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HNS REPORTS---MARCH 10, 2010
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HERNANDO JANUARY UNEMPLOYMENT TAKES BIG JUMP
Experts have noted problems with the jobless statistics, which don't count unemployed people who are no longer actively looking for work. Other officials have suggested that the state measurements don't give a true picture of local unemployment and that the 15.7 percent number might actually overstate the problem.
BROOKSVILLE MAN JAILED ON MOLESTATION CHARGES
A 72-year old Brooksville man is being held Wednesday on charges of lewd and lascivious molestation in connection with sexual incidents involving a 15-year old girl. Billie Earl Futrell of 15052 Copeland Way allegedly fondled the girl on at least two occasions and told her in e-mails that he wanted to make love to her. An arrest affidavit says Futrell admitted the incidents and e-mail under questioning and was arrested Tuesday. He was also charged with electronic transfer of material harmful to a minor.
SPRING HILL MAN CHARGED WITH ASSAULTING FATHER
NEW FIRE COMMISSIONER RESIGNS FIRE POLICE LEADERSHIP POST
CHAPLAIN'S WEBSITE RAISED AGAIN AT FIRE BOARD MEETING
COMMISSIONERS WANT JAIL ANSWERS NEXT MONTH
Nugent said CCA's jail budget has increased recently at twice the rate of his own budget. He said he expected to be able to return money to the county, instead of CCA profits leaving the county. Nugent said he didn't think CCA was doing anything wrong, and he said he appreciated CCA allowing a review of their financial records.
CCA officials took up most of a row in the commission chambers behind Nugent and offered to share financial details of jail operation with commissioners as well. They said recent experience in Bay County with sheriff takeover of a former CCA jail showed an increase of $3 million in the jail budget, though Nugent said that after two years Bay County actually saved a million dollars. And CCA officials also said they would expect return of some of their investment in the jail if the contract for its operation is terminated early.
After hearing from both sides and the public, the County Board asked staff to come back with more information on costs and process within 30 days. The 120-day termination clause in the current contract means notice is needed by June 1 if a local takeover of the jail is to be effective with the new budget year that begins October 1.
COUNTY, DREDGE CONSULTANT COMPROMISE ON CHANGE ORDER
COMMISSIONERS WANT CHANGES IN BUILDING PERMIT FEE PROPOSAL
County commissioners balked Tuesday at raising home improvement building permit fees across the board, but they said they wanted to see a revised fee schedule later that would hike permit fees for luxury items while holding the line on other fees. Commissioner David Russell, a pool contractor, said he thought that building department budget concerns could be met if pool permit fees were raised. He suggested that necessary repairs like air conditioning, roofing and dors and windows should be exempted from any increase.
Development Director Mike McHugh said without the fee hikes the building department could run out of money later this year. Commission chair John Druzbick noted there were really no good options...increase fees and keep services, reduce workforce and provide less service, or find some necessity permits to exempt. Druzbick also noted that neighboring counties and the City of Brooksville already had higher fees in place. Commissioners told McHugh to come back later with a revised fee schedule with no increases for necessary improvements and higher fees for luxuries.
RECYCLING PICK-UPS CUT IN HALF, HAULER PACTS EXTENDED
Commissioners also okayed a lease of the recycling facility at the county landfill to SP Recycling Corporation. Stapf said privatizing the facility would save the county up to $100,000 a year. He said he also hoped the new operator would hire not only former county employees but also create new jobs.
SUPPLIER TRUMPETS GREEN ENERGY AT WEEKI WACHEE HIGH
Chillers work with the IceBank tanks to make ice at night when energy costs are significantly lower. The low-cost stored energy aids the chiller the next day to cool the buildings during peak demand. The combined campuses require 2,200 total tons of cooling capacity. By combining the two central cooling plants into one and adding ice storage, designers were able to reduce the purchased chiller capacity to 1,200 tons. The hybrid cooling system with ice storage reduced not only the HVAC equipment size and refrigerant required for the project but also the peak energy consumption for the campus. The energy storage tanks are estimated to save 10 percent of the school's annual electricity costs.
CALMAC says its tanks are part of what it calls this unique "high school as a small town" design concept. Three academic neighborhoods, an administration and media civic center, athletic and dining facilities and a performing arts town center are clustered around a central landscaped courtyard. The ice storage system is an integral part of the overall energy efficiency of the campus buildings, all running off of one central plant.
BILL APPROVING RED LIGHT CAMERAS ADVANCES IN TALLAHASSEE
The Orlando Sentinel reports Tuesday that a state bill which would let cities and counties statewide use cameras to catch red-light runners was given a green light by the Florida House of Representative’s Health Care Regulation Policy Committee. House Bill 325, sponsored by state Rep. Ron Reagan, R-Bradenton, would clarify whether or not cities can use remote cameras to catch and fine red-light runners. It’s a controversial practice that the state Attorney General’s Office has concluded is illegal under current state laws, but which dozens of cities and counties including Brooksville use anyway, based on loopholes. The proposed state law would expand where the red-light cameras can go, and create statewide rules on how cities would use them, and what kinds of equipment they could use. Existing programs like Brooksville’s would get grandfathered.
