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10-15-18 Special Called Meeting MinutesMINUTES Special Called Meeting of the City Commission Meeting Monday, October 15, 2018 e 6:00 PM Commission Chamber INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIENCE CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Glasser called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. City Clerk Bartle called the roll. ROLL CALL: Present: Ellen Glasser, Mayor - Seat 1 Blythe Waters,Mayor Pro Tem / Commissioner — Seat 3 Candice Kelly, Commissioner - Seat 4 Brittany Norris, Commissioner — Seat 5 Also Present: Joe Gerrity, City Manager (CM) Brenna Durden, City Attorney (CA) Kevin Hogancamp, Deputy City Manager (DCM) Phyllis Nadeau, Associate City Clerk (ACC) Lori Diaz, Records Clerk (RC) 1. PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING CANDIDATES Mayor Glasser reviewed the process for this meeting as detailed on the agenda. Ms. Glasser stated in the Public Comments each speaker is limited to three minutes. The speakers were called as follows: Betsy Sohifanella - spoke in favor of Mary Ellen Waugh Kevin Bodge - spoke in favor of Cindy Anderson Melinda Goins - spoke in favor of Cindy Anderson Wendy Harvey - spoke in favor of Cindy Anderson David Harvey - spoke in favor of Cindy Anderson Alexia Adcock -Stanford - spoke in favor of Marlina Vincent Lisa Herrold - spoke in favor of Cindy Anderson Ellen Golombek - spoke in favor of Bruce Bole Kathie McGuinness - spoke in favor of Mary Ellen Waugh Emma Cottrell - spoke in favor of Cindy Anderson Mayor Glasser introduced, for the record, the emails that were sent to the City on behalf of the candidates as follows: Special Called Meeting of the City Commission October 15, 2018 Page 1 of 7 Cindy Anderson - 7 received • From Pamela Mitchell-Almand, Beth Cottrell, Celeste Wadkins, Wendy Harvey, David Harvey, E. K. Cottrell, Lisa Herrold Martina Vincent - 5 received • from Margaret Yarbrough, Tracy Synan, Justin Blakeman, Lindy Mullen, Amy Scott Mary Ellen Waugh - 3 received • from Alan Gasparovic, Todd Niemczyk, Kenneth Fink 2. DETERMINE ORDER OF CANDIDATE PRESENTATIONS BY DRAWING NUMBERS Mayor Glasser explained the process to determine the order of presentations and requested the candidates come in alphabetical order, pull a number, then sit the corresponding chair. ORDER OF PRESENTATION 1.Cindy Anderson 2. Marlina Vincent 3. Bruce Bole 4. Mary Ellen Waugh Mayor Glasser addressed the candidates and spoke about the following: • Commitment to meeting schedules, approximately 50 per year • Newly elected Commissioner will be administered the Oath of Office at the October 22nd Commission meeting by their choice of the City Clerk, a Notary, or a Judge. • Newly elected Commissioner will serve the remainder of the unexpired term, ending November 2020. • Newly elected Commissioner is expected to attend orientation sessions, Ethics, and Sunshine Law training. • Commissioners may not have a financial interest, direct or indirect, in conducting any business/contracts/sales with the City of Atlantic Beach. 3. PRESENTATIONS FROM CANDIDATES Mayor Glasser stated each candidate will be allowed five minutes for their presentation. Cindy L. Anderson Thanked the Commission and introduced herself. Ms. Anderson provided her personal and family history, her education, her professional experience and history, her community experience, and spoke about the Commission's goals for 2018. Martina V. Vincent Thanked the Commission and introduced herself. Ms. Vincent provided her personal and family history, her education, her professional experience and history, and spoke about her community service. Special Called Meeting of the City Commission October 15, 2018 Page 2 of 7 Bruce Bole Thanked the Commission and introduced himself. Mr. Bole provided his personal and family history, his education and 30 years' service in the US Navy, his professional experience and history, and spoke of his desire to serve this community. Mary Ellen Waugh Thanked the Commission and introduced herself. Ms. Waugh provided her personal and family history, her education, her professional experience and history, and her desire to be an advocate for the people in this community. Mayor Glasser stated this concludes the presentations and now there will be questions from the Commissioners to the candidates. Each candidate will have one minute for their response. Commissioner Kelly - How would you describe your district? • Marlina Vincent - a very diverse district, with high value homes to lower income families. • Bruce Bole - agree it is diverse, wants to understand Donner Park, and understand what is going on East and West of Mayport Road. • Mary Ellen Waugh - all agree it is diverse, the need to wear all sorts of hats for parking, safe routes/sidewalks to school, transportation services, food, know what is going on East and West of Mayport Road as well what is in the middle. • Cindy Anderson - agrees it is diverse, shared concerns for safe sidewalks and bike paths, accommodating long-time residents and new residents. Commissioner Norris - What do you see as the primary duty of a City Commissioner? • Bruce