1,000 Friends of Florida Changes Amendment 4 Position

Good news for Florida Hometown Democracy: 1,000 Friends of Florida have changed their official position on Amendment 4 from against to neutral. 1,000 Friends of Florida still believes Amendment is problematic. The organization is also unsatisfied with how growth management is handled in Florida.

The not-for-profit 1,000 Friends of Florida "still believes that there are flaws with Amendment 4," board member Nathaniel Reed said. "However, we also recognize that the on-the-ground results of the existing growth management system are far from perfect and need major improvement. In the face of this dilemma, we understand how the debate over Amendment 4 may serve as a catalyst for change."

1,000 Friends of Florida is concerned that voters will not approve projects that are good for local communities. That is the risk with democracy. The exchange of giving people the power is that the people will sometimes make the wrong decisions. Richard Nixon was elected president twice and the republic still survived.

The official ballot summary.

Establishes that before a local government may adopt a new comprehensive land use plan, or amend a comprehensive land use plan, the proposed plan or amendment shall be subject to vote of the electors of the local government by referendum, following preparation by the local planning agency, consideration by the governing body and notice. Provides definitions.

This does not mean every new street light or stop sign must be voted on. Major development plans will be voted on by referendum. Wayne Garcia of Florida Hometown Democracy explained these referendums will be set during regular elections. No special elections will be made. I think that is mostly true. However, what happens when a zoning referendum comes up in an off election year. There will be cost incurred.

I say the price of horrible taxpaid zoning plans would be worse. The Hillsborough County Commission got rid of impact fees for parts of the county. Instead of developers paying for the cost of new roads that expense belongs to the taxpayer. The Commission passed this because developers pump campaign contributions into Commission races. Developers are against Amendment 4 because it would end this sweetheart deal.