12/20:

Mulders Follies
     Well Debary residents,we were treated with the presence of the "honorable"Mayor Mulder at our city council meeting.Wasn't that special? One more time they try to force feed us this "million dollar albatross" of a Partnership Center.Excuse me your excellency you apparently are the only one that wants it!! At a time where the cities have rolled back taxes and put off capital projects,you want to make this southwest Volusia county palace and for what? Is this going to be your legacy of Mayor of Deltona? Are you trying to be the "Great Arbitrater" of Volusia County?
     Mayor Mulder,this would be a great idea if Volusia county economics was in a better shape than what it currently is.We do need a place to congregate and bring in events.But now is not the time.At this point,the citizens do not want it,your own council cannot decide on it,and Daytona Community College is sick of it.Instead of moving on and trying other fronteers,you are as fixated on this project as a baby is on his Binky.What part of NO do you not understand?
     I am still in shock at your cameo appearence at our city council meeting and you asking the city of Debary of our "kinship" with Deltona.The closest link to our fair cities is the fact that we share city borders and are in the same county district.When you take away those two points is where it ends.You have the high schools!!You have the middle schools!!We have an overcrowded elementary school.
     Mayor Mulder,it is time to kill this money eating parasite before it "sucks" all the money out of this side of the county.Lets stick the wooden stake in the heart of this monster and finally put it to rest.Cann't we all just get along without this?Please fixate on solving the problems of Deltona before you also go broke!!!Masiarczyk left you in good standing,I doubt that you are financially as set now.
                                        Mark Meister

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11/26:

Administration 1  Teachers  0
>>
>>                School Board Goes Overboard
>>
>>             Just when one would think that Volusia County Government should be listening to the will of the people,another governmental entity turns around and ignores us and places their collective thumbs on their noses to the good citizens of Volusia County.The latest incredulous move is for the Volusia County School Board giving Themselves an 8% payraise.This is just another travesty executed by another administration totally out of control.
>>             At a time when we have overcrowding of schools and next to no learning materials and books for students, this incomprehensible group of men and women decide to put the educational pursuits of its students on the back burner and put their own desires and pursuits ahead of them.What a message they are sending to taxpayers of this county.You would have to think that they consider themselves more important than the true workers that are in the trenches.
>>            Our school teachers make less money and spend what they do make on materials that will enhance and aid in the educational pursuits of our children and get next to nothing in compensation or credit.These educaters are full time workers who put in extra time before and after classes while this part time group of inept individuals gets paid more money and benefits.They rarely see the children that they are making key decisions for and have lost a sense of reality if they do not have kids in the school system themselves.
>>            These so-called adminisitraters will spend 30 million plus on a beautiful school on the east side of the county and than spend a wasteful 93 million on a school in Orange City.We do need another COUPLE of high schools on the westside of the county ,but one would have to think for the money being spent that we could have TWO schools over here and a middle school in Debary to put all these children that are coming out of Debary Elementary and redistribute the students closer to their homes and cut out another few bucks in transportation.
>>             If these so-called administrators would get off their collective "duffs" and make LOGICAL decisions instead wasteful ones,maybe they could earn the money that they do receive.Lets cut down on these portable classrooms and build perminent ones and eventually cut down on classroom sizes,than I think you will earn "the big bucks".Lets start listening to your constituents that voted you in.If we voted you in,we can also vote you out!!Lets get it together Volusia County School Board!!
>>
>>                                                Mark Meister

 

 

11/24:

Meadowlea on the River has been a community that has had its share of trials and tribulations.We have persevered because of our persistance and the leadership of Doll Desantos as association president.Whenever there was a situation which tried to overcome our community,Doll was there.She has shown strong leadership,wise judgement,and commitment above and beyond the call of duty.When Empire Cattle with Steve Costa tried to develope and take away our way of life,she was there.When the question of eminent domain was thrust upon us,with the cooperation of the association and most of the residents,cleaned up the park and proved to the city of Debary that our community was a good representative of the city.
          Another thing that is not well known is the fact that Doll was a proponent of the youth of Meadowlea when others were highly critical of their behavior.We have had our problems with a few of the youth but in all ,we have a good bunch of kids and she has fought to get things to keep them active.
          I know for a fact that during the Empire Cattle situation,
she was constantly involved with the legalities and fighting with and against the city of Debary on saving our way of life.We came very close to Costa developing his Alexander Woods complex and if it wouldn't have been for her,he would have started building next year.She was on top of the water situation that we are currently involved with now and continues to fight with the county on possible impact fees that could be outragious.
          I am sorry to say that because of term limitations,she will be leaving office at the beginning of the year.She will sorely be missed as our representative to the city of Debary.I have enjoyed working with her against the Empire Cattle issue and look forward to future endevours that we may both be involved in.She is a tremendous asset to our community and whether you may like her or not,we owe her a great deal of gratitude.I hope the next association president has the same commitment and fortitude she has.Take care Doll and I am proud to call you a friend.

                                             Mark Meister

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11/24:

Congratulations Volusia County.Once more you are proving how inept and uncaring you can be.When I hopped on to debarypop.com and saw the latest Tom Foolery that our "braintrust" has come up with on the suggestion that they are "thinking!!" of shutting down six regional libraries in Volusia county.Whomever decided this moronic brainstorm would probably kick the cane of a one legged man.
       Volusia county complains about the quality of education and why we have such a high drop out rate and what better way to fuel the fire than to close libraries.This is the one place where youth that really care about their education can go and add to their ongoing learning experience and the county "pulls the rug from under their feet".This makes about as much sense as giving a drowning man a glass of water.
       We the people of Debary have invested money into having a library that we can be proud of.Everyone who has lived here remembers the "rinky-dink" library we had off of Azalea Drive and how we couldn't even turn around in it.Is this what we get for our money that was spent to preserve our literature and city documents for all the good citizens of Debary to look up and read when we want?
       The one group who should be "all over this" is the Volusia County School Board.This is another strike in the count of peoples trust in the quality of education for our youth.It is time for them to stand up and find alternative solutions for this problem.We cann't have a Middle School in Debary and now we cann't have a library.I consider this move scandulous to say the least.Lets have the School Board stand up for something other than pay raises for the administration.
       The volusia County Council should be raising Hell for letting this act of educational terrorism to happen in this county.Sure,money is tight but the council wanted a pay raise also.Where was this money going to come from? Our youth are and have been considered second class citizens in this county and state for decades and now we just add another brick in the wall.
       All citizens of Volusia County.LETS WAKE UP!!! This is a very just cause and should be fought as hard as the "no vote" on the county and city amendments.Lots of money was spent on this campaign.Why not spend the effort and money on a good cause that effects ALL CITIZENS of Volusia County.LETS KEEP OUR LIBRARIES OPEN AND FIND OTHER SOLUTION S TO THIS PROBLEM!! Lets show the youth that care that we care too.

