American families.

This Reconciliation plan is essential to offset the automatic cuts to our nation’s military set to go into effect in January2013.

If the House-approved Reconciliation plan is not passed and put into law, the Dept. of Defense will see severe, 10percent cuts and shrink to its smallest size since before the Second World War. Under the current sequestration law, the cuts to the nation’s defense capabilities would result in:

• The smallest ground force since 1940

• The smallest fleet of ships since 1915

• The smallest tactical fighter force in the history of the Air Force

At a time when our country is still at war with Afghanistan and facing increased threats from Iran, North Korea, unrest in the Middle East, and a rising China, reducing our military is dangerous, irresponsible and puts the national security of America at risk. With recent reports of a thrwarted terrorist plan against America, it is absurd to think that reducing our defense is safe for American families.

In contrast, Democrats have failed to offer any credible solutions to put our country back on track. Instead, the President insists on taking more money from hardworking families and small businesses, while building up the class of economically-dependent Americans. Senate Democrats have failed to pass a budget in more than 1,000 days, a crucial blueprint for going forward, which proves they do not have a plan, or are simply not interested in the future of the American economy.

As one of the only members of Congress who has actually served on a battlefield, I am increasingly disheartened by the

lack of understanding from leaders as to how the United States military functions and/or what is needed for its continued success.

The American military cannot continue to be the billpayer for America’s economic hardships and failed policies.

Congressman Allen West

U.S. House of Representatives,District 22

RE: Money spent on fireworks

Dear Editor:

When reading the [4-26-12] Observer, I noticed on the front page an article describing the 4th of July and Founders’ Days celebrations. I was surprised to read about the high cost of these events and feel the money could have been donated to the disabled veterans. Because of the bad economy, a donation like this would make more sense than to blow it in the air, and it would look great for Deerfield Beach.

Hans R. Paetzold

Deerfield Beach

RE: Cove CrimeWatch mtg.

Dear Editor:

I read with some dismay the comments in the 4-26-12 Letter to the Editor concerning The Cove Crime Watch meeting [on April 19].

First, the 911 router can immediately put one through to the appropriate dispatch, which she did. The homeowner is an ideal person to call 911 because they can advise dispatch of points of ingress and egress from the home, the presence of any pets, and any unique characteristics of the home.

Second, we can cure stupidity through education and awareness. It is not only our right, but our responsibility to question our leaders and law enforcement when the facts demand that we do so. Any crime in our neighborhood affects us as a community, and the right to discuss and air our grievances is sacrosanct. It is ironic that the only lack of civility occurred afterwards on the pages of the community newspaper.

Lastly, we all appreciate the time and energy that BSO puts into protecting us. However, public discourse is NOT about taking everything one hears at face value. I am confident that BSO can handle themselves in the face of criticism and that they want the system to run better. The writer of the Letter to the Editor does not know all the facts and should be more judicious before labeling good, honest and intelligent citizens with invectives such as “rude,” “stupid” and “childish.” None of those words nor any of their ilk were uttered at the meeting. That’s the sort of dialogue we just don’t need and which brings down this community.

Helen Leen Miranda

Deerfield Beach

Bladder Cancer

Dear Editor:

Bladder cancer is the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, yet most people know nothing about it. This lack of public awareness leaves many bladder cancer survivors feeling isolated and alone, and is the main reason why there is so little support for research on bladder cancer and the lack of advancement in treatment over the past 20 years.

Last year, over 70,000 people in the United States were diagnosed with bladder cancer and over 14,000 people died from it.

Bladder cancer has a recurrence rate of 50-80 percent and, because it requires life-long surveillance, is the most expensive cancer to treat on a per patient basis.

It is estimated that $2.9 billion is spent in the U.S. each year on the treatment of bladder cancer.

May 5 is National Bladder Cancer Awareness Day. We hope everyone can join us on Las Olas Boulevard to walk and raise awareness of this deadly disease. Proceeds raised will go toward funds for bladder cancer research and education.

As the daughter of a cancer survivor, I want to be sure that everyone knows to go see a doctor if they notice blood in their urine or have urinary urgency or frequency. I also want to be sure that no one has to go through their bladder cancer journey alone.