PUBLIC HELP SOUGHT IN LOCATING THEFT SUSPECTS
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The three subjects pictured above are suspects in a theft that occurred at
Bed Bath and Beyond, 7187 Coastal Bv., Brooksville, on Wednesday,
03-03-10, at 4:00 p.m. The subjects fled the area in an orange
unknown make sport utility vehicle. If you recognize these subjects, notify
District 1 Deputy Junker. If you wish to remain anonymous or to be eligible
for a reward, call the Hernando County Crime Stoppers toll free number 1-866-990-8477 or you may email your tip by clicking below. | ||
HNS REPORTS---MARCH 9, 2010
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Nugent said CCA's jail budget has increased recently at twice the rate of his own budget. He said he expected to be able to return money to the county, instead of CCA profits leaving the county. Nugent said he didn't think CCA was doing anything wrong, and he said he appreciated CCA allowing a review of their financial records.
CCA officials took up most of a row in the commission chambers and offered to share financial details of jail operation with commissioners as well. They said recent experience in Bay County with sheriff takeover of a former CCA jail showed an increase of $3 million in the jail budget, though Nugent said that after two years that Bay County actually saved a million dollars. And CCA also said they would expect return of some of their investment in the jail if the contract for its operation is terminated early.
After hearing from both sides and the public, the County Board asked staff to come back with more information on costs and process within 30 days.
MURDER SUSPECT KALISZ PLEADS NOT GUILTY
COUNTY, DREDGE CONSULTANT COMPROMISE ON CHANGE ORDER
County officials and dredge consultant Halcrow have reached a compromise in the dispute over the consultant's latest change order request. Halcrow had sought almost $800,000 in additional money, based on late changes in permits for seagrass mitigation. County officials had claimed that the request was out of line and said only about $420,000 was justified. Now Halcrow has written a letter to the county agreeing to take $553,000 as a lump sum for the additional work. The letter reportedly confirms a compromise reached at a meeting last week between county staff and Halcrow representatives. Meanwhile, the dredge project remains on hold pending state regulators' verdict on a new spoil de-watering process aimed at trying to comply with state permit requirements.
COMMISSIONERS WANT CHANGES IN BUILDING PERMIT FEE PROPOSAL
County commissioners balked Tuesday at raising home improvement building permit fees across the board, but they said they wanted to see a revised fee schedule later that would hike permit fees for luxury items while holding the line on other fees. Commissioner David Russell, a pool contractor, said he thought that building department budget concerns could be met if pool permits were raised. He suggested that necessary repairs like air conditioning, roofing and dors and windows should be exempted from any increase. Development Director Mike McHugh said without the fee hikes the building department could run out of money later this year. Commission chair John Druzbick noted there were really no good options...increase fees and keep services, reduce workforce and provide less service, or find some necessity permits to exempt. Druzbick also noted that neighboring counties and the City of Brooksville already had higher fees ihn place. Commissioners told McHugh to come back later with a revised fee schedule with no increases for necessary improvements and higher fees for luxuries.
DECISION SOUGHT ON JUDICIAL CENTER COMMITTEE
TWO TEENAGERS CHARGED IN HERNANDO HIGH SEXUAL ASSAULT
Brooksville police said Monday they arrested a juvenile who just turned 15 for lewd and lascivious molestation of a 15-year old victim whose name and gender were not released. Police say a second juvenile was charged with battery for grabbing the victim's arm during the altercation at Hernando High School last Thursday. Police say they were called to the scene by school officials after the incident was reported. A police media release says both juveniles have admitted that the victim was molested in a sexual manner.
SUPPLIER TRUMPETS GREEN ENERGY AT WEEKI WACHEE HIGH
Chillers work with the IceBank tanks to make ice at night when energy costs are significantly lower. The low-cost stored energy aids the chiller the next day to cool the buildings during peak demand. The combined campuses require 2,200 total tons of cooling capacity. By combining the two central cooling plants into one and adding ice storage, designers were able to reduce the purchased chiller capacity to 1,200 tons. The hybrid cooling system with ice storage reduced not only the HVAC equipment size and refrigerant required for the project but also the peak energy consumption for the campus. The energy storage tanks are estimated to save 10 percent of the school's annual electricity costs.
CALMAC says its tanks are part of what it calls this unique "high school as a small town" design concept. Three academic neighborhoods, an administration and media civic center, athletic and dining facilities and a performing arts town center are clustered around a central landscaped courtyard. The ice storage system is an integral part of the overall energy efficiency of the campus buildings, all running off of one central plant.
FASANO SAYS LICENSE PLATE ADS COULD MAKE STATE MONEY
As Fasano envisions it, companies would pay a fee, and drivers could get a break on the cost of plates by using the company’s logo. The Palm Beach Post noted Monday that this is probably another attempt to generate money for the state. But a Post staffer writes on a legislative blog that the idea is a good one. It’s all voluntary, says the blogger, and seems like it would do no harm.
Fasano said the idea could generate money for the state. He plans to bring legislation to his colleagues during a hearing this week in Tallahassee.