                                                 Mark Meister

11/24:

Finally the election is over and now it is time to reflect how this is going to effect us here in southwest Volusia county and Debary.The repercusions of this election will cause ripples and waves in the political pool of this county.In the last few days,a couple of other matters has "popped up" and please humor me as I comment on them.I will discuss them in chronological order.I think you will find these items interesting and aggrevating at the same time.Here is my list and my thoughts.

1.Drippy Drip Drop wins Debary Election:
        Mike Lafferty used this name for the drop of water on the signs that the city distributed around Debary to promote the stormwater referendum.I do believe that the message for the referendum could have been better planned but the people voted for it and I am pleased that we may be taking a few steps forward and addressing a problem that has been ignored for many years.I pray that the city council has the wisdom to complete these much needed services for the good people of Debary and not get side tracked in other capital projects.This was a good victory for the city and the citizens.

2.Touch Screen Screw Ups:
        Once again we prove Volusia county cannot conduct an election without something going wrong either by mechanical or by human error.I do not like touch screen voting and personally do not trust it.I would rather have a paper trail then have a thunderstorm come in and wipeout important voting tabulations.I am leary of these machine and every year I am proven right by somewhere in Volusia county.At least we cann't blame "chads" for this one.

3.Lame Duck Long Takes Trip on County:
        Once again Bill Long commits political suicide.The citizens of the county are griping about councilpersons taking trips and wasting the taxpayers money and "long"  and behold,our fearless leader takes a trip and is planning on a second one before he leaves office.His explaination is that he will "fill in" Pat Northey on this important information when she is in office.I do think Pat Northey is a very knowledgable individual and knows fully her job and is capable of making logical conclusions on her own.Why spend taxpayers money on a trip for a lame duck?

4.VolusiA County Speaks,Council Listens,and Citizens get Spanked
       Just in case you haven't noticed;since we voted down the county amendments and their payraises,council has been a little testy lately and I will just sit back and wait to see what other little deeds of wisdom comes out of their chambers.I have two situations that directly affect me and I will comment on this later.I am sure they will give me more ammunition and I will be showing up at county council meetings in the near future.

5.Possible Closings and Cutbacks on the County Library System:
       If it wouldn't be for Norm Erickson,this little "gem" would have passed under the radars of the local papers until THEY instituted these discriminatory proposals.It finally made the Sentinel on Tuesday's edition and did not make the Volusia County papers.I have written about this in "Another Brick in the Wall" in the citizens editorials on this site and please read the home page on this important issue.PLEASE ATTEND THIS ALL IMPORTANT MEETING THAT INVOLVES OUR LIBRARY SYSTEM IN VOLUSIA COUNTY.I am sure that the time and place will  be posted on this site and hopefully the local papers.

6.Volusia County Personel Manager Arrested on Alleged DUI Charges:
       A Volusia County employee,Micheal Dean Lary, was arrested for DUI charges the other evening. This has happened before in this county,but he was carrying assorted firearms in his vehicle also.( Doesn't this sound familiar? )It was reported that he was allowed to carry these firearms but why would anyone carry three or four weapons in your car? I would like to know what he would be hunting.

       I thought when Volusia County had the election,things would get quiet and return back to normal.The county always finds a way to shoot itself in the foot and here we go again.I hope the new administration will have the wisdom and foresight to lead this county on to a better horizion.I would also like to congratulate Pat Northey on her election win.I am sure we will have more representation now than we have had in the past two years.Just maybe things will look up and the future be brighter.Only time will tell.

                                             Mark Meister

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New Editorials from Mark Meister and "Van" Conoley: 10/28

>As the unofficial watchdog of SW Volusia, I try very hard to stay
>current with city and county issues.  I will walk my neighborhood
>several days before the general election and give my views to my
>neighbors in written form.  I ALWAYS AVOID STATE CANDIDATES AND
>FEDERAL CANDIDATES.  However, the WATCHDOG learned just today, that
>I shall have to break this rule regarding a statewide amendment.  
>The crooks in the Laughislature are trying to pull a fast one on the

>People.  AMENDMENT  #3 the Watchdog strongly recommends a no vote since it attempts to
>change the PEOPLE'S ability to institute a constitutional amendment
>from 50%+ 1 to 60%.  CAN YOU BELIEVE THESE
>SCUMBAGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  

Please help the watchdog get the word
>out.  Remember this is a STATE amendment that is designed for the
>special interest, of the special interests, and by the special
>interests.  THE WATCHDOG APOLOGIZES FOR NOT CATCHING THIS
>EARLIER!!!!!!!!!!!!!
>

RV Van Conoley

"The Watchdog"

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10/27:

