Wilford explains budget vote

This response is in regard to Mr. Helle's letter questioning my decision to vote against approving the "first reading" of the city's FY 10/11 annual budget at the Sept. 13 city commission meeting. First off, my "no" vote was cast not because my fellow city commissioners did  not agree with my motion to support an initiative sponsored by Rebuilding Together North Central Florida  (RTNCF) to bring teenage youth from Ala., Ga., and Fla., to Alachua next summer as part of a volunteer outreach and housing rehabilitation initiative.

 This volunteer initiative in no way would have hindered our local residents from employment opportunities. This heartfelt initiative, in fact, would have increased spending in the city and brought additional revenue to "The Good Life Community." It would also show that we in Alachua embrace bringing youth to our community as a viable example of volunteerism at its best.

 Had my motion been seconded for discussion purposes, I was going to recommend certain non-critical line items be reduced in the budget to fund this worthwhile project. Admittedly, I did not do a very good job in presenting my ideas regarding RTNCF's proposal for which I apologized to my fellow commissioners, city staff, and the residents of Alachua, at the Sept. 27 city commission meeting.

 The primary reasons I voted against passing the FY 10/11 city budget on first reading were: (1) a "phased in" approach was not effectuated in raising water and wastewater rates for Alachua's citizens, which I believed was unfair, and (2) a new two-year contract was awarded our current city attorney without a formal bidding process, Request for Qualifications (RFQ's), and/or Request for Proposals (RFP'S), being undertaken.

 Ms. Rush is an outstanding attorney and represents the city quite well. I truly do consider her a tremendous asset for the City of Alachua. However, I am a strong proponent of employing a formal competitive bidding process and simply voted my conscience in this budget matter. I was prepared to make a motion to extend Ms. Rush's contract through Dec. 31, 2010, until such time the city commission could study this matter in more detail.

 My colleagues on the city commission disagreed with me on the RTNCF initiative, "phasing in" increases in water and wastewater rates, and seeking bids for legal services. I accept their decision. This is democracy at its finest – majority rule with minority views accepted without condemnation.

 In the spirit of cooperation and consensus, and after I carefully analyzed the recommended FY 10/11 budget for an additional two weeks, I did vote yes for final passage of this budget at the Sept. 27 city commission meeting. I also thanked staff for their hard work in presenting an austere budget.

 I sincerely thank Mr. Helle for his comments. Alachua residents should hold elected officials accountable and transparent for their actions as we seek to be faithful stewards of the tax dollars placed in our trust in conducting city business.

 Robert W. Wilford

Alachua City Commissioner