WEBINAR OFFERS PUBLIC CHANCE TO ATTEND MEETING ON COMPUTER
The Hernando County Metropolitan Planning Organization will host a satellite location for an informatinal webinar on the 2060 Florida Transportation Plan on Wednesday from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m, at the Hernando County Planning Department Conference Room in the Government Center. During 2010, the Florida Department of Transportation and its partners will be updating the Florida Transportation Plan. The 2060 Plan for all of Florida includes local, regional, and state partners who make decisions about future transportation investments affecting safety, security, preservation, and mobility needs.
MPO staff are encouraging the public to participate in the interactive forum. Interested citizens with access to a computer and internet connection may register for the free webinar at www.2060ftp.org. Citizens without access to a computer are invited to attend the host satellite location above.
HNS REPORTS---MARCH 8, 2010
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PLAN BOARD SAYS YES TO TWO RE-ZONINGS, NO TO A THIRD
Other items approved by the P and Z were a welding and auto shop on Jacqueline Drive and conservation zoning on the county's Peck Sink Preserve.
COAT BOARD LOOKS AT REGULATING BOAT PARKING IN YARDS
The COAT board also postponed a discussion of regulating digital electronic billboards until next month, and they also heard that county building officials have instituted a limited program for allowing an early start to work on some projects in advance of all permitting being in place. Several board members had suggested an early start process as a way to get the local construction industry going again.
SPRING HILL GUNPLAY NETS MAN TRIP TO JAIL
BROOKSVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR HITTING WOMAN WITH TOOL
TAMPA TEEN CHARGED WITH THROWING ROCK AT PATROL CAR
POT SELLING, FLEEING CHARGES LEVELED IN WEEKEND ARREST
PROPOSED DPW AUDITOR DRAWS FIRE
COUNTY COULD SAVE BIG BUCKS WITH BI-WEEKLY RECYCLING
Stapf's recycling proposal is part of a recommendation to extend current garbage hauler franchise contracts by a year. Those agreement are due to expire later this year, and Stapf says more time is needed before deciding the next step in solid waste collection. The Utilities Director has said in the past that he would like to see county-wide mandatory collection and recycling, but it's not clear how the recommendation to cut Spring Hill recycling plays into those plans.
CRITICS SAY RED LIGHT CAMERA POLL-TAKER HAS BIAS
City officials say the red light cameras at five intersections are for safety. The city expects about $800,000 in revenue from camera fines this year. Use of the cameras has come under fire in both the courts and the Florida Legislature.
SMALL FIRE AT GOVERNMENT CENTER EXTINGUISHED
Later Sunday county officials said the fire was caused by an electrical short and sent thick smoke throughout the atrium area. A media release says a professional cleaning company cleaned the affected area, but a lingering burned electrical odor remains. Officials said computers and communications in the Law Library office may be down Monday as a result of the fire, but all other operations in the Government Center should be unaffected.
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BRUSH FIRES KEEP COUNTY FIREFIGHTERS BUSY
Later in the afternoon firefighters responded again to a brush fire near the Cortez Blvd.-Remington Road intersection. Scene reports indicated a travel trailer was burned and another mobile home was threatened. At last report the fire had been controlled. Assistant Chief Frank DeFrancesco said Hernando County Fire Rescue units were called out to a total of five small brush fires in all on Sunday. He said each one grew from a smaller fire started by property owners burning brush and debris on their own land.
Meanwhile, the National Weather Service says a Red Flag Warning remains in effect through 6 p.m. Monday for Hernando County. A Red Flag Warning is issued when very favorable conditions for wildfire spread are occurring or will occur within 24 hours.
COUNTY OFFERING TOURS OF PRESERVE PROPERTIES
The Hernando County Environmentally Sensitive Lands Program is offering an opportunity for the public to participate in a series of four leisurely walking tours of its preserves and projects. ESL staffer Jim King says participants will observe scarce natural plant communities, animal tracks in the sand and learn about the human and natural history of the areas. Residents are invited to enjoy a series of four guided tours of what King calls Hernando County’s special places—Cypress Lakes Preserve, Fickett Hammock Preserve, Peck Sink Preserve and Bayport Park. Space is limited, and reservations are required. King can be reached at 352-754-4057, extension 28020 or e-mail to jking@hernandocounty.us
HNS WEEKEND---MARCH 6-7, 2010
HERNANDO NEWS SOURCE COMMENTARY
We're not going to answer these questions directly, but the topic serves to introduce some personal anecdotes and some conjecture about an informed---or uninformed, as the case may be---public.
In the summer of 1998 a new assistant county attorney arrives in Brooksville. He becomes only the second full-time attorney in the "Legal Department," which occupied a small suite of offices next to the commissioners on the fourth floor of the government center. His first major assignment: write an ordinance regulating solicitors in rights-of-way. After presenting the ordinance at a board meeting, commissioners take a recess. A reporter for one of the two papers that cover the county approaches the new attorney. As he does so, one commissioner leans over to tell the new attorney he did a good job. Another commissioner is a few feet to the rear on his way out of the room. The reporter flashes a quizzical look and turns to leave.
A few minutes later the attorney gets a phone call from an editor at the reporter's paper. He wants a comment on why the Sunshine Law was violated. The attorney can only think of a brief elevator ride with two commissioners who made small talk and didn't violate any laws, so he said so.