I am a person who likes to keep himself informed at what is going on within my neighborhood,city,and county.I ,for one,do not like political surprises and I try to keep my fingers on the pulse of my section in the world.I subscribe to three local publications as well as clicking on to debarypop.com and contributing whenever possible as most of you who do frequent this site know.I feel this is my duty as well as yours to get all sides to an issue or situation and make an informed opinion or conclusion.This is just the way I am and I welcome positive as well as constructive criticism.This is what the system is all about and I like to think that most individuals share my sentiment as well.
> I have been noticing a trend that is disturbing in our city and my inner instincts is telling me to be on the alert.Whenever an issue concerns Debary,Patrick Fulton or Maryann Courson is always the ones that are quoted in the newspapers.I know as city manager that this is part of Maryanns job.Sometimes she has a tendency to jump the gun and overstep her authority.I feel that on many occasions she has set policy that is totally not in her job discription and no one from city council objects until the damage is done.A good example is with the bond referendum that is on the ballot in next months election.Hopefully for the ones in Debary this involves,it passes and citizens lives will go back to normal without as much fear as they have now when a storm should happen to cross our path.By changing the amount of the bond without city council recomandation and commenting on it in the newspapers is causing many of citizens to be cautious about voting for this referendum.The council did correct the problem but not without some fallout that may jeopardize this much needed improvement in the city's stormwater system.This has been a negative factor in many peoples lives but has been ignored by past city councils.
> This is just one example of Maryann Courson setting policy and on many occasions council will accept it without much arguement.I feel this is an abuse of her power and no one that is NOT an elected official but an employee of the city should set policies and standards that are not first considered by the council itself.This is also a weakness in this council to permit this activity.
> My second objection is with Vice-Mayor Patrick Fulton and how he took credit for most of the happenings that involved Meadowlea on the River.He is claiming that he was instrumental in winning the litigation when he commented that we could not win.When I approached him on this subject at last council meeting,he denied this in front of God,council,and me.There is proof of what he said and it has been transcribed on this site.People do not have that short of a memory or are not that nieve.
> During the water problem in Meadowlea,he claimed that he was down here and no one saw hide nor hair of him.He approached me after the same aftermentioned meeting and told me that he was here at 6:45 (I assume PM) and nobody was present.Why didn't he contact Gertrude Desantos that he was going to be present then.Mayor Coleman would call her or myself two or three times a day during this time and we did not receive one call from him.The night that he claimed to be down here was the night that water was given out and Mayor Coleman and Danny Tillis were down here to at least 7:00 pm.Gertrude and I were down there also and we did not see him at one time!!Who is he trying to fool??
> Another problem with Fulton is his weekly email newsletters.I have found out that if you question his view points,he will threaten and carryout not sending his email anymore.This has happened to Gertrude Desantos who is our homeowner asssociation president.He is like a little child that if you do not agree with him,he will take his toys and go home.
> I do like George Coleman and in my opinion,he really cares about his constituents.He is very congenial and easy to get along with.I feel that Courson and Fulton take advantage of this and upstage him whenever possible.They are constantly being interviewed in the papers and giving the impression that THEY are running the city.It makes you wonder who is running the assylum of Debary city hall.Remember the words from Julius Caeser.Ettu Brute!!!Mayor Coleman,it is time to pull in the reins before the inmates take over the assylum.

> Mark Meister

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10/27:

Citizens of Debary,a major victory has been won that will send ripples all through Volusia county.I am pleased to announce that the city of Debary has won their litigation with Empire Cattle and Steve Costa.This proves that greedy landowners and developers CANNOT have carte blanche over our city or our county if the people are not in favor of unwise and unwanted growth and developement.It proves that the good citizens of this city can and will take control of Debary and create the kind of city that will be successful now and the twenty-first century.
                             Unfortunately Vice-Mayor Fulton is "politically patting" himself on the back and taking credit where credit is not due.In his most recent email report releases,he mentions that he and Mayor Coleman were instramental in achieving this key decision.I have no arguement that Mayor Coleman was behind his constituents in Meadowlea and Debary.Fulton constantly stated that we could not say no to the proposed zoning change.He also said that we would not win the litigation.How can this be construed as assisting in this case?Oh what a troubled web we weave when for those we do deseive.
                             Vice-Mayor Fulton,if I was in YOUR position,I would be congratulating the resolve of the good citizens of Debary and Meadowlea on the River and especially the fine job that was done by our city legal staff than to say that his  commentary was the difference in this zoning litigation.The only significant comment was about density of the developement.This I will give him credit for.
                             I also find it interesting that people who do not agree with his political views are "threatened" that we will not receive his email anymore which is telling me that he is above reproach from permiting the citizens to express their opinion to his ideas.I consider this to be like the child who cannot play with others and he will take his toys and go home.If he cannot handle criticism,than he is in the wrong occupation and should seek a different source of employment.
                            In closing,the situation with Empire Cattle is probably not over.Mr. Costa will come before the council and submit a revised version of his developement or maybe a whole new idea.We the people have to stay in touch with what is going on around us and stay informed.We must keep the fingers on the pulse of the city and beware of any other new developements that may threaten our way of life.We must attend the council meetings and make sure they are representing us and not their own special desires.Only we can make our city as great as WE want it to be.

                                                                                                                             Mark Meister

 

NEW: 10/12:

I would like to clear a misconception.I stood in front of the council
that evening for an apology.The reason that I do not pay taxes is that
my medical condition caused me to lose everything I do own outright.I
cannot work any longer because of several heart conditions which means
I do not get an EARNED income.I currently reside in the city of Debary
but do not own property.The system will not allow me to or I lose the
medical assistance that I do receive.In my case,I MAY have five years
to live and raise a sixteen year old.
>      The comment that Maryann made was taken care of in a
professional and personal manner in which she and I BOTH apologized to each other.
.She understands my situations and I know she is
under the gun from the duties she performs with the city.I have to deal
with my condition and support a son and do get discouraged from time to
time.That is why situations happened the way they did.I also wish to
thank Maryann and offer my public apology for my actions that night.
>      The reason that I do speak in front of council and write on this
forum is that I am a product of the system.I had to fight very hard to
even get the assistance that I do receive.If you would have listened
that evening,you would have understood that I was close to death and in a
very serious condition.During the recovery,I decided to make a
difference in my life and give it meaning.That is why I do what I do.It is a
free country and I DO HAVE THE RIGHT TO SPEAK UNDER FIRST AMENDMENT
RIGHTS.YOU NOR ANYONE ELSE CAN TAKE THIS AWAY FROM ME LIKE MY POSESSIONS
THAT I DID EARN AND LOST!!!These are the very foundations our country was
built and based on.So lets set the matter straight,I did not ask to be
in the situation I am and I am trying to make the best out of it.
'nough on this!!
>         As for the skatepark,this was a tough matter for me too.My
son rides BMX and also attends the skateparks in Deltona and Lake Mary
and one in Orlando.He just turned sixteen and he drives himself there
more now and I tend to stay home and give him his sense of freedom.I am mproud to say that he has placed seventh in the Deltona competition and third in the Deland.
         This is my point.The city has overspent and unfortunately our kids skatepark has to be put aside until we can build up the reserves.As you know,Danny Tillis is still trying to get grants to help fund for the park.All may not be lost yet.I hope as well as you that he can be successful with this endevour.I believe the kids need things to do in this city and this is a good start.Just have some patients and at least one of the councilmen is trying.
         I hope this explains everything to you Mrs.Portillo.I think we are on the same side.Do not hesitate to write on this forum whether it be pro or con of the majority.This is our voice to the people to practice our rights.This is our way to convey our ideas to the city.