The Bladder Cancer Awareness Day walk will, with help from the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (www.bcan. org), raise awareness of this under-recognized disease and help improve research into more effective treatment and find a cure for bladder cancer.

For further details, contact us at 954-612-0097 or 954- 687-0097.

Sarah M. Bogdan

Deerfield Beach

Editor’s note: Also, locally in Deerfield Beach this weekend, the annual Relay for Life raises funds for American Cancer Society.

“Paul and Young Ron Show”

Dear Editor:

The City of Deerfield Beach’s recent decision to seek public input regarding its existing prohibition against Sunday morning alcohol sales was discussed early last week during the “Paul and Young Ron Show” on South Florida radio station 105.9FM.

The DJs specifically expressed their aspirations of speaking with me about the topic. They made their objection to the existing prohibition abundantly clear. Likewise, most constituents who have contacted me about it agree such prohibitions are “behind the times” so to speak – and they are, in many ways correct. While my final position on the matter will be stated at the time of the vote and not before, in response to the radio show’s inquiry, I feel obligated to express a few observations about the topic now:

1. Before taking down a wall, one should have a full understanding of what it was put up to protect against in the first place.
2. 2) There is Great Value in providing an opportunity for public input. The law has been around for decades. Providing a few weeks for our constituents to express their thoughts about it is only proper.
3. 3) At this time, when The Cove neighborhood is trying to protect their families and property values from a drug-andalcohol rehab center with nine addicts residing in a singlefamily home, many constituents are rightly concerned about the loss of Traditional Values in our society in general, and specifically about the lack of respect for a day that many of us reserve to Honor God.

4) Our businesses here in Deerfield Beach deserve to be on an equal playing field with surrounding communities.

As a follower of Christ and a believer in the Bible, I can understand how these so-called “Blue Laws” came about. I also Know that I am Saved by GOD’s Grace and my Personal Faith, and not by Works. I think Tim Tebow has it correct as he tries to get people to open the Bible to John 3:16. Those 25 words are the essence of the Gospel, not the Blue Laws!

Joseph P. Miller

District 1 commissioner Deerfield Beach

Cove Crime Watch meeting

Dear Editor:

I attended the Crime Watch meeting forThe Cove area last Thursday night [April 19]. A large number of BSO staff from the Deerfield area attended. They were all very informative, professional people.

Initially, the meeting was a positive exchange between residents and the BSO team.

I was appalled at the behavior of a few of the residents. Childish outbursts, argumentative towards the BSO staff, rude comments and behavior were all a part of the remainder of the meeting.

I hope these meetings continue and I truly appreciate the time and energy BSO puts into protecting our neighborhood.

For those of you who cannot conduct yourselves in proper adult behavior, don’t come and disrupt what could be a very long-lasting, productive relationship between BSO and our residents. Furthermore, let your neighbors know to call BSO if there are robbers in your house – NOT another neighbor that’s 50 miles away. NOBODY can help STUPIDITY.

Mary House

Deerfield Beach

“Thank-you” to CERT

Dear Editor:

April 15-21 marked National Volunteer Week. On behalf of the Deerfield Beach Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), I would like to thank each of our CERT volunteers for your hard work and dedication this past year. Because of each of you, our team has become one of the most recognized and respected teams in the area.

We have responded to fires in our city to assist with firefighter rehab and canteen services, we have been asked to assist Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) in missing person searches, we have kept up our skills with continual training, and we have participated in community activities. We have even been requested for Mutual Aid for a missing person search in Pembroke Pines! Our work is appreciated by Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue, BSO law enforcement, our city commission and our city management. As a team, CERT is a vital asset to our community. All that each of you do is greatly appreciated. THANK YOU!

If anyone is interested in becoming a member of CERT, e-mail CSjursen@bellsouth.net or call 954-803-6338.

Carol Sjursen

Deerfield Beach

RE: DB Commission responds to citizen comment

Dear Editor:

In a recent [Letter, 4-12-12, Observer] by the  , they claimed they do not routinely respond to comments made by a resident during a commission meeting.

