To make an informed judgment on who best will represent Royal Palm Beach on our council, I attended the candidates forum held Monday, Feb. 22. It left no doubt that our current council members Jeff Hmara and Richard Valuntas (seeking reelection) and Fred Pinto (running for mayor) are the best choices. They demonstrated the dedication, knowledge and variety of experiences necessary to keep our village on a sound financial path (no tax increase in 16 years); maintain an open and responsive government for all members of our community (strategic planning sessions and wide publication of all meetings); and provide outreach/support for small businesses and attention to education, infrastructure and other village needs. As a homeowner, I remember and was particularly impressed with how, several years ago, they challenged FEMA’s flood maps, which would have put most of us in a flood zone and highly inflated our flood insurance rates. Their reevaluation saved us personally a lot of money.
Unfortunately, the three challengers for council were poorly prepared: one was unable to answer questions because she had little information, yet claimed she was ready to start on day one; another was either misinformed or deliberately twisted the facts; and the third made snide comments.
We have had a well-functioning council for many years; there is no need to change it. There will be another candidates forum for Royal Palm Beach, sponsored by the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans on Monday, March 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). I urge our citizens to attend and judge for yourselves who will be the best people to represent you.
Judith Kohler, Royal Palm Beach