The next morning the attorney's photo stares back from the front page of the paper while a headline writer asks whether the Sunshine Law was violated when the commissioner said "Good job" within earshot of a second commissioner. The suggestion in the story was that a violation occurred.
A few years later the same attorney is assigned to sit in on a speaker-phone interview of a commissioner by a reporter. There are at least four other witnesses in the room. They all hear the commissioner's responses to the reporter's questions and read with disbelief in the next day's paper that the commissioner said "X" when all clearly heard him say "Not X." The attorney refused to talk to that reporter other than in writing for almost two years afterward.
Reporters and editors aren't perfect...Hernando News Source not excepted. But these anecdotes illustrate two things...first, editors decide story emphasis; and second, reporters make mistakes that are sometimes hard to dismiss as honest.
Unfortunately the news judgment displayed as to story selection and page play by the editor is often very misguided as to what is truly important to a well-informed readership. Some of the blame for that must frankly go to readers, who seem to prefer, as a recent example, prominent treatment of a marauding monkey and back page coverage of actions in the state Legislature that will affect many more people.
Even more unfortunately, reporters sometimes seem as if they hear what they want to hear, not what they actually hear. Even if the quote is correct, if it's one or two sentences from a 15 or 20 minute interview, it's almost certainly out of context and likely unhelpful to readers trying to inform themselves. It was probably chosen to make a better story.
These anecdotes are intended as a caution, to readers and viewers of news, whether on paper, TV or web. Questions need to be asked about what you read and what you see. Why is it presented that way? Is there more information needed to reach a truly informed judgment?
News is presented in the way that it is in an attempt to get eyes or ears for advertising. Some media try to report what the public needs to know, but too many fall into the trap of giving the public what it wants to know...there is a difference.
Now here's what you need to know from this collection of stories appearing first or only this week at Hernando News Source, beginning with an Agenda Preview for next Tuesday's County Board meeting, followed by a review of the top news from Monday through Friday for the past week:
BCC AGENDA PREVIEW
ADMINISTRATOR: AUDIT DPW, START SCOPING JUDICIAL CENTER
Hamilton says the $98 million Public Works budget demands a careful analysis before permanent hiring of a replacement for the fired department director is done. The administrator's memo to the County Board for action next week does not specify the amount of payment to Milliman for the audit.
Hamilton is also asking commissioners to let him move forward with appointment of a "Scoping Group" to come up with a set of criteria for a stand-alone single entrance secure courthouse facility. Other terms for the group would be that the project cost no more than $20 million including land in or adjacent to downtown Brooksville and that local contractors and jobs be factored in. He's recommending Chris Wert, an engineer in the Public Works Department, lead the group to include other county officials, a judge and Clerk Karen Nicolai. If the County Board approves, the group would be charged with preparing a design criteria package that could be advertised for building proposals.
STAPF: EXTEND HAULER CONTRACTS, CUT CURBSIDE RECYCLING
County garbage haulers would get a one-year contract extension, current recycling customers would see service cut from once a week to once every two weeks, and the county recycling subsidy would be cut by 75% if the County Board approves staff recommendations next week.
McHUGH: APPLY FOR GOOGLE HIGH SPEED INTERNET
BUILDING DEPARTMENT WANTS TO HIKE SOME PERMIT FEES
On the same day next week that business development staff will talk about permitting issues, the Development Services Department is asking to increase some of its fees. Jodi Singer says the fee schedule for incidental or accessory type permits such as roofing and pools is not producing enough revenue for the department to cover its costs in reviewing and issuing those permits. The department is funded solely by fees and does not use taxpayer dollars. Singer says the proposed new schedule would raise about $130,000 in revenue to cover the department's enterprise fund budget. Fees would go up 30 to 35 percent for most of the incidental or accessory permits if the new fees are approved.
WEEK IN REVIEW:
MONDAY
CITY COUNCIL APPROVES SOUTH BROOKSVILLE RESOLUTION
But Commissioner Rose Rocco, who has chaired the Community Initiatives Team pushing for action, said she thinks that the two local governments working together can enhance the city and with that the county. She said south Brooksville revitalization could spur economic development in both the city and county. Now the CIT and community leaders will await the final form of the interlocal agreement and work to get the money needed. County Administrator David Hamilton has said he would recommend to the County Board that the county cover any debt obligations incurred by the city in the project.
BROOKSVILLE COUNCIL CONCERNED WITH ABANDONED APARTMENTS
CLINTON BOULEVARD BECOMES MYLANDER WAY
The Brooksville City Council approved a name change for a portion of Clinton Blvd. on the city's west side at their meeting Monday night. The part of the road from Cortez Blvd. west past the Hernando County Sheriff's Office will now be called Sheriff Mylander Way. That's a slight change from the proposed "boulevard" but council members said it was appropriate since the retired sheriff usually ran things his "way."
In a nod to local developer Gary Grubbs, who named Clinton many years ago after one of his children, the part of the street east of Cortez to Providence Blvd. at the county building department offices will remain as "Clinton Drive."
BROOKSVILLE MOVES TOWARD FIRE ASSESSMENTS
Brooksville property owners may soon see a new charge on their tax bill. City council members unanimously approved on first reading an ordinance change on first reading that would allow fire rescue assessments on property tax bills. City officials said they weren't ready to recommend assessments yet, but the ordinance allows them to come back to council in May or June with more facts and figures.
