Letter to the Editor: Improve Communication to Eliminate Surprises

I am quite pleased to observe Marco City Council Meetings where our councilors appear to be focused on fiscal responsibility, transparency, improving efficiency in city business, and responding to the concerns of citizens with respect. Thank you councilors.

However, I would like to express a concern. Four days prior to the Jan. 7 council meeting, the meeting time was changed from the usual 5:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. There was an 8:30 p.m. BCS Bowl Game on TV that same evening. One of the councilors discussed with the city manger, his desire to watch the game. The city manager changed the time without discussing it with the entire council, which surprised some of our councilors. In my opinion, changes made regarding city business should be made with the entire council’s knowledge, not just one councilor and the city manager.

Although this time change was legally advertised, I believe it was not sufficiently advertised. In fairness to all Marco Island citizens, there should be a longer period of notice and be advertised in a local paper in addition to the city’s web page. This would better provide citizens an opportunity to attend and speak at the Marco City Council meetings or watch on cable without missing half the meeting. Not everyone subscribes to the city’s E News and not everyone has Internet access.

Linda J. Turner

Marco Island