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During my years as your district commissioner, I have said that I am here to help you. You have brought me your complaints and your problems. You have shared your concerns and opinions with me. I have always tried to do all I can to help solve problems, resolve issues and negotiate compromises. Sometimes, it has not been easy. Sometimes, I think it is a thankless job. But recently, I found out you are here to help me.
I am referring to the article in the September 16th edition of the Palm Beach Post. I am certain that by now, you have read or heard about this story. It left an open-ended impression that could have confused readers. I want to clear up any confusion.
The reader is left with the impression that in August of last year, I made a $2 million contribution using my "discretionary" funds to the Lyons Road project that will connect Boynton Beach Blvd. with Atlantic Ave. for the benefit of developers. The complete story would have told the reader that many residents were asking that the Lyons Road missing link be built as soon as possible to disperse the traffic on Hagen Ranch Road, Jog Road and State Rd. 7 and to increase response times for the Sheriff and Fire Rescue. The $2 million enabled the Engineering Department to accelerate the project.
The County Commission initiated discretionary funding to assist each commissioner in meeting particular needs in his/her district. One project that benefits all residents in District 5 was the installation of illuminated street signs at our major intersections. These were paid for using $750,000 of my discretionary funding. Other $100,000+ projects that help protect residents include streetlights, guardrails, turn lanes and road widening.
The reporter also thought it noteworthy to inform the reader that developers have contributed to two organizations that I support, the Palm Beach International Film Festival and Floridians for Stem Cell Research and Cures. The impression is given that I am being solicited for or thanked for my support on their projects. The complete story would have told the reader that many companies and individuals have supported my fund-raising efforts. During my years as a county commissioner, I have worked to raise funds for the Caridad Center, Queen of Peace, Special Olympics, DEBT (Derail the Bullet Train) and Hospice in addition to the Film Festival and the Stem Cell issue.
As a public servant I am aware of the trust that you have placed in me for nearly 15 years. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who have called or sent letters expressing your support for me and your confidence in me. I wish I had the opportunity to personally thank each and every one of you.
I will continue to do as I have always done - represent the people of district 5 as well as all the people in Palm Beach County. I will do it with honor. I will do it with dignity. I will do it with integrity. And I will do it to the best of my ability.
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