Governor Speaks to Town at VCC
By: Brian Cronin/Valencia Voice Reporter
Osceola Campus--Florida Governor Charlie Crist spoke at a town hall meeting to address the concerns of the public, January 26, 2009, 6pm. More than 160 people attended this meeting to address concerns ranging from property taxes, to foreclosures, to education, and finally the economy. The crowd was energized to see the Governor and ask their questions but a time constraint allowed for only a few to be heard.
After the introductions of the state and local government officials, Governor Crist spoke informally by leaving the podium to address his constituents, “we are all in it together.” His opening comments focused on the unprecedented economic instability we are all experiencing. He continued to express that even though times are tough and worry is real, “the sun will come up in Florida.”
Before arriving at Valencia, Crist visited a workforce center in Central Florida to address the growing unemployment rate. He recommended visiting employflorida.com as an aid for all residents. Like many others, he is unhappy with the 8.1% and rising unemployment rate.
Jerry Lee Jackson, Kissimmee, the first to ask a question addressed a concern, several attendees had regarding property taxes. “This is a question from my mom, her property taxes have gone from $25,000 to $50,000, why?” Governor Crist replied they should not be doing that with the amendment that was passed last year, and an appeal to the county can be made. This would allow a new appraisal to be made and taxes adjusted.
A part time realtor, native to Florida, asked the question, “What is the state planning to do to decrease the foreclosure rate?” Crist responded by saying he and the members of the government have asked banks to work out negotiations and to free up money so the working class can afford housing. He further asked the public for their help by going to their state senators and representatives to put policy into laws that would specifically address those issues.
The podium was turned over to the Lieutenant Governor Jeff Kottkamp. He fielded the education question from Marion Carrol, a Florida PTA representative. How does the stimulus plan effect education? He replied by answering, “All this has to play out.” As an advocate and believer that education is the great equalizer to the economy, he realizes that funding is a critical question.
After addressing a few more questions, the Governor concluded by quoting President Lincoln, “a government of the people, by the people, for the people,” saying that this is the type of government he wants to be a part of by continue to be invited to forums, like this, that grant him the opportunity to interact with the people elected him to this job.