                                                 Mark Meister

 

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NEW: 10/4

This was sent to Norm Erickson from Danny Tillis. I asked him if he wanted me to put it up as an editorial and would Ms. Portillo want me to put it up; he said "yes" to both. She makes some good points and I thank her for it and welcome more commentary from her and all citizens. All I added to Ms. Portillo's editorial were spaces to separate her ideas.

Norm Erickson

I was unable to stay for the whole meeting last night; I had to pick up my kids and a car full of kids at the Deltona skate park.  By the way, out of curiosity I tried county how many kids where skating at the park, 48, but probably more by the end of the night.   Before I left you talked about how a skate park would just continue to take money away from DeBary.  Let me just inform you that a skate park would have been the only sport in DeBary that could have generated money for DeBary.  I spent all day Sunday at the Deltona Skate Park, there was a large BMX & Skate park competition, sponsored by local businesses.  All the prizes where donated by local business, the city made money by charging the kids 10.00 in advance and 15.00 the day of the competition to register.  A new skate shop in Deltona provided the prizes.  The competition started at 8:30 a.m. and finished around 5:00 p.m.  I bought food at the local pizza place, I put gas at the local gas station, like hundreds of people did that day.  There where kids and parents from Deland, Longwood, Port Orange just to name a few,  hundreds of people came to enjoy a day at the stake park.  The Deltona skate park is a free park and not even a very good park, yet every night since the park opened several years ago, there is at least 30 kids at the park.  What park in DeBary has at least 30 kids enjoying it all year round?  I take my kids to the Lake Mary skate park where kids pay 3.00 every night to skate, plus they have a concession stand where hundreds of drinks and snacks are sold.  I buy dinner at the local sandwich shop, I put gas there, I go to the grocery store there and again the Lake Mary Skate Park is nowhere as nice as the park the City of DeBary was planning on building. 

What in DeBary, besides an accident on 1-4 brings people into DeBary?  I was at the Orlando skate park two weeks ago on a Friday night; a professional skate team was putting on a demo, hundreds of kids, parents and spectators.  The team had a scavenger hunt afterwards for kids to run and find products, there was an autograph signing, and it was a good time had by all.  I couldn’t help thinking about our future skate park and noticing the money the Orlando park made, charging 6.00 for a 5 hour skate session, the drinks and snacks that the park was selling, not to mention the Orlando skate park was smart enough to have their very own skate shop, where kids can buy boards and accessories.….no other sport can do that and make that kind of money for the city.  When does a professional baseball team come to a local park for a demo?  A skate park would only generate money for DeBary, even if it where free, even if you had to pay a minimum wage employee part time like Deltona does.  I have been to many skate parks and I have seen local area business, gas stations, restaurants boom from the skate park visitors.  I have seen shops and restaurants open just to be located near a skate park. Build a skate park and a skate shop will open, restaurants will open, existing business will make money and DeBary will make money. 

Anyone who has written to you with any negative remarks about a skate park just has no idea the money that the city can make.  I had to drive all the way back to Deltona and face a large group of kids anxious to know the outcome.  I was brutally honest with them, I said “there will be no skate park this year and honesty probably never, the city has decided that Maryann Courson will have her new office” (she sure was quick to ask that the money be allocated to another project, like her new office).  When one little boy who was at the first meeting asked “but we went to the meeting, they said there was going to be a park, the best one around, Team Pain is going to build it”…I just simply said, “they lied”. 

I know that any grant money will have to be given back if not used by a certain time.  I didn’t want to explain to the kids that the money would be put into “reserve” we all know that’s just a way of saying you’ll use the money for another project.   I am constantly asked the status of the skate park, my response was last night and will continue to be “it will never happen”, The citizens of DeBary that are involved just do not get it, they are stuck in the past, complaining about progress, wishing the Winn Dixie was still a baseball field? 

Not paying their taxes!  Does that man have to speak?  The audacity to even think he has a voice, I am so glad Maryann did not apologize to him, he should apologize to us the citizens that do pay our taxes. 

The young professional parents who own homes in the Country Club who are involved in their teenager’s lives and sports are accustomed to having nothing to do with DeBary.  They take their kids to play soccer at Dewy Booster, their kids are signed up in the Volusia County soccer clubs, there kids attend schools far away, they take their kids to the Lake Mary skate park, all their family activities are done outside of DeBary.  They live in DeBary for the location and because they got more for their money compared to Lake Mary, not because it provides anything for their family.  

That’s why so many do not attend meetings and you are stuck dealing with the same people.  There is nothing that keeps them besides their homes in DeBary, a skate park would have kept families in DeBary and families from neighboring communities coming to DeBary and making money for DeBary and the few business we have in DeBary. 

My trust in local politics, from candidates promising they would not raise taxes to promising kids a skate park went out to window last night.  The kids learned a real life lesson last night.

Sincerely,

Diana Portillo

 

 

 

NEW: 10/4:

I agree whole heartedly with your response.If you notice,a lot of whispering and mumbling is being practiced and I think this constitutes a breach in the Sunshine law.Vice Mayor Fulton repeatedly says that they cannot talk or meet in private but they can whisper sweet nothings into each others ears.THIS PRACTICE HAS TO STOP!! It is a slap in the face of the people of DeBary.
    Mr. Redfield,keep attending the meetings and voice your displeasure that this practice is still going on.John Likakis also informed them this could be a breach,and not more than ten minutes, they were at it again.All of them are guilty and should be more considerate of the audience.
   Thank you for writing in Mr. Redfield.This is one subject I have been wanting to tackle for some time.Hopefully see you at the meetings.