The ordinance was proposed so that all properties in the city contribute to fire rescue costs. Currently properties that are fully or mostly exempt don't pay their share for fire rescue services. Chief Tim Mossgrove says the average home will probably see a small decrease in the total bill, although it would be more for lower value homes with exemptions and for higher value homes.
PERMITS UP IN FEBRUARY, BUT SO ARE FORECLOSURES
Foreclosure stats from the clerk's office show an increase in new cases from the previous month. The 251 cases are well above January's 235, but also below the level from February of last year, when 282 foreclosures were filed. Taken together the monthly foreclosure statistics for this year and last year don't seem to show any significant trends.
TUESDAY
COUNTY WORKSHOP EXPLORES RADIOS, JAIL COSTS
And a plan to put minor offenders with weekend jail sentences to work on community service projects will come back to the County Board again for more consideration. It's estimated the plan, which is modeled after programs in other counties, could save up to $55,000 yearly on jail costs.
SPRING HILL BURGLAR CAUGHT ON VIDEO
An arrest affidavit says a Spring Hill man was charged with burglary after a neighbor set up a hidden video camera and recorded the man removing prescription drugs from a dresser drawer. Deputies then arrested 36-year old Jason Nelson of 12383 Spreading Oaks Drive and booked him into the Hernando County Jail. Nelson's neighbor said he suspected someone was entering his home while he was gone and taking his prescription drugs. Monday he hid a video camera in a closet, went to he dentist, and returned to find Nelson on tape taking five pills from a prescription bottle. The affidavit says Nelson admitted the crime and had already ingested the pills.
SCHOOL BOARD HOSTS SPECIAL GUEST AT WORKSHOP
WEDNESDAY
REEF PROJECT DELAYS HAVE PORT AUTHORITY MEMBERS ANGRY
Hernando County Port Authority chairman Chuck Morton listened to County Administrator David Hamilton say a delayed artificial reef project would have to wait for the stalled dredge to finish and said "Dammit, I'm really fed up." Morton slammed his gavel on a table at Wednesday night's meeting and told Hamilton that the project couldn't wait.
Hamilton had explained that the county would need to hold a permit for the project and staff needed to focus on getting the dredge done now. But Morton and authority member Jim McFarlane said the simple process of opening a permit needed to be done now to line up for grant funding for next year. McFarlane even displayed a permit form that was already partly filled out and said it was "frustrating to spend a year on it and find ourselves moving backward" and that he was "very disappointed.
Hamilton suggested that the authority formally request that the County Board take steps now to obtain the permit, and the authority moved unanimously to do that. Hamilton said "we'll get started tonight" and penciled in a March 23 date for consideration of the project by the board.
PORT AUTHORITY HEARS NEW DREDGE PLANS BUT NO DATE TO RESUME
Goebel said the dredging cannot resume until regulators respond, though she said they have promised to expedite their answer. Because of a lack of tests of the anti-coagulant material, some of the de-watered spoil may have to be disposed of in a landfill, either the county's landfill or a construction and demolition debris facility. She also said the new plans still contemplate a project within budget.
The Port Authority voted to approve a resolution to the County Board urging the board to ask legislators to extend a funding deadline of June 30. Goebel said legislative contacts so far have her and other county officials optimistic that the date can be moved and state funding saved.
E-VERIFY STUDY CITES INACCURACIES, LACK OF FRAUD DETECTION
A report in the Wolters and Kluwer employment law publication CCH said this week that 54 percent of undocumented workers submitted through the federal government’s E-Verify system receive an inaccurate finding of being work authorized. The finding comes from a study by Westat, a contract research organization that evaluated the program for the Department of Homeland Security. Westat said the study results were not surprising, noting that since E-Verify’s inception it has been clear many undocumented workers obtain employment by committing identity fraud that cannot be detected by the system.
Critics of the Westat study say the report uses old data and that newer figures give E-Verify a better grade for error rates. And they pointed to pending legislation that say would make the program stronger and more efficient.
Hernando County commissioners asked staff Tuesday to research the E-Verify program for possible local use. The matter is slated for more discussion at a County Board workshop in April.
CCA IN THE BLACK DESPITE ISSUES, CONTRACT LOSSES
The Journal reported this week that the company’s stock has steadily risen since it released its fourth-quarter and full-year earnings report on Feb. 9 and announced a $250 million stock repurchase program. The company’s shares have risen from $17.83 at that time to close last week at $21.32.
The loss of the Kentucky contract, however, would join other recent losses — including contracts with the federal Bureau of Prisons and the state of Arizona — that led the company to predict lower earnings in 2010. The company also lost a Florida contract two years ago when the Bay County sheriff in Panama City took over his county's jail operations from CCA.
SPRING HILL LEGISLATOR SEEKS 9-1-1 CALL EXEMPTION
State Representative Robert Schenck is defending a bill to block the release of 911 tapes and exempt them as public records. The bill will be heard next week in a House council. Schenck is the bill's sponsor, and he denied the proposal should be called the Tiger Woods Protection Act.
Schenck said victims need protection from the trauma of hearing the 9-1-1 calls aired on TV and radio.