A resident? They were referring to the former Mayor JeanRobb, and they claimed that her comments were so outrageousthat they had to respond. Yet, there are much moreimportant issues that have been brought before the commission that have yet to see the light of day:

A) A resident was the victim of a hit-and-run at anintersection where the lighting is inadequate. The CRArecently purchased a [circuit board] in The Cove ShoppingCenter to light up a Christmas tree. Isn’t it more importantto light the area where the young person was killed, especiallywhen the cost for such a project would be $3,000 to$5,000?

B) Ignoring the savings of $50,000 by refusing to movethe municipal election to November 2012 from March 2013.Are they afraid of a bigger turnout that just might cost themtheir seats? The commission has refused to put it on theagenda for a vote, so the voters can see just which commissionersdon’t care about saving the taxpayers money.

C) And who on the commission wrote the full-page letter?And which of the commissioners were part of this retaliatoryaction? Was their getting together to put the letter togetheran obvious violation of the Sunshine law? Time will tell when the state attorney is made aware of the circumstancessurrounding the creation of this full-page letter.

Steve Krevoy

Deerfield Beach

Dear Editor:

A recent letter from the Deerfield commission referred to citizen comment. Those comments were made by me, former mayor Jean M. Robb.

The commission chose to dismiss my claim that Carl Pete rhad been brought to Deerfield Beach by former manager Larry Deetjen and was supposed to retire at age 62 after five years. I verified the accuracy of that statement with a call to Larry Deetjen. He knew Carl from Grand Rapids, Michigan and had encouraged him to come to Deerfield for five years.Former mayor Al Capellini disclosed his conversation with Mike Mahaney over the hiring of Charles DaBrusco as anAsst. Engineer in 2007. Capellini was told that Carl was soon to retire and DaBrusco would become the Chief Engineer.

When the city lost the mediation after the firing of 106workers, my question was: ‘why didn’t the Human Services person follow the Employees’ Rules and Regulation Handbook?’The city’s reply was he was only onboard for two weeks prior to the mass firing. Wasn’t that enough time for him to read the book? Instead of being terminated, the person responsible for the debacle was given a $40,000raise.My assertion was that the CRA director who was hired should ethically not have taken another position with the same municipality.

My assertion was based on conversations with the CRA directors in a number of counties.

I also stated that in the 13 years I served as mayor, I had four different city managers, none of whom had assistants.The city claims Deerfield was smaller then. Yes, we had40,000 compared to the present 75,000, but we did not have50 percent of our budget being handled by BSO. So why do we need a manager, an assistant city manager, an executive to the city manager and an administrative support specialist?

The city’s reply is that the city manager is still responsible for overseeing law enforcement and fire-rescue operations.I thought that is what Sheriff Lamberti, Chief De Jesus and Chief Sudler were being paid to do.

The city claims that the article [which appeared in another local newspaper] stating that the city wanted to squeeze more money from city employees was inaccurate and incomplete.The commission [also] said that without economic concessions, the city could not have been able to reduce the millage rate by 1 mill. Wasn’t that the reasoning they gave us behind the passage of the utility tax? Which is it?

It is difficult to keep track of all the information this commission has fed us. We were told that the city would save $2 million with the BSO merger. They have now changed that figure to $1.5 million.

The city was doing the merger to get out of the pension business. Yet 100 firefighters chose to stay with Deerfield’s system so the city will be out of the pension business in the next 60 to 70 years.

As to why the BSO merger had to take place so fast,without public input, it was because six firefighters who were in the DROP plan would have had to retire. With the BSO merger, those six could remain and eventually dip into the BSO plan.

The commission seems to think I no longer support the merger. That is simply not true, but the contract does have some stipulations that should have been more thoroughly debated before passage, in particular, the DROP plan recipient.

Permit me to comment on the vice mayor’s performance at the public hearing of the PMSA appeal. It was like watching someone pull the wings off a fly, and no one on the dais had the good sense to say “Enough is Enough.”

It disturbs me that whoever wrote the recently-published city response did not have the courtesy to refer to me as the former mayor, not just as the resident. It is a title I earned after 13 years of service, and not using it shows a real lack of class.

Jean Robb

Deerfield Beach