NORTH REDINGTON BEACH – After serving as town attorney for more than 30 years, Edwin Peck announced his resignation at the North Redington Beach town hall meeting on Jan. 10.
Mayor Bill Queen led a standing ovation of applause for Peck’s “many years of service to the town.”
Peck, a graduate of Stetson University College of Law and a member of the Florida Bar, has been the town’s attorney since 1982. His prior municipal experience included serving as attorney regarding code enforcement issues for Redington Beach, Pinellas Park, Treasure Island and Indian Rocks Beach. He maintains a law office in downtown St. Petersburg.
“You (NRB Town Commission) are the best commissioners I have seen,” said Peck in a heartfelt farewell. Peck stated that he would stay on through the end of the month and be available to confer with the town’s new attorney.
At the town’s special meeting held that morning at 9:30, the Board of Commissioners voted to contract the legal services of Dunedin law firm Frazer, Hubbard, Brandt, Trask, Yacavone, Metz & Daigneault LLP effective at the conclusion of town attorney Edwin Peck’s tenure. The Dunedin law firm has been in business since 1973 and is currently serving in the capacity of town attorney for a number of local beach communities.
Trio to run unopposed
The town’s qualifying period for the March election came and went with incumbent Commissioners Richard Bennett (seat one), Gary Curtis (seat two) and Mayor Bill Queen the only candidates submitting their applications to run for office.
In running unopposed, the incumbents are deemed re-elected. The town will save approximately $3,000 by not having to conduct a municipal election on March 12.
Homestead exemption ordinance passes
On its second and final reading an ordinance passed pertaining to additional homestead exemption for persons 65 and older by increasing the additional exemption to $50,000 on properties assessed at less than $250,000 and the household income does not exceed certain limitations.
Also, during old business, an amendment to the town’s comprehensive plan passed on its second and final reading. It includes an update to the 10-year water supply facilities work plan providing fresh water to the town.
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