Bluffs Seats New Commissioners, Old Dispute is SettledBy Leo Coughlin BELLEAIR BLUFFS - Monday night's City Commission meeting saw the seating of a new person on the commission and the cleaning up of some old business. Taylour Shimkus, a winner in last week's election, was sworn into office as she celebrated her initial entry into politics and Joe Barkley was also sworn in to take a seat for a full term. Barkley was elected last year to fill out the term of Dave Shimkus who mounted an unsuccessful challenge to Chris Arbutine for mayor. The commission approved a settlement of a long-standing dispute with Charles Barlet, a member of the fire department. Arbitration was scheduled in the dispute, but just as the parties were to begin the case, a last minute settlement was reached. The dispute involved a suspension and back pay. Commissioner Jack Nazario was elected vice mayor. Usually, a vote is not even held for the post. A nomination is made and the issue is quickly wrapped up. Monday night, however, newcomer Shimkus nominated Susie Sofer as vice mayor, and Barkley nominated Nazario. Mayor Chris Arbutine said he is scheduled to be in Tallahassee on April 16th for an Ethics Commission proceeding on allegations made against the mayor by Dave Shimkus.
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