Tapes of 911 calls made following Woods' November car crash outside of his Florida home fueled the ongoing story of the top professional golfer's affairs and marital problems. Those tapes were released under provisions of the state's public records law.
Schenck said the bill proposed by the House Governmental Affairs Policy Committee he chairs is not a response to the Woods situation.
Recordings of 911 calls that are now open to the public---minus names, addresses and other identifying information---would be closed by the bill if it became law. Instead, transcripts of the calls would be made available within 60 days of a request. Schenck said his proposal protects victim privacy while maintaining watchdog purposes, but open-government advocates disagree.
THURSDAY
JUDGE WON'T WORK WITH COUNTY ON PLAN FOR WEEKEND INMATES
Circuit Judge Jack Springstead said Thursday that he was not inclined to hand out any 30-day county jail sentences if there was a possibility that those sentences would not be served in jail. Most 30-day sentences come with the option of serving time on weekends only, and Hernando County officials are looking at a program that would put weekend offenders to work in the community to save up to $55,000 a year in jail costs. Springstead apparently doesn't like that idea. In comments about a plea bargain for a 30-day sentence, Springstead said he was not prepared to "have the county modify sentences" handed down by the courts and would not commit to a 30-day sentence if it meant potentially no actual jail time. The statements by the county's busiest criminal court judge could torpedo the county's cost-saving plan.
GROW HOUSE RENTER GETS PROBATION
A 58-year old Cuban national who was charged with running a marijuana grow house on Moon Road in December will serve only three years of probation. Alfredo Abad pleaded no contest to the charges in circuit court Thursday after his lawyer and prosecutors worked out a plea deal. Attorney James Brown said Abad was leasing the home and allowed others to use him and his residence for a marijuana cultivation scheme. Brown told Judge Jack Springstead that Abad was not an active participant in the pot growing scheme, had a clean record otherwise, and deserved the break.
PROBATION, BIG RESTITUTION BILL FOR LOWE'S EX-MANAGER
A former zone manager for Lowe's home improvement stores was sentenced to 10 years of probation Thursday and ordered to pay restitution of $30,000 for his part in a scheme to steal from the Lowe's store in Brooksville. James Goldberg of Spring Hill pleaded no contest to a charge of dealing in stolen property. He was originally accused of grand theft as well, but that charge was dropped as part of the plea deal. Goldberg and two other men were arrested in June of last year and charged in the theft of $70,000 in store merchandise. The plea deal will require Goldberg to testify against the other suspects in any trial.
INMATE CHOOSES "FRYING PAN" OVER JUMP INTO "FIRE"
Frank was sentenced for lewd and lascivious molestation involving two children aged four and five. His 2007 conviction was more than four years from the date of the crime in 2003. He challenged the sentence because the four-year limitations statute had run and won his appeal.
But when prosecutor Brian Trehey told Frank's lawyers that he could still be charged with capital sexual battery, which has no statute of limitations and a potential sentence of life in prison, Frank dropped his request to set aside the sentence. Family members say he could be released from his original prison term as early as April of next year.
FRIDAY
BROOKSVILLE TRUMPETS SURVEY BACKING CAMERAS
The Brooksville Police Department usually updates the media on criminal cases at its city website, but Friday the lead item was not about crime. Instead the department was noting the results of a recent public opinion survey that says 72% of Floridians support red light cameras. The city currently uses a vendor's cameras to monitor traffic at five intersections and issues ordinance violation notices that cost $125 each for running a red light or turning without a full stop. The program is the subject of controversy and litigation,, though officials defend the cameras for promoting safety, while generating about $800,000 a year in city revenue.
The survey by Public Opinion Strategies says that though 72% of respondents said they support red light cameras, only 65% said they thought the cameras improved safety. Results of the poll were announced by a group called the STOP Red Light Running Coalition of Florida. Meanwhile, competing bills in the Florida Legislature would either ban cameras or allow them where the revenue is shared with the state.
RESIDENTS ANTICIPATE LANDFILL FIGHT AS APPEAL DEADLINE ARRIVES
Residents say the local roads will not support the truck triaffic and the landfill site poses a danger of leaching toxic materials into groundwater in the rural area, which has no public water supply. They have also asked the county for help in their fight, though it's unclear how much the county can do, since the permit approval followed litigation between the county and the landfill operator over the parameters of a settlement approving the use. Many are critical of the county for abandoning a settlement provision restricting the depth of material deposit, but county attorneys said that was a matter for state regulators to decide.
INSIDERS WARN FEDERAL WATER QUALITY RULING WILL IMPACT COUNTY
Proposed clean water standards for Hernando area waterways are unattainable, according to sources briefed recently on a draft 20-year Water Quality standard. If approved by the federal Environmental Protection Agency, state regulators could be made responsible for reducing excessive nitrogen levels in the Weeki Wachee River and other local waterways. The proposed standard for dissolved nitrogen is .35 mg/liter. Latest readings show the Weeki Wachee nitrogen level is more than twice the proposed standard, at .79 mg/liter. Other waterways are in even worse shape...the Rainbow River in Marion County reportedly has a dissolved nitrogen level of more than 2 mg/liter.
