Keith Harris’ recent “Cookie Monster” letter (Letters, Aug. 1) reflects a significant lack of understanding of public body operations in the Town of Loxahatchee Groves and the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District that are based on recognized purchasing procedures, including evaluated contract piggybacking that can save time and expenses, complying with applicable statutes and coordinating for mutual advantage under the Florida Interlocal Cooperation Act.
Florida public bodies operate in the sunshine. Contracts and interlocal agreements are prepared with legal review and oversight, and all “gas tax” expenditures are documented for review and compliance with statutory requirements. Florida statutes also require independent audits of both the town and water control district — with an additional report on internal controls, a management letter pursuant to rules of the Florida Auditor General, and annual reports to the Florida Department of Financial Services.
While the multiple review and oversight protects property owners and taxpayers, it cannot prevent questionable challenges in the form of complaint filings with the Office of Inspector General, the Palm Beach County Ethics Commission and state officials, inadequately considered referendum petitions, ranting gripe letters to the editor in local papers and unnecessary lawsuits. Everyone has rights to be heard and appropriate recourse for wrongs, but public and legal attacks should be fact based and well considered. Unproductive efforts result in unnecessary expenses — especially legal — that are paid for by property taxes and acre assessments. Better approaches are participation in town and district meetings and workshops, and taking time to understand the reasons for the town and water control district agreements, policies and actions.
Residents that have background issues and frustrations with their own circumstances should better consider their actions and the unintended consequences on all residents. If unsubstantiated attacks are intended to get attention for political reasons, hopefully the general public will consider this in any upcoming referendums and elections.
Keith Harris’ letter is an example of unfortunate, disjointed anger. All of us would be better served if residents are informed, participate and support positive developments in the town and the water control district.
John Ryan, Loxahatchee Groves
Editor’s note: Mr. Ryan is a Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District supervisor.
