Talk of The Villages Florida - View Single Post - Sunshine Law? We don't need no stinking Sunshine Law!
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Old 02-20-2021, 10:40 PM
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The intent of the Sunshine Law, and similar laws called another name in other states, is generally twofold. First, to prevent public officials from being influenced by conflicts of interest. Second, to insure transparency, meaning that discussions about important issues effecting the general public are taking place in a public forum for all interested parties to have access to if they so choose. I agree with the OP that certain actions pointed out are not in line with the intent of the law. That being said, let’s not cherry pick violations of the intent of the law, but point out all apparent violations. The funding of incumbent commissioners running for re-election by certain parties who expect favorable rulings on their behalf is clearly a conflict of interest. Private meetings with high level representatives of parties hoping for favorable rulings by County Commissioners or Amenity Authority Committee members would be a prim example of violating public transparency. If one is going to call out Sunshine Law violations, be fair and equitable and call them all out.