Resident Proposes Law Barring Texting While Driving in Belleair BeachBy Leo CoughlinBELLEAIR BEACH - The horrifying notion of texting while driving a vehicle came home to this city at Monday night's City Council meeting. Initiatives to stop the practice are taking place all over the country, but Joe Burke, a resident, wants the city to become directly involved and proposed a city ordinance forbidding the practice. Burke's suggestion was taken under advisement by the council. The council, with three members absent, heard J.C. Imfelt urge the installation of a canopy over the slips area at the city marina to protect boats from the weather. Mitch Krach, David Dumville and Stan Sofer suggested that the idea be the subject of a workshop. Not present Monday night were Mayor Lynn Rives, Kathy Mortensen and Rob Baldwin. The council agreed basically that the TV Advisory Committee be disbanded because it has fulfilled its purpose. The group was set up to facilitate recording the meetings by video and broadcasting them on the city's web site. Amendment 4 that will be on the ballot in the fall and that would require a referendum on all changes to municipal and county comprehensive plans was opposed by the council. It is generally agreed that adoption of that law would cripple governments throughout the state. Felicia Leonard was appointed to the Park and Recreation Board. The idea of expanding the board from five members to seven is under consideration. Ken Lucci was honored for his service on the Board of Adjustment with an Award of Appreciation. Belleair Beach voters go to the polls Tuesday with Krach and Dumville running for re-election and J. Clarke McNeace and Leslie Ford Notaro also on the ballot. The four are running for the three seats available. Dick Crowl's seat is open and Monday night's meeting was his last.
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