Pinellas County Commission often out of touch with residents

Diane Steinle, Editor of Editorials-North Pinellas            In Print: Sunday, May 24, 2009

In 1999, Pinellas County residents who wanted a more responsive and accountable County Commission voted to expand the commission from five members to seven and elect four commissioners from districts rather than countywide. Ten years later, has the change had the desired result? Is the Pinellas County Commission more responsive, more accountable and better connected to the public it is supposed to serve?

Based on comments in letters, e-mails and blog postings, many residents apparently would argue that it is not — that there is a growing gulf between the commission and the public. Their comments are colored by disappointment or a "throw the bums out" bitterness.

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