Bole - to listen, represent the constituents, know what the City can and cannot provide, to help, encourage, and engage. • Mary Ellen Waugh - look at the needs of the entire community, find the best way to exercise the authority granted to the Commission. • Cindy Anderson - first to listen and second to lead, making decisions that are in the best interests of everyone in the community. • Marlina Vincent - listen, represent, make decisions that are for the well being of the entire community. Commissioner Waters - How would you handle a divisive issue? • Mary Ellen Waugh - on the pervious/impervious surface ratio issues and the storinwater drainage issues one has to look at all factors, depend on your available resources, obtain professional advice to solve problems. • Cindy Anderson - listen for the possibility of alternate solutions - not just from professionals but from the community as well. Special Called Meeting of the City Commission October 15, 2018 Page 3 of 7 Martina Vincent - listen to all the feedback from the community, other Commissioners, the City staff, then make a decision based on facts, not emotions, for what is best for the whole community. • Bruce Bole - for issues like stormwater drainage costs - if the City was going to spend $10,000,000 the facts must be presented to show how it effects everyone. Show the big picture so that everybody can understand the little picture. Mayor Glasser - When you faced a challenge while working with a team, how did you overcome that challenge? • Cindy Anderson - as Chair at Jax Beach Elemetary, the Duval County School Board (DCSB) wanted to relocate the magnate school elsewhere and double the size. All the parents and the surrounding community were against this and the School Advisory Council (SAC) contacted the DCSB to find other alternatives. Parents, the local community, and the media got involved and that decision was changed - the school remained where it was and is today. • Martina Vincent - there was strained communications in the PTA and by getting involved she was able to improve and strengthen the communications with the parents and teachers. • Bruce Bole - as Squadron Commander on an aircraft carrier the daily focus is on operations and safety. When safety is at risk, operations stop and that must be communicated to the higher Command. Building a team of consensus for the safety risk is the right thing to do, even it could effect career progression, it is an important thing to do. • Mary Ellen Waugh - for many years BEAM volunteers operated by handing one food box out the door. Then the Beaches Community Food Bank was founded with grocery recoveries providing more food than we ever had. Changing the volunteers' mindset of only giving away 'one each' became the challenge. Ms. Waugh organized a field trip to the food bank to show the volunteers there was more than enough food to give people what they needed. Commissioner Norris - In your experience what is the key to developing a good team? • Martina Vincent - Communication, respect, and listening. • Bruce Bole - Communication, understanding goals. • Mary Ellen Waugh - Having a common goal, clear communication, choosing people properly. • Cindy Anderson - Having common goals, communication, respect. Commissioner Kelly - What is your priority with legislation? • Bruce Bole - No priorities now - he will start by listening, understanding, and watching. He needs a better understanding of the finances, fiscal responsibilities, and the priorities. Special Called Meeting of the City Commission October 15, 2018 Page 4 of 7 • Mary Ellen Waugh - There will be a learning curve during the first week and she will be able to answer this question then. Ms. Waugh extended her congratulations on the parks partnership. • Cindy Anderson - Her priorities now are the Commission's goals for 2018. In the future she would like to advocate for the City's tree canopy. • Marlina Vincent - Preserving the quality of life in Atlantic Beach, now and for the future. Commissioner Waters - What do you think is the number one issue facing Atlantic Beach that can make the biggest difference and how do you see yourself helping to make that difference based on that issue? • Mary Ellen Waugh - A grocery store in the food desert of Mayport. • Cindy Anderson - Getting powerlines out of treetops, less interference during storms. • Marlina Vincent - Incorporating Mayport side of Atlantic Beach to diminish the 'them' versus 'us' thinking. • Bruce Bole - Improve parking. Mayor Glasser - What motivated you at this time to get involved in City government? • Cindy Anderson - She previously served on the Atlantic Beach Pension Board. For the past three years she was her husband's caregiver after he was diagnosed with cancer. Ms. Waugh also helped run her husband's business as well as running her own business. Now she has the time to devote. • Marlina Vincent - Has been involved in community service and considered the Commission but never acted on it until now. Now is the right time. • Bruce Bole - This is a unique opportunity to use his skills to make an impact and give back to the community. • Mary Ellen Waugh - Having been involved in