It's unclear exactly how the new lower standards would be applied or enforced, although ultimately it could impact new development and construction in areas affecting a waterway's nitrogen level. Experts say the high nitrogen level in the Weeki Wachee is largely a product of excessive fertilization and septic tanks in Spring Hill, which sits atop the west end of the Weeki Wachee springshed. Sources also suggest the federal water quality standard could lead to state or local controls over fertilizer applications, allowed lawn grass types, or mandated new septic systems.
HNS REPORTS---MARCH 5, 2010
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ADMINISTRATOR WANTS AUDIT OF PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Hamilton says the $98 million Public Works budget demands a careful analysis before permanent hiring of a replacement for the fired department director is done. The administrator's memo to the County Board for action next week does not specify the amount of payment to Milliman for the audit.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT WANTS HIGHER ACCESSORY PERMIT FEES
RECYCLING CUTS IN PROPOSED GARBAGE HAULERS' CONTRACT EXTENSION
County garbage haulers would get a one-year contract extension, current recycling customers would see service cut from once a week to once every two weeks, and the county recycling subsidy would be cut by 75% if the County Board approves staff recommendations next week. Utilities Director Joe Stapf says there's not enough time to bid new contracts to replace the ones now in force through September of this year. He's asking commissioners to approve the extension and the recycling changes. If the board gives the okay, recycling changes would take effect in April.
COUNTY TO CONSIDER APPLICATION FOR HIGH SPEED GOOGLE INTERNET
BROOKSVILLE TRUMPETS SURVEY BACKING CAMERAS
The survey by Public Opinion Strategies says that though 72% of respondents said they support red light cameras, only 65% said they thought the cameras improved safety. Results of the poll were announced by a group called the STOP Red Light Running Coalition of Florida. Meanwhile, competing bills in the Florida Legislature would either ban cameras or allow them where the revenue is shared with the state.
THREE JUVENILES ARRESTED IN CITY STORE BURGLARY
JUDGE WON'T WORK WITH COUNTY ON PLAN FOR WEEKEND INMATES
Circuit Judge Jack Springstead said Thursday that he was not inclined to hand out any 30-day county jail sentences if there was a possibility that those sentences would not be served in jail. Most 30-day sentences come with the option of serving time on weekends only, and Hernando County officials are looking at a program that would put weekend offenders to work in the community to save up to $55,000 a year in jail costs. Springstead apparently doesn't like that idea. In comments about a plea bargain for a 30-day sentence, Springstead said he was not prepared to "have the county modify sentences" handed down by the courts and would not commit to a 30-day sentence if it meant potentially no actual jail time. The statements by the county's busiest criminal court judge could torpedo the county's cost-saving plan.
RESIDENTS ANTICIPATE LANDFILL FIGHT AS APPEAL DEADLINE ARRIVES
Residents say the local roads will not support the truck triaffic and the landfill site poses a danger of leaching toxic materials into groundwater in the rural area, which has no public water supply. They have also asked the county for help in their fight, though it's unclear how much the county can do, since the permit approval followed litigation between the county and the landfill operator over the parameters of a settlement approving the use. Many are critical of the county for abandoning a settlement provision restricting the depth of material deposit, but county attorneys said that was a matter for state regulators to decide.
INSIDERS WARN FEDERAL WATER QUALITY RULING WILL IMPACT COUNTY
It's unclear exactly how the new lower standards would be applied or enforced, although ultimately it could impact new development and construction in areas affecting a waterway's nitrogen level. Experts say the high nitrogen level in the Weeki Wachee is largely a product of excessive fertilization and septic tanks in Spring Hill, which sits atop the west end of the Weeki Wachee springshed. Sources also suggest the federal water quality standard could lead to state or local controls over fertilizer applications, allowed lawn grass types, or mandated new septic systems.
INMATE CHOOSES TO STAY IN "FRYING PAN" RATHER THAN JUMP INTO FIRE
Frank was sentenced for lewd and lascivious molestation involving two children aged four and five. His 2007 conviction was more than four years from the date of the crime in 2003. He challenged the sentence because the four-year limitations statute had run and won his appeal.
But when prosecutor Brian Trehey told Frank's lawyers that he could still be charged with capital sexual battery, which has no statute of limitations and a potential sentence of life in prison, Frank dropped his request to set aside the sentence. Family members say he could be released from his original prison term as early as April of next year.
DRUG SUSPECT USES TAX REFUND FOR POT
HEALTH DEPARTMENT OFFERS FREE H1N1 VACCINATIONS
DETECTIVE SEEKS FRAUD SUSPECT CAPTURED ON CAMERA
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http://www.hernandosheriff.org/Tips/ You may be eligible for a reward up to $1,000.
17TH WEEKI WACHEE SWAMP FEST KICKS OFF SATURDAY
Along with a variety of food to sample, the entertainment program includes dancers, folk, country and instrumental music throughout the weekend. The “Swamp Monster” contest has been a crowd favorite with clever and creative costumes vying for cash prizes. Drawings for over 200 other prizes will occur throughout the event, as well. This year, Swamp Fest has added the “Lil’ Critter Corner” featuring fun games and prizes for kids, sponsored by the Hernando County Parks and Recreation Department.
There is a $2.00 donation at the gate; kids 12 and under free. There is free parking and free shuttle service from the remote lots on SR550 and Shoal line Blvd. in Hernando Beach.