                                              Mark Meister

 

NEW: 9/29:

Over and over the same old thing.An important city council meeting that determined the budget for next year and maybe thirty (AND THATS STRETCHING IT) people show up to see the final outcome. What a disapointment it was!! Everyone has an opinion but nobody shows up.This keeps happening and happening.WHERE IS YOUR CIVIC PRIDE?A few of us show up to actually speak to the council,which is all said and good,but you could not take time out from watching an episode from "The Biggest Loser" or a TBS marathon of "Everyone Loves Raymond" to see how these gentlemen are going to spend YOUR money.This is revolting to say the least!!
       What are the excuses people of Debary?Did the cat get caught in the dryer?Is it General Robert E. Lee's birthday and you are planning a big celebration?Or doesn't anyone give a DAMN? What is your excuse?I think I've heard them all!!
       I know that in life,ones schedule can and will become busy.I know that family and work issues do come up and take time away from you.But don't you want to see what happens to your hard earned money!?You have five gentlemen and a city manager making decisions FOR YOU and nobody shows up?
       Hey,I know that these meetings are dry and boring.Sometimes it's hard to stay awake through one.This one was the final moment ,the period after the sentence,and thirty people are there to witness it.John Masiarczyk sat through this meeting and he isn't even a resident!!FOR SHAME PEOPLE OF DEBARY!!
       I know that there is going to be a lot of discusion in the next few weeks with what has transpired Wednesday evening.Everyone is going to be up in arms at what projects will be in the budget and which ones that aren't.But remember;if you were not there than why should you gripe.You just might have been the one that could have made the difference.Think about that as you eat your Cheetos and watch "Dancing with the Stars" on Wednesday nights as your money is being spent.It is up to you to make the difference!!

                                                Mark Meister

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NEW: 9/28:

Maryann's Comment

           Tonight I come before the council to file a  public complaint.Last week,Mr. Gene Stump made a statement to our city manager Maryann Courson that I would be speaking in front of the council about the millage rates.Maryann's comments were why should he speak because he doesn't pay taxes.What a cold and heartless statement to make when YOU didn't even know the facts.So I would like to register this in public record and explain why this statement is true and let the facts be known.

           Two and one half years ago,I was diagnosed with a severly enlarged heart,cardiomyopathy,congestive heart failure,an infraction rate of 18 percent(that means my heart only works one sixth of what a normal heart does),a pacemaker and defibulater was installed so I'd have a chance to make the hospital in time to be saved,an aortic valve replacement,and many other stomach ailments that are caused from the 13 medications I take each and every day.I had to endure four heart operations in a twelve month period as well as a gall bladder that had to be removed.During my first operation,I was but in a medically induced coma because I was on the table for over seven hours while they tried to reinflate my lungs.In all do respects ,I shouldn't have survived the operation.

           On the third day,I was awakened from my coma and than I was recuperating in the hospital for a month.I was told by my cardiologist that my working days were over and my piece of the American dream would not exist.Hense, the reason I do not pay taxes.

           While I was rehabing in the hospital,I decided that I would try to make a difference in my own little part of the world.The Empire Cattle situation came up that directly involved me and that is what created what I have become today.I am tired of watching the good people of Debary and southwest Volusia county being trampled by their own public servents that were elected by the people to represent them!!!

           Maryann,I consider your comment as a cold attempt to run me down in front of one of my peers.Mr. Stump and I had discussed this situation.He did not ask for this information.What I am asking in return is a public appology from you to be put in record in front of God,council,and the good people of this city.The ball is in your court.I apologise for taking the time away from a most important decision that this city has to make tonight.

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NEW: 9/24:

Thank you Mark Meister for your letter.  I agree with most of what you said.
My husband and I were in attendance at the Council Meeting on 9/20/06.

Our hearing is fine, however, we could hardly hear the councilmen to a point
that it seemed like they were mumbling to themselves.  As you recall, some
of those in attendance asked that the councilmen  to use their microphones
and to speak up.  Hence the reason why so many didn't stay until the end of
the meeting, including myself and husband.   If we are to "express our
ideas"  we would like to hear the response.

Thank you.  T.Ehlers/46 Marigold

 

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NEW: 9/22:

This is a moral victory for the people of Debary.Last night when the council voted 3-2 to lower the proposed millage rate to 3.0000,most people took it for granted that there should not be any tax increase what so ever.Because of the citizens of Debary,we stopped the city council from having carte blanche when it comes to what the cities constituents want and need.Now comes the inenviable task of reconstructing the budget to the new millage rate.one thing is for sure,everyone will not be happy and cuts will be made down the board.This will affect everyone.
   Lets look at the problem and figure out where did everything go wrong.My first thought is past city councils that did not project the kind of growth that manifested itself in Debary.They saw Debary as a small back woods town that had the capablity to become large but not so quickly.They lacked foresight which is a common mistake in the state of Florida.I have no reason for it but it is quite common.This is reason number one.
   Reason two is todays city council did have a nice "nest egg" and over spent on capital projects and decided to plan them all in one lump sum instead of phasing in what is absolutely needed instead of what is wanted.This strategy looked good on paper but when it was time to bring these plans to fluition,it was too late and now the council is left out on a limb.
   Reason three was unavoidable because of Mother Nature.The laws of average would not have sent four hurricanes into central Florida in a twelve month period.The flooding and damage was a big hinderence but cannot be the full blame for the problems Debary has today.I am glad to see FEMA finally come through and give us the money our city was owed.
   Reason four is the city manager Maryann for jumping the gun and basicly mandating the millage would have to be 3.5 before looking at all avenues.This was decided without much debate and tossed in front of the council and voted on,believing that her way was the only way.Sorry council,we were thrown to the lions just like the Christians of ancient Rome.Many of people will still suffer for the haphazzard mistakes of Maryann.They now have to come up with a miracle solution to solve how we are going to get along with a slash accross the boards in the budget.This decision has to be done in one evening before we lose all funds for not submitting a budget on time.Good luck!!
    Reason five is the unkindest cut of all.The blame for ALL of our problems rests in the citizens of Debary for not coming out to the meetings and letting things happen until it was too late.People only show up when the issues are pertaining to them.This is a selfish and foolish behavior that is the down fall of civalization in a whole.If it doesn't bother me why should I care.Last night was a prime example of this behavior.Everyone comes to "bitch and moan" about the millage and forgets that the skate park was brought up to council with almost an empty house.When the millage issue was over,most of the people left and did not care about anything else.When will you learn that free speach and the right to vote is the principals our country was created by and yet we foolishly do not participate.The cause of our problems is US!!!!NO ONE BUT US FOR LETTING THINGS GET OUT OF HAND.PROVE ME WRONG!!!
     If any one out there wants to prove me wrong,get on your PC and write to debarypop.com and practice your first amendment right.Show me you care about your city and show up at the meetings and express your ideas.Get involved and donate some time and effort to the city and show our civic pride.You can make the difference in Debary and Volusia county by voting in the November election.This is YOUR CIVIC DUTY!!It is up to you.All the "bitching and moaning" will not matter if you do not vote.