some past campaigns she thought about the Commission but now is the time to act on it. Her family is here, her grandchildren are here, and she has always loved Atlantic Beach. She wants to make it great for them, preserve the character, and continue to give back to the community. Commissioner Kelly - What are your decision making styles? • Marlina Vincent - Hard-core planner - write everything down, study it, look at facts, listen to feedback, and communication. • Bruce Bole - Do background planning, execute, have contingencies because of changes. • Mary Ellen Waugh - Look and listen, find solutions, then settle the issue. • Cindy Anderson - Research, ask questions, understand, solicit others opinions, communicate. Mayor Glasser concluded the Presentations. Special Called Meeting of the City Commission October 15, 2018 Page 5 of 7 4. RECESS - 15 MINUTES The meeting reconvened at 7:46 PM. 5. DISCUSSION Commissioner Kelly - Summarized what she was looking for - want someone that is collegiate and fits our current style. We feel that what we have accomplished in the past year has created a more neighborly climate in Atlantic Beach and we want someone to join us in that goal. Commissioner Waters - Civil discourse can be rancorous at the best of times and this Commission has worked hard to find a common vision. We want someone that brings a clear voice and vision to the Commission. Commissioner Norris - Looking for balance on the Commission, someone who wants to be a servant of the people. Mayor Glasser - spoke about the various skills of each of the candidates, noting they are all exceptionally well qualified. Ms. Glasser spoke about the various backgrounds of the current Commissioners and those of the candidates. This Commission has to select someone who will hit the ground running and learn and understand the needs of their district. 6. ELECTION FOR COMMISSIONER - SEAT 2 Mayor Glasser explained the process for this election. City Attorney Durden reminded the Commission that a 2 to 2 vote fails, and that the decision has to be made with a minimum of 3 votes. Mayor Glasser called for a Motion. MOTION: To nominate/elect Cindy Anderson to fill Commissioner Seat 2 Motion: Candace Kelly Second. Blythe Waters Commissioner Kelly - Evaluated each of the candidates as to how they will fit with this Commission and stated they are all awesome! Ms. Kelly stated she felt Ms. Anderson can hit the deck running and is an expert at mediation and collaboration. She liked how Ms. Anderson spoke about having a clean code with diligent enforcement as a way of keeping up the neighborhood character. Commissioner Norris - No comment. Special Called Meeting of the City Commission October 15, 2018 Page 6 of 7 Commissioner Waters - Stated all the candidates are qualified. The Commission is elected to represent our constituents. Ms. Waters spoke about the outpouring from residents in support of Cindy Anderson. Mayor Glasser - Spoke about her own prior service on City Boards before she decided to run for Commissioner. Whoever is selected it will be based on their qualifications and added value. Mayor Glasser called for the vote. Blythe Waters (Seconded By) Against Candace Kelly (Moved By) For Brittany Norris For Ellen Glasser For Motion passed 3 to 1. City Attorney Durden extended her congratulations to all the candidates. To Ms. Anderson, she stated the Sunshine Law is applicable as of now. She explained Ms. Anderson cannot speak to any of the Commissioners or the Mayor about anything that may come before the Commission - no talking about business. Public Records Laws and Ethics Laws are in effect as of now. Ms. Durden stated to Ms. Anderson that she is available for any questions. 7. ADJOURNMENT There being no further discussion, Mayor Glasser declared the meeting adjourned at 8:16 PM. Attest: Donna L. Bartle, City Clerk Date Approved: 11 -13 -IF 3 � /-Z - - Wen Glasser, Mayor Special Called Meeting of the City Commission October 15, 2018 Page 7 of 7 Vacant Commissioner spot Thu 10/11/2018 2:24 PM To:ccdasd98@comcast.net <ccdasd98@comcast.net>; chelsea@beachesleader.com <chelsea@beachesleader.com>; purduejim@gmail.com <purduejim@gmail.com>; photo2u2@att.net <photo2u2@att.net>; Mitch@ MitchReeves.com <Mitch@ MitchReeves.com >; mereeves1663@comcast.net <mereeves1663@comcast.net>; nvn202@juno.com <nvn202@juno.com>; dreichard@llw-law.com <dreichard@Ilw-law.com>; teresa.stepzinski@jacksonville.com <teresa.stepzinski@jacksonville.com>; tom.patton@mindspring.com <tom.patton@mindspring.com>; Drake, Patricia <pdrake@coab.us>; Waters, Blythe <bwaters@coab.us>; Durden, Brenna <bdurden@coab.us>; Norris, Brittany <bnorris@coab.us>; Kelly, Candace <ckelly@coab.us>; Berry, Cathy <cberry@coab.us>; Arlington, Daniel <darlington@coab.us>; Reeves, Derek <dreeves@coab.us>; Bartle, Donna <dbartle@coab.us>; Glasser, Ellen <eglasser@coab.us>; Gerrity, Joseph <jgerrity@coab.us>; Stinson, John <jstinson@coab.us>; Moore, Kayle <kmoore@coab.us>; Randich, Keith <krandich@coab.us>; Hogencamp,Kevin <kHogencamp@coab.us>; Cook, Michelle <mcook@coab.us>; Nadeau, Phyllis <pnadeau@coab.us>; Caffey, Russell <rcaffey@coab.us>; Williams, Scott <swilliams@coab.us>; Corbin, Shane <scorbin@coab.us>; Johnson, Timmy <tjohnson@coab.us>; Gualillo, Victor <vgualillo@coab.us>; Calverley, Yvonne <ycalverley@coab.us>; To the Atlantic Beach City Council members and Mayor Glasser: I've been traveling and out of town hence my rather late leiter. I'd like to offer a recommendation for Cindy Anderson to fill the vacant Commissioner position in Atlantic Beach. I have known Cindy for 20 years and worked with her many times in church activities, community projects, and many volunteer positions. She is a true leader, and devotes far more time to each project than a working attorney would be expected to! She directed and produced many drama presentations for Community Presbyterian Church and spent many, many hours in turning amateur talent with a very limited budget into the best we could possibly be. She is an organized and intelligent woman with a very impressive work history and based on those skills alone she would make an excellent commissioner. But far more valuable to our community is her heart! She loves Atlantic Beach and has watched it evolve over the years, helping it thrive through volunteer work and compassion for ALL its citizens. She is a peacemaker whose goal is cooperation with all sides and getting things accomplished. Anything she does, any project she takes on, she does passionately and fully, devoting her time and her intelligence not just to do the job, but to do it far better than anyone expects. She is a Christian woman, not only in her faith and membership at Community Presbyterian Church, but in all her deeds. Her goodness and faith shows through her life, her actions, her family... and through the things she can do for Atlantic Beach. Thank you for your consideration. I have a conflict Monday evening or I would personally be at the meeting to support Cindy Anderson. Warm regards, Pamela Mitchell-Almand Tue 9/25/2018 6:37 PM To:Elected Officials <electedofficials@coab.us>; CcCindy Anderson <shallowthinker@live.com>; E.K. Cottrell <ecottrell@me.com>; Dear Mayor and Commissioners, I would like to go on record supporting Cindy Anderson for the city council position which is being vacated by John Stinson. I believe she is very well qualified to fill this position. She is a practicing attorney, and a long-term resident of Atlantic Beach. She loves this community and works towards making it better by volunteering for organizations such as Mission House, Habitat for Humanity and her church, among many others. In all she does, she exemplifies honesty, fairness and thoughtfulness - all of which would make her an excellent addition to our city council. I hope you will consider her for this position. Thank you! Beth Cottrell 1656 Park Terrace East Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 Sat 9/29/2018 1:57 PM To:Glasser, Ellen <eglasser@coab.us>; Waters, Blythe <bwaters@coab.us>; Kelly, Candace <ckelly@coab.us>; Norris, Brittany <bnorris@coab.us>; I would like you to consider Cindy Anderson to fill the Commission seat vacated by John Stinson. Her legal background as an employment lawyer and having advised cities on labor issues will bring a positive contribution to the Commission. She has been a lawyer for over 20 years and will bring a wealth of knowledge as she advocates for our city. Cindy has been a resident of Atlantic Beach for 31 years and has 3 children who attended local public schools. She was a very active member of the School Advisory Council (SAC) when her children attended Atlantic Beach Elementary. She was involved in her children's school activities at Mayport Middle as well as Fletcher High School. She is a member of Community Presbyterian Church and shows her dedication to her beliefs. She inspires children and adults, and shows by example, how to be a caring Christian. I grew up in Neptune Beach but have lived at 201 First Street, Atlantic Beach since my children went to ABE (they are grown and gone). I want people governing our city with honesty, integrity and enthusiasm. Please appoint Cindy Anderson to fill the vacated Commission seat!! Celeste Wadkins 201 First Street Atlantic Beach, FL Sent from my iPad Consideration of Cindy Anderson for City Commissioner- -Seat 'A Wendy Harvey <harveywd@hotmail.com> Thu 10/4/2018 9:54 AM To:Glasser, Ellen <eglasser@coab.us>; Waters, Blythe <bwaters@coab.us>; Kelly, Candace <ckelly@coab.us>; Norris, Brittany <bnorris@coab.us>; Stinson, John <jstinson@coab.us>; Dear Mayor and Commissioners, I am writing to strongly recommend that you consider appointing Cindy Anderson as Atlantic Beach's replacement for City Commissioner Seat 2. Ms. Anderson has a wealth of experience to apply to the diverse demands attached to this job. As an attorney, she comprehends what actions are possible according to the law; as a skilled mediator, I can just picture her being the voice of reason during council/public meetings that become tense; and as a dedicated, long-time community volunteer, she has an understanding of how our city operates. Plus, she is a resident who has regularly attended City Council meetings, because she believes in the well-being of our city through active participation. Aside from her professional