Unsung hero

Kudos go out to Hernando County attorney, Garth Coller, for his advice to our county commissioners in reference to holding meetings with developers and citizens that are considered to be quasi-judicial. While representing his clients, the Hernando County Commissioners, Mr. Coller informed them that preliminary meetings before quasi-judicial hearings take place is against the law. Mr. Coller was quoted in this morning's Hernando Times as saying, "That statute speaks for itself and it is very clear."

Mr. Coller advice was to protect the interests of his clients, the commissioners, but also protects the very system of fairness and Sunshine in re-zoning and Comprehensive Plans changes that are heard under quasi-judicial process.

It is really a shame the county commissioners need to be told this very basic information. The lax rules of engagement for developers, or citizens, with county commissioners prior to quasi-judicial hearing has become common place. It seems that our commissioners has somehow forgotten that Sunshine is the best policy of representation for the electorate, at large.

Thank your Garth Coller for all your hard work protecting county interests. You are the unsung hero of the day!