                                              Mark Meister

LET THE PEOPLE OF DEBARY AND VOLUSIA COUNTY SHOW YOUR CIVIC PRIDE AND DUTY IN NOVEMBER!!

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Marryann's Evaluation
                 This by no means is meant to be a personal assasination but a laymans view of a difficult and tedious job.As I sit in the auduiance,I see the trend of the city council to play a follow -the -leader mentality to many of the issues and this trend is due to the lack of preparation and research this council actually does.In many of ways,it looks as if the council is inept and Marryann has to pick up the ball and run with with it ,making her look as if she is setting policy. The real reason is the councils lack of vision and that creates the illusion of Marryann having too much responsibility and power.When grading the city manager,I think we should also grade the council she works for and how well they work together as a cohessive unit or a jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces.I would give the council a C-  just passing because of a lack of communication with the city manager.
                 I personally do not see Marryann at work but I can rate her by the presentation that she gives.It shows she is a hard worker and noone can take that away from her.She in some respects has to represent the council and for this I give her a B.
                 My next point is not a flattering one and that is her repore with the people of Debary.She has a tendency to get into squables and sometimes arguements with people that have differing points of view.One weakness is to lose ones temper in public and doesn't look good and shows you to be overbearing .For this I give you a D.
                 For my last point.When the subject of the stormwater bond issue came up.It was decided by the council to make it a 10 million dollar bond and that would be the propisition that would appear on the ballot in November.Without discusion,you took it upon yourself to assume that 20 million will be used on the bond issue and even talked to the reporters of two major newspapers that this is the way it would be.You did not even consult the Mayor until it hit the print.This is a faux pas that could cost the city this much needed project and only time will tell if it passes.On one mistake a city could suffer and this was a bad mistake.For this I give you an F.
                 When everything is added up.My grade for your evaluation is a D+ and this reflects the mistakes that you have made combined with the ineptitude of the council.So in all respects,this is the grade I give to the Debary city government and the city manager.you are less than average.Lots of improvements can be made and if this city is to survive the 21st century,we better correct it.

       Mark Meister \

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New: 9/17:

I have stated that Pat Northey has an eastside of the county influence that centers on growth.She was claiming that she represented the ecology and protection of wildlife.She also claimed that she was behind reasonable growth and had no connections to developers.I BEG TO DIFFER!!
> I have paistakingly gone through her election contribution reports.I find them interesting to say the least and can actually back up my statement with the following proof.This is not meant to place blame or even accuse anyone of wrong doing, but to prove that Northey does have eastside interests.These statistics are all public knowledge and can be found on the county's web page.I will list them by the month ,name,business,city and amount.I think you will find them interesting!!
>
> NAME BUSINESS CITY AMOUNT
> JUNE
> 1.J.M. REESE CONSTRUCTION DELTONA 500.00
> 2.ROOT COMPANY REAL ESTATE ORMOND BEACH 250.00
> 3.MICHAEL COTO REAL ESTATE DELAND 500.00
> 4.CONCRETE IMPRESSION CONCRETE (TAMPA FL.) 500.00
> 5.HALCYON UNDERWRITERS INSURANCE (MAITLAND FL.) 500.00
> 6.ANPHER-ROSS INSURANCE (FT. LAUDERDALE) 500.00
> 7.ROEHRIG&McDUFF INSURANCE (ST. PETERSBURG) 500.00
> 8.CHAMPION UNDERWRITERS INSURANCE (FT. LAUDERDALE) 500.00
>
> JULY
> 1.O.C.A. INVESTMENTS INVESTMENT COMPANY DAYTONA 250.00
> 2.SPECIAL EVENTS INVESTMENT COMPANY DAYTONA 500.00
> 3.CENTURY NATIONWIDE DEVELOPEMENT DAYTONA 250.00
> PROPERTIES
> 4.DAYTONA OCEAN FRONT DEVELOPEMENT DAYTONA 250.00
> 5.BELLERMO-HERBERT LANDSCAPING (ORLANDO) 250.00
> 6.DONNIE ROEBUCK CONSTRUCTION DELTONA 500.00
> 7.OCEAN WALK SHOPPES INVESTMENT COMPANY (LOS ANGELES CA.)500.00
>
> AUGUST
> FAIRLY QUIET!!
>
> SEPTEMBER
> 1.DICKENS &ASSOC. ENGINEERING DAYTONA 250.00
> 2.SHEET METAL WORKERS UNION (TAMPA FL.) 500.00
> 3.I.B.E.W. LOCAL UNION UNION DAYTONA 250.00
> 4.B&T FAMILY INC. INVESTMENT DAYTONA 250.00
> 5.CENTURY NATIONWIDE HOTEL DEVELOPEMENT DAYTONA 250.00
> PROPERTIES
>
> Again,I reiterate.No one on the list did anything illegal or wrong.This is a list to show the people of SOUTHWEST VOLUSIA county where Pat Northey's interests may lie.She has plenty of fine upstanding citizens that have contributed their money.My point is that much money has come from other areas and in one case California.She has contributions from the beachside which asks the question;where does her REAL interests lie and why does she preach of managable growth when she was part of the largest growth in the state?Maybe things aren't what they seem!!
>
> Mark Meister
>
> THE PEOPLE WILL MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION IN NOVEMBER!!