attributes, Ms. Anderson is an energetic go-getter and a true team member. Her intelligence, strong sense of responsibility, and skills in problem solving should make her a perfect fit for this position. And best of all, she doesn't have her own agenda—only good governance—which makes her ideal for an appointment. Please consider Ms. Anderson for this important position. And let me take this opportunity to offer a big thanks to all of you for your service to our city. Sincerely, Wendy Harvey 1667 Park Terrace East Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 Consideration of Cindy Anderson for City Com missioner- -Seat I Fri 10/5/2018 12:29 PM o:Glasser, Ellen <eglasser@coab.us>; Waters, Blythe <bwaters@coab.us>; Kelly, Candace <ckelly@coab.us>; Norris, Brittany <bnorris@coab.us>; Stinson, John <jstinson@coab.us>; Dear Mayor and Commissioners, As a citizen of Atlantic Beach, I am exceedingly pleased to recommend Ms. Cindy Anderson to you for an appointed position as City Commissioner. She uniquely combines the professional and personal qualities which will make her a significant asset to our community in this role, I have known Ms. Anderson in my community and church settings for over 30 years. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in Jacksonville since 1988. 1 have observed Ms. Anderson in a number of leadership, teaching and organizational roles within these settings over the years. Ms. Anderson consistently manifests a core value for integrity in all of her activities, such that she commands the respect of all those who have worked with her. Ms. Anderson does not bend the rules or compromise values, while at the same time, she leads this adherence to rules and expectations with grace and warmth. While Ms. Anderson has performed in a number of leadership roles, two that stand out include her work as Chair of the School Advisory Council at Fletcher Senior High School, which involved working with a number of stakeholders, including lobbying for funding for various projects from the Duval County School Board. She was effective in forging cooperative connections with power players within the community. If working with the diverse opinions and sensitivities of a high school committee was not challenging enough, Ms. Anderson founded and organized a drama group within our church community and serves as its artistic director. In this role, she demonstrates her highly refined and professional social and communication skills in her sensitive awareness of individual personalities and her skillful ability to inspire them to exceed their expectations for themselves. Also, please note she taught at the University of North Florida between 1989-1996. Besides being able to engage and inspire students, Ms. Anderson is excellent at taking abstract concepts and conveying them in practical, common vernacular- that facilitates an ease of understanding. The role of Commissioner requires knowledge of laws and rules while being able to mediate among various invested parties, especially the citizens of Atlantic Beach. As you know, Ms. Anderson is a professional mediator, requiring such high level skills at communication, problem solving and collaborative engagement. Given her additional background as an attorney, combined with the fact that her commitment is to good governance rather than any particular agenda, Ms. Anderson is perfect for this appointed position. The role of Commissioner also requires energy and willingness to put in the time and work hard. Given her abundance of energy and desire to give back to her community, Ms. Anderson has, over the years, thrown herself into diverse professional and civic roles at any given time. She always gives her utmost to any responsible role she takes on. Finally, Ms. Anderson is exceedingly intelligent. Her processing of complex sets of information is efficient and fast. She is able to clearly ascertain present facts and quickly translate to more expansive and inclusive summaries. In this way, Ms. Anderson has vision, which she can bring to our city as an invaluable asset. Sincerely, David M. Harvey -*A'ecommendation of Cindy Anderson for Vacant Commission Seat Fri 10/5/2018 12:34 PM To:Elected Officials <electedofficials@coab.us>; Dear Mayor Glasser and Commissioners Waters, Norris, and Kelly I am writing to highly recommend Cindy Anderson to serve as a commissioner for the City of Atlantic Beach. Cindy has lived in our district for more than twenty years, raising three children in our community. During that time, she has served in important leadership roles in the local schools, Community Presbyterian Church, and other civic organizations. I have volunteered with Cindy on a number of occasions at Habitat, Mission House, and other important civic services in our beaches community. In the old adage of the 20%-80% rule, Cindy is not only part of the 20% that improves our community, she is the cream of the crop that takes on leadership responsibility while never seeking praise or attention for her efforts. Cindy's professional background also would make her a great asset to the Commission. Cindy is a practicing attorney with experience in maneuvering through the