Relay at Sand KeyBy Vicki JacksonKeeping track at the Board Meeting of the Sand Key Civic Association (SKCA) last week might have been easier with a scorecard. Following his call to order, President Jerry Koenig announced his resignation as director and member. (It seems he's selling his condo and leaving town.) Vice President Gene Gillespie was unanimously elected to fill the void, whereupon, he immediately nominated Don Van Weezel to fill the VP office. Of course, with Mr. Van Weezel's election, an empty seat on the board was created. That seat was promptly filled by Kevin Teismann, who had previously run for the board. That would have been the last lap, if board member Bob Tarsin hadn't then tendered his resignation. (It seems he will be kept busy with his work.) Finally, active member and previous board candidate, Dory Platz, was elected to complete the Board. The new team addressed the rest of the evening's agenda, including a report from Vice President Weezel on the new signs and flags installed at the pedestrian crosswalks on Gulf Boulevard. Credit was given to Councilman George Cretekos for his impetus in moving that request through the Clearwater City Council in record time. Just prior to convening the Board Meeting, the Association had hosted a Florida Hometown Democracy Amendment 4 Debate. When a proposed Resolution regarding that Amendment was introduced, a lengthy and spirited discussion ensued. While no one on the board adamantly disagreed with the position favored in the Resolution, some said they would like more information and were not prepared to vote on it yet. Several members objected to the "inflammatory language" it contained, and cautioned it would hinder further relations with the City. Still others were ready to adopt it immediately, and felt "it was a step in the right direction, to help preserve our island and quality of life." In the end, a committee was appointed to draft a resolution prior to the next meeting. SKCA will be ahead of the curve with their proclamation, for Amendment 4 won't be voted on until the coming November election. As Sand Key, Island Estates, and Clearwater Beach have a history of significant voter turnout, one would expect to hear the voices of other civic associations, but that's another race.
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