SATURDAY NIGHT STORY-TELLING IN BROOKSVILLE
Hill House Bed & Breakfast will host an evening of story-telling from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6.
Local author Jerry Cowling will take a humorous look at history, including stories about Abraham Lincoln, Davy Crockett, what really happened at the Brooksville Raid, and the histories of dogs, fear and the movies. The evening of entertainment and refreshments is free. Hill House B&B is owned and operated by Pierre Desjardins. The address is 406 E. Liberty St., Brooksville. For more information please call (352)345-4466.
MORE WEEKEND EVENTS FROM NATURALLYHERNANDO.ORG
READING FESTIVAL
| 10:00am-1:00pmLocation: NATURE COAST TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL, 4057 California Street,Brooksville. Meet Dr. Michael Sampson, New York Times Best SellingAuthor of 30 books for children. amd other local childrens' authors.Activities include face painting, announcement of the winner of theHernando Today's Mother's Day Poem Contest; games, door prizes, Tony"the Balloon Guy", local meterologist Brian McClure. Food available forpurchase. Free admission and activities. |
Saturday, March 06, 2010
BARK ISLAND at Pine Island
| 8:00- 10:00am Pine Island Beach Bring your 'furry pal' for a great morningof romping in the sand and splashing in the water! Please remember tobring proof of current vaccinations, a least "just in case" they getrowdy... and clean up after your pet! Admission" $5.00 352-754-4031 orrecreation@hernandocounty.uswww.hernandocounty.us/parks_rec |
www.hernandocounty.us/parks_rec
Saturday, March 06, 2010
BLACK BEAR - Educator's Workshop
| 9:00am-3:30pm CHINSEGUT NATURE CENTER, 23212 Lake Lindsey Rd., Brooksville. For all educators; In-service credit available.Pre-registration requested. |
www.MyFWC.com/Chinsegut
Saturday, March 06, 2010
DAY OF ART DISCOVERY
| 10:00am- 2:00 pm HERNANDO "POP", 417 West Jefferson Street, Brooksville (theyellow house with the purple trim!) If you've ever wanted to exploreyour creative side or try a different art medium without buying all thesupplies, this is your day! Five local artists will offer theirsupplies and expertise to you. Get creative and try something new!Cost: $25.00, includes lunch. PLEASE PRE-REGISTER. |
Saturday, March 06, 2010
FARMER'S MARKET
| 8:00am-2:00pm THROUGHOUT DOWNTOWN BROOKSVILLE. The weekly Farmer'sMarket and more! Fresh veggies and fruit, plants, herbs, soaps, jams,candy, goodies. Local eateries open for your refreshments. |
www.brooksvillebusiness.com
Saturday, March 06, 2010
YARD SALE AT THE SPRINGS
| 8:00am- 2:00pm Location: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, 6131 Commercial Way(US 19 / SR 50), Weeki Wachee. Find your special treasure at this greatevent! |
www.weekiwachee.com
Sunday, March 07, 2010
BRIDAL EXPO
| 11:00am-3:00pmSILVERTHORN COUNTRY CLUB, 4550 Golf Club Lane, Brooksville. Tour theelegant banquet facilities, meet local vendors including photographers,florists, decorators, bridal gown retailers and more! Door prizes anddrawing for Grand Prize Classic Wedding Package. Cost: $10.00 perperson for first 2 guests; $15.00 for each additional guest. |
www.silverthornclub.net
HNS REPORTS---MARCH 4, 2010
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BOMBSHELL AT PRE-TRIAL DELAYS GIGLIOTTI CHILD ABUSE CASE
The victim, who was identified for the first time in his court appearance as 17-year old Adam Gigliotti, said he agreed with a plea deal for Angelo, who pleaded to one count of aggravated child abuse and five years of probation in return for testimony against TaiLing Gigliotti.
JUDGE WON'T WORK WITH COUNTY ON PLAN FOR WEEKEND INMATES
Circuit Judge Jack Springstead said Thursday that he was not inclined to hand out any 30-day county jail sentences if there was a possibility that those sentences would not be served in jail. Most 30-day sentences come with the option of serving time on weekends only, and Hernando County officials are looking at a program that would put weekend offenders to work in the community to save up to $55,000 a year in jail costs. Springstead apparently doesn't like that idea. In comments about a plea bargain for a 30-day sentence, Springstead said he was not prepared to "have the county modify sentences" handed down by the courts and would not commit to a 30-day sentence if it meant potentially no actual jail time. The statements by the county's busiest criminal court judge could torpedo the county's cost-saving plan.
PORT AUTHORITY HEARS NEW DREDGE PLANS BUT NO DATE TO RESUME
Goebel said the dredging cannot resume until regulators respond, though she said they have promised to expedite their answer. Because of a lack of tests of the anti-coagulant material, some of the spoil may have to be disposed of in a landfill, either the county's landfill or a construction and demolition debris facility. She also said the new plans still contemplate a project within budget.
The Port Authority voted to approve a resolution to the County Board urging the board to ask legislators to extend a funding deadline of June 30. Goebel said legislative contacts so far have her and other county officials optimistic that the date can be moved and state funding saved.