 

 

NEW: 9/12

Every eight to ten years it happens,especially in recent American history.Our country goes through this metamorphosis everytime we swing to far to one side or the other of the political spectrum.The last eight years we have swung way to the right and now you can almost feel it in the air.People are tired of government controlling in a "Big Brother" manner as we try to slug through the boxing match of life.These days,government has the proverbial horse shoe hidden in their glove clobbering average Joe until he cannot stand on his own.
> In the last twenty-four hours,government has betrayed the average Joe in two seperate fronts.County council has issued a 16.3 percent increase in a tax reform that will inevitably crunch everyone in Volusia county if it passes on September 21,2006.A new coalition that is called volusia taxes reform.com and is making waves at the county council meetings.This group brought in four bus loads and two private coaches into the meeting at Deland.This group is gaining momentum and I see it as a big player in the next elections.
> On the second front,Debary city council has decided to raise the millage rate of Debary from 2.5 to 3.5 in front of many disappointed residents that felt betrayed.When we elected our city council members in,they promissed not to raise taxes and now our trust has been pulled out from under our feet.The "great experiment of Debary" is failing under an administration that doesn't plan and stagger its capital projects correctly.A skate park becomes more important than a police station that is owned by the city instead of the county.This is a travesty and City Council and City Manager should be held responsible.Please do not blame it on the past hurricanes because they were NOT the only reason.
> The winds of change are coming and dark clouds are just in the horrizan of Volusia county political officers on a municipal and county level.I support the new coalition and will be present at the September 21 meeting.I will wear a sticker with their logo and want to see average Joe become the employer and not the serf.Residents of Volusia county,NOW IS THE TIME TO RETURN OUR COUNTY BACK TO US!!Residents of Debary,lets combine efforts with volusia tax reform.com and take control of our city too.It can only be done at the meetings and the polls.
>
> Mark Meister
>
> LET THE PEOPLE OF DEBARY AND VOLUSIA COUNTY RETURN CONTROL TO THE CITIZENS!!

 

 

Here we go with another episode of "As the Money flows".Time and time again,this council has figuered out more ways to spend our money than Carter has liver pills.They are going to take more money out of our wallets at a time when times are really tough.In the past two years:
> 1.Gas has gone up 45 percent
>
> 2.Electric bills have risen as much as 70 percent
>
> 3.Homowners insurance (for us) has gone up 300 percent
>
> 4.Food has gone up by 30 percnt
> And now you want to nickel and dime us some more.
> Where is this money going to go?Is it going for storm water projects?The new town hall?Will it go for reserves in case of an emergency such as a hurricane?OR will it go for developement, christmas decorations or flower pots with green placks on them?
> Lets face it.This city council has been very inconsistant.One minute they cut projects and as soon as they do get some money,they vote to reinstate them instead of putting it in a reserve.How are they going to act this time?Like children in a candy store or be wise and prudent?If you are going to take money out of my pocket,I want to see it go for purposeful projects instead of one that is fleeting and interests few.
> I do believe our city is at a crossroads and we have to decide either to take the road less traveled or take the same route as everyone else.Will we fall into the same traps as our sister cities have or are we going to be the successful experiment our founders wanted us to be.
> There must be more discussion as what the money will be used for.These are the questions you must raise and the answers you must give.It is up to you five gentlemen.The choice is yours and the consequences are ours.
>
> Mark Meister
>
> The people will have the FINAL word in November!!

 

I have seen my share of political races.I have seen many of dirty tricks in my day.I am so tired of the "good ole boy" network that has established itself in this county for generations.Election after election,the same old things except with different themes.An honest politician does not have a chance in this county and this state {SEE ELECTION 1996 FOR PROOF).Our reputation within this country borders on being a perrenial joke everytime an election takes place here and now in this county.Here we go again!!
  My major concern is with the district 5 county council race.We have an honest politician in John Masiarczyk.He has been up front on ALL issues in every publication that has covered this race.He has laid out his plan and defended his decisions while he was Mayor of Deltona.He gave a comprehensive outline on this political site that none of the rest have answered.The issues are what a campaign is all about .Not who can pull the dirtiest tricks and get away with it!!
  First question is who is pulling all of John Masiarczyk's signs in the city of Deltona?It seems interesting that none of the other twos signs are down!!You can not find a sign with his name on it unless you drive down Deltona Bvd. and see the sign at the strip mall.Cann't pull that one down boys!!
  Next question is where did this big influx of money come from last month with one of the political camps?I would like to know if the people who supported this candidate were repaid their contributions when this person was running in another political race by election laws?Who helped make this political decision to drop out of one race and into another?It had to be someone with influence.
  Another question is why did the incumbant decide not to run and flip flopped their decision when the other changed races?I FIND THIS A TRIFFLE INTERESTING AS WELL.His answer in the begining was that he wanted to get well from his mental illness and alcohol abuse.That was a quick cure!!I guess he feels better now!!
  One last question is this.One of the candidates is claiming that no developers are financially supporting them.I feel that one of them has an eastern Volusia side interest backing this person up.I am not
saying who because I can not exactly prove it but it will come out with the wash if the "network" does not cover it up!!
  By no means did any one put me up to this editorial.These are observations I have noticed since all this peculiar behavior has been happening in this race.The one thing I do know is John Masiarczyk is an honest man who is trying to make a difference in this county.It is frustrating to watch as these antics esculate as the election draws nearer.Why cann't we have an election about the issues and something to be proud about instead of this fiasco?Maybe that is too much of a utopian ideal.
   Reep what ye shall sow.It is in the "Good Book".I DO BELEIVE GOOD THINGS WILL HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE.Good luck John Masiarczyk,we need you!!

                                                Mark Meister

THE PEOPLE WILL DECIDE FOR THE GOOD OF THE COUNTY IN SEPTEMBER AND NOVEMBER!