legal mine fields that the Commission must often face. Moreover, she now primarily focuses her practice on serving as a neutral arbitrator or hearing officer, providing her with a unique ability to sift through complex issues with an unbiased perspective. In short, Cindy's background as exemplary citizen and experienced professional, together- with her bright mind and even temperament, will make her a great asset to the Commission and our city. Thank you for considering my recommendation. E.K. Cottrell 1656 Park Terrace East, Atlantic Beach Sent from my iPad arty Anderson f• • • • Mon 10/8/2018 '12:22 PM To:Glasser, Ellen <eglasser@coab.us>; Dear Mayor, I fully support Cindy Anderson for service on our City Commission. I've know Cindy for several years and have served on numerous committees with her. She brings a vast array on knowledge, especially in the field of employment law, she is a avid supporter of the arts, and is a long time valued member of our community. She has a sharp mind and is able to bring opposing sides to the table. She will work hard for the good of all, and as a long time citizen fully understands the unique challenges that we face as a city. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Lisa Herrold Thu 10/11/2018 1:38 PM Tollected Officials <electedofficials@coab.us>; Dear Mayor Glasser and Commissioners, I've recently learned of Marlina Vincent's desire to sit as Seat 2 Commissioner for the City of Atlantic Beach. I work in volunteer positions with Marlina at Atlantic Beach Elementary School, where our children attend and are friends. I'm very supportive of Marlina in her pursuit of Seat 2. I've watched Marlina run Basket Blast, the largest annual school fundraiser, for several years running. This is a mammoth sized event which requires much of Marlina's time. She starts planning and soliciting donations early in the summer and the event wraps up in November. Basket Blast is a voluntary labor of love for her, with the end result being additional resources for the kids at ABE. Marlina has greatly improved the fundraiser since taking it over and does an excellent job every year making it fun for kids and their families. Marlina has also served as PTA President for 2 years at the school. Listening to concerns from parents and teachers must have been challenging at times, but she always lead in a professional way. In my experiences with her, she has shown level headed thinking and reasoning skills. She pays close attention to details in her work, listens well and is respectful of differing view points (of which there have been many at ABE). She has the ability to assess information and come up with a reasonable and fair solution. Being around Marlina and seeing her work ethic makes it easy to support her. I hope the City will see these character traits in her as well. I have no doubt that she would make a fine Commissioner for the residents of Atlantic Beach. Sincerely, Margaret Yarbrough 403 Mako Dr. Atlantic Beach 904-405-4248 • i• Tracy Synan <tsynan@icloud.com> Thu 10/11/2018 10:07 PM To:Bartle, Donna <dbar-tle@coab.us>; Elected Officials <electedofficials@coab.us>; Dear Mayor and Commissioners, I cannot attend Monday night's meeting (school parent night conflict), but I wanted to weigh in on the difficult decision you have among excellent candidates who have some very big shoes to fill. You are likely familiar with Marlina Vincent because she is already active in community government. You have seen her in meetings and heard from her on various topics. And you can see from her resume that she is accomplished, an expert communicator (publisher, book translator, international sales, etc.) and basically brilliant. So I want to address what might not be readily apparent but what I have learned from my personal experience with her. We served together on the Parent Teacher Association as well as the School Advisory Council at Atlantic Beach Elementary. Of course she was immediately pushed into leadership roles, as extremely dependable, well -organized, and hard-working. But what stands out about Marlina is that she listens carefully and takes every person seriously. I have seen this in Safe Routes discussions, zoning requests for the nearby motel, school food issues, fundraisers, and recent local Atlantic Beach issues of which you are all too familiar. She thinks with a broad and historical and common-sense perspective. Then she often comes up with solutions that satisfy many needs (sometimes even the "crazy" people). When I said brilliant, I am not exaggerating; her mind is on a different level. She has a way of taking emotion out while preserving passion and re -focussing people on shared goals. Above all, she is fair. That kind of open and rational thought seems it would make her a great fit for this Commission and to serve the Atlantic Beach community. In that vein, more personally, she indeed has a heart to serve. She is a kind, generous, and giving person. Her character and integrity are unrivaled. She has traveled the world, hosts family from at least two continents --and moreover from wealthy venues to war-torn countries, giving her a unique outlook and perspective. She