Armstrong steps down after 6 years
Former Redington Shores mayor retires, three other commissioners sworn in
By WAYNE AYERS
| Article published on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 |
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| From left, Lee Holmes, Bert Adams, and John Branch take the oath of office at swearing-in ceremonies March 11 in Redington Shores. Holmes is returning to the commission after having previously served, Adams is transitioning from commissioner to mayor, and Branch continues in his seat while taking on the role of vice mayor. |
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REDINGTON SHORES – Jody Armstrong ended six years of service as a town commissioner and mayor when she stepped down from public service at the town’s March 11 meeting.
She leaves as a popular figure and received a standing ovation from an overflow crowd following her farewell remarks.
Her replacement, Vice Mayor Bert Adams, was then sworn in, along with new District 4 Commissioner Lee Holmes.
Holmes was elected without opposition to the seat held by Commissioner Bob Holthaus, who chose not to run again. Adams also faced no opposition in his mayoral quest.
Holmes returns to the seat he vacated two-and-a-half years ago.
The commission appointed Tom Kapper to Adams’ District 1 seat. Kapper, a former commissioner who is currently chairman of the planning and zoning board, was the only applicant for the job. He previously made an unsuccessful run for mayor.
Holmes praised Kapper for his dedication to the town and predicted he will make an excellent commissioner.
Commissioner John Branch was appointed by Adams to serve as vice mayor. Adams said Branch “worked harder than anyone I have ever seen.” He cited the numerous hours Branch has spent at town hall and out on jobs. Branch is currently in charge of the town’s massive stormwater drainage project.
Before leaving, Armstrong spoke of the accomplishments that have taken place during her years on the commission. The biggest, she said, was the undergrounding of town utilities, followed by the stormwater project. Her personal favorite is a turtle lighting ordinance she championed, which she said helps the endangered species to survive.
Controversy, which she termed “angst,” has also been present. Armstrong had strong words for pier owner Tony Antonious who has feuded with the town over the years.
Not long ago, Antonious removed the town’s name from his pier, saying it didn’t deserve the honor. Armstrong turned that sentiment around, saying Antonious did not deserve to have the town’s name on his structure.
She labeled a group of condo owners wanting control of a public beach access “a band of pirates.”
Squabbles aside, Armstrong viewed her years of service as a positive experience. “It has been my honor to serve you,” she said. “It has been an adventure.”
She urged the upcoming commission to protect and respect the fragile beach environment, promote tourism, and to read and follow the town’s comprehensive plan.
Residents warned of EMS impact
An increase in emergency response time can be expected if the planned closure of an EMS unit located in Redington Shores takes place, Commissioner Casey Wojcik said.
Response to calls would then have to come from units located on the mainland or in Madeira Beach.
“Common sense says that the EMS crews are not going to respond as fast coming across the bridge or from Madeira as they will from here,” Wojcik said.
Branch was even more emphatic about the consequences of a longer wait for emergency care. Victims needing a defibrillator “better have their cemetery lots picked out,” he said.
Elimination of fire and EMS facilities is part of a county consolidation plan that will be discussed at a county commission meeting to be held at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, March 20, in the commission’s assembly room at the county courthouse in Clearwater. The proposed closures are part of the budget cuts being considered by the county.
Wojcik urged concerned residents to attend the meeting and let their views be heard.
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Article published on Tuesday, March 17, 2009
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