 

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NEW: 8/21

Before I begin my editorial,I would like to appologize to the lady behind me at the city council meeting.I was NOT laughing at the fact you could lose your home but the irony that all work would have to be finished on April 15,2006 (income tax day}.I for one can sympathize with you because we almost lost our house because our insurance company bailed out on us.
       Another fact is we live at Meadowlea on the River and have seen our fair share of interesting situations too.We are involved in a dispute with YOUR LAWYER Mark Watts defending Empire Cattle.I find irony in that also.Mr. Watts called our homes "tin boxes" so Lord only knows what he REALLY thinks of your homes at Highbanks Marina.
       My arguement is this;if the council moved back your deadline,than they opened themselves up for more argument and litigation by setting a new standard that all compliance violations can and will be tested by lawyers and the very same leeway should be made for them also.This could be like "opening Pandora's box".This is what I meant by that statement.The council was wrong at this time for voting to approve this and will pay for it down the road.
       May I reiterate?I do whole heartedly sympathize with your situation.The last thing I want to see is ones home taken away from them.I also see a lot of problems coming because of it.There is an arguement to be made about the Empire Cattle situation and Meadowlea on the River where I live.You fought and you won.Just get the repairs done in time so this will be the end of it!!Good luck Highbanks Marina and I wish you all well.

                                          Mark Meister

The people of Debary will have the final say!!

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NEW: 7/29

I would like to write about a subject that has come pretty close to home and I mean this in more ways than one.When I picked up the paper the other day and saw that two elderly people were murdered and one seriously injured on Wilson Drive in Port Orange in a manufactured home community.I was a resident of Port Orange before I moved to Debary.My Mom lives less than half a mile from where this occurred.This incident has me shocked and very nervous since she lives alone.The surrounding neighborhoods used to be very quiet and you never heard of incidents happening like this.
> When my folks first moved down here in 1981,Port Orange was a small,friendly city and a nice place to live.In the 1990's the city started to grow with developers breaking land and building new developements at an uncontrollable rate.The city went from a small city to the third largest in Volusia county in a matter of 10 years.The only cities that are larger at that time were Daytona and Deltona.Deltona also is suffering this right now as we speak since it doubled in population and is now the largest in the county.
> Do we see a similarity?Since the uncontrolled growth,both cities are reporting more crime and homicides.This is to be expected but not wanted.Orando is getting to the point of it becoming a shooting gallery and ready to set a new record on shooting deaths.My point is as simple as this,MORE PEOPLE MEANS MORE "SERIOUS" CRIME WITH NO SOLUTION IN SIGHT!
> I eventually moved with my son in 2000 to the beautiful and quiet city of Debary and have not regretted it.Meadowlea on the River has been a wonderful and caring community with everyone helping one another in one way or another.I do not feel so "hemmed in" as I did in Port Orange and we have very liitle crime.I enjoy the fact of walking into our park and seeing the Saint Johns River and all the trees around it.The only "preditor" I have to worry about is an occasional alligator.if you do not bother him ,he will not bother you.
> Now we are faced with developers and landowners building all around us and now I have to watch this Zanadu join with the urban sprawl of Orange City and Seminole county.Of course the crime rates will go up and we will more than likely have a major hommicide to put our city on the map too.We will take away from the prestine quality to a miniature megalopolis.This is what we have to look forward to now!!We are the only ones that can stop it.Which do we want,a beautiful city with a rural appeal or a shooting gallary and a crime rate that will spiral out of control.That is why I moved away from Port Orange and reside here.
> In the next couple of days,the Honorable Judge Hudson is going to make a decision on the EMPIRE CATTLE developement.If she rules against us,it is our duty to attend the next council meeting and tell the city council how we feel and we do not want this unchecked growth. The city council is in charge of our well being,not some developers who probably will not even live in these residential units nor would they want to!!They will just move on to the next victim and take advantage them also.IT IS UP TO YOU!!THE LINE "HAS" BEEN DRAWN IN THE SAND AND THE CITY IS BACKING US NOW!!But will they if the Judge rules against us.People of Debary,SHOW THEM YOU CARE!!!
>
> Mark Meister
>
> THE PEOPLE DO CARE AND WILL HAVE THE FINAL DECISION OF OUR WAY OF LIFE IN DEBARY!!

 

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NEW:

This morning when I opened up my newspapers(I receive the NEWS JOURNAL & SENTINAL),much to my chagrin,I saw the arcticle I've been dreading for the last few days.Bill Long is entering the race for county council district 5.
> What is he actually trying to accomplish?He has been in and out of the spotlight for 6 months and none of it was positive.He has 2
> litigations against him!He is having problems with alcohol and is also bipolar(this disease has many mood swings that can be extreme when in moments of stress).I am not comfortable with him being in office now but to reelect him is ridoculous!
> He has not represented us in the last 6 months in the ways this side of the county needs.He is constantly absent for one reason or another.Also he apparently has seeked help with a detox program in West Palm that he will not name for PRIVATE REASONS!He plans to go on a workshop-business trip wiyh Frank Bruno in the near future.When will he find the time to represent us?We have some tough problems in southwest Volusia county that need to be solved by someone who can commit their time for our community.WHEN WILL IT END!
> Bill Long entering the race has caused another problem.He will surely split the vote with Pat Northy and will probably neutrilize her and help John Masaircyzk in the end.(With friends like that ,who needs enemies Pat!)
> Another strange but true story is happening in the county council distict 1 race.A gentleman by the name of Jeff Davis is entering the race.He wants to have the monicker of "AXTAX"on the ballot.He may even litigate it since the election board will not allow it.This is a politician out of control!His ego scares me enough not to vote for him (thank god I do not vote in this one).
> As I read all of this weirdness,I have a suggestion.I would like to run for county council with the monicker of "none of the above".I just might win it!
>
> Mark"None of the Above"Meister
>
> The people will decide in September and November

 

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A response from Doll DiSantis to Nelson:

I personaly like the reply from Nelson, and Mark, I would like to add to this, it may not came out as will writen as Mark and Nelson.
>