knows the importance of friends and family, and it is apparent when you spend time with her. She runs farmer's markets and facilitates food availability for the underserved community, donates thousands (literally, I have had to count them) of hours to the school, runs her writing and publishing business, and never ever stops taking care of her mother-in-law, mother, husband, and two young boys who she puts first always. She and her family choose to live in Atlantic Beach, to raise their children in the house her husband grew up in, with a vested interest in fostering this town to anchor this third generation of Atlantic Beach Vincents. She is the person who will think of everything, make sure you are ready, and if you aren't, that's ok because she has an extra and you can have it/use it, and she will accept it back with a smile and an invitation to join her for a drink, a swim, a conversation.... I can never figure out how she does it all and still makes each person feel special, but she really does make the world a better place for others. As you choose whore should represent your constituents, and who you will serve with in the future, please know, working with Marlina Vincent becomes a lesson in community values, shared work, and intelligent representation_ Best wishes! Tracy Synan, Esq. 2055 Beach Ave. Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 (904) 233-1346 Thu 10/11/2018 11:08 PM To:Elected Officials <electedofficials@coab.us>; I am writing to show my support for Marlina Vincent as an excellent choice to serve the city of Atlantic beach as commission seat 2. Marlina has been an exernplary president of Atlantic Beach Elementary PTA. She has a strong and abiding sense of social justice and deep rooted love for service to her community. She has strong roots in the community and is an organized person with a kind heart and can do attitude. I have known Marlina and her husband David Vincent as well as 3 generations of both of their families for over a decade. I can think of no better person to serve my district as commission seat. In partnership Justin Blakeman 1451 Linkside drive Atlantic Beach 32233 Sent from my Wad Sent from my Wad Support for City Commissioner Applicant Marlina Vincenj Fri 10/12/201£3 1:35 PM To:Elected Officials <electedofficials@coab.us>; Dear Commissioners for City of Atlantic Beach, I am writing in recommendation of a current applicant Marlina Vincent who has applied to fill the vacant county commission seat vacated by John Stinson. Marlina is a highly intelligent, level headed and extremely organized person. She is an advocate and avid volunteer for Atlantic Beach and it's residents, particularly for the students and families in the community whom she has supported through her 5+ years of involvement with Atlantic Beach Elementary PTA. Through the PTA she has chaired the school's primary PTA fundraiser for 5 consecutive years, elected on the board as the Vice President of Programs as well as PTA President for 2 years. In addition she serves on the Student Advisory Council as well as the wellness committee for the school. Not only does Marlina support education, she also has served on the DIG Local Network board, a local nonprofit connecting Beaches people to real food. These are strictly volunteer positions Marlina has dedicated herself to in addition to her professional commitments and personal commitments to her own family. Marlina has a big picture vision for anything that comes her way as well as an eye for detail that would ensure any subject that was placed before as a county commissioner would be reviewed and addressed accordingly. The City of Atlantic Beach would be lucky to have a committed and supportive resident who could assist the current commission, offering a fresh perspective to continue to make the right decisions for our community and continue to make Atlantic Beach a wonderful place to live and raise a family. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Lindy Mullen Resident of Atlantic Beach Parent at Atlantic Beach Elementary Business Partner Liaison Atlantic Beach Elementary PTA Vote yes to Marlina Vincent Sat 10/1312018 8:34 PM ro:Elected Officials < elected officials@coab.us>; To the commissioners, I want to voice my support in voting Marlina Vincent as city commissioner. I live in her district and have know her for many years. We have worked together on the board of the ABE PTA and many fundraisers at the school. Marlina has served as president of the PTA for 2 terms, as well as chairman of many events and fundraisers. She is detailed oriented, is great at listening to opinions and is one of the most fair and honest people I have known. She works well with others and respects different opinions. She would be a great fit in this position and has attended many council meetings as well as watching them live online. (We have done that together for the interest of the school the last few years.) I hope you will vote yes to Marlina Vincent as city commissioner. Thank you, Amy Scott 1201 Seminole Road Atlantic Beach Re: Commissioner appointment Sun 10/14/2018 1:11 PM To:skibumalan@aol.com <skibumalan@aol.com>; ccGlasser, Ellen <eglasser@coab.us>; Thanks for your email! Regards, Ellen Sent from XFINITY Connect App Original Message From: Alan Gasparovic To: glassere@comcast.net Sent: October 14, 2018 at 1:05 PM Subject: Commissioner appointment Good afternoon Ellen, A friend of mine, Mary Ellen Waugh, is asking to be appointed to the position of AB commissioner to replace John Stinson. I have know Mary Ellen for quite a few years through our mutual involvement with BEAM. I believe her to be a very dedicated, hard working, intelligent, well informed and honest individual. All the qualities I would hope to have embodied in any person representing my best interests in the political arena. In retrospect I suppose I could be talking about you. Kudos on the very fine job you are doing as the head of our city gov.. Hope everything is going well with your family and thanks for your hard work. Sincerely, Alan Gasparovic Mon 10/15/2018 '10:01 AM ToXelly, Candace <ckelly@coab.us>; Glasser, Ellen <eglasser@coab.us>; It is with great pleasure I recommend Mary Ellen Waugh to replace Jon Stinson for Seat 2. 1 have known Mary Ellen for over 25 years, and her work ethic and high moral standards are unmatched. I grew up in Atlantic Beach, and as an Atlantic Beach homeowner for 21 years, I have first-hand knowledge of her understanding and commitment to this community. She understands the complex issues of our small beach community, and she is able to rise above petty politics to accomplish goals to the benefit of all citizens. Her integral work in the BEAM garden, food pantry in Mayport, and Atlantic Beach Elementary garden are all examples of her success in managing projects and bringing people together for growth and improvement within Atlantic Beach. She has lived on Beach Avenue for over 30 years, and she has worked with the BEAM food pantry at Mayport for over six years. Her contact with citizens has spanned the district to make her a unique and important part of Atlantic Beach. Thank you, Todd Niemczyk 1793 Park Terrace East NOTICE: The information contained in this message is proprietary and/or confidential and may be privileged. If you are not the intended recipient of this communication, you are hereby notified to: (i) delete the message and all copies; (ii) do not disclose, distribute or use the message in any manner; and (iii) notify the sender immediately. Fwd: Recommendation of Mary Ellen Waugh for vacant seat on Atlantic Beach Commission / Beachbliss <beachbliss@aol.com> Sat 10/13/2018 8:58 AM -o:Glasser, Ellen <eglasser@coab.us>; -----Original Message----- �Pmjl_�� From: Beachbliss <beachbliss@aol.com> To: eglasser <gglasser@Coab.net> Sent: Sat, Oct 13, 2018 8:20 am Subject: Recommendation of Mary Ellen Waugh for vacant seat on Atlantic Beach Commission On Oct 13, 2018, at 4:21 AM, Beachbliss <beachbliss@aol.com> wrote: Maryellen, I gladly wrote the recommendation below but cant get it to go to Mayor Glasser by email, should I just drop it off, or is there another way t Dear Mayor Glasser: I highly recommend Mary Ellen Waugh for the vacant seat on the city Commission. I have lived in Atlantic beach since 1982 having grown up in Jacksonville through several generations ( here since 1890) and have moved from San Marco to the beach. I actually spend my first 4 years in Neptune beach before my family moved into Jacksonville.. I have known Ms Waugh quite well for most of the time since 1982 . She has the necessary background, having a nursing and medical background, she worked tirelessly for Atlantic Beach elementary in establishing their garden and promoting healthy and safe meals for the students. Then she worked tirelessly for Beam for many years to provide food to the needy and has done so with amazing joy and enthusiasm. I believe she has an energy level that is unequalled on all levels. She would often report in passing which of the local grocers committed to contribute excess food to Beam and was active in gathering it and handing it out. Her interest in local government has always been evident and at the forefront of her thoughts, from traffic patterns to saving the trees. Her family is one of exemplary living having 3 generations live within one home. She remains very active in her grandchildren lives and activities. Her two children are major contributors to the community, her oldest daughter being a very recognizable tv news anchor and her youngest daughter being a rapidly rising assistant district attorney in Jacksonville.. Her husband , a close friend, for many years contributed to Back to Work organization , helping those released from prison find jobs and become productive members of society. Her two sons in laws, both Atlantic Beach residents„ are strongly contributing members of society, her oldest son in law just having completed 20 years with CSX and her youngest son in law, a budding young lawyer in private practice. She is an extremely well read deep study of important local issues and takes into account all points of view. She would be a blessed addition to the city commission, you cant go wrong here. eplasser@)coab.us Sincerely, Kenneth N. Fink 1973 Beach AVe. Atlantic Beach, Florida 32233 904-6163612 cell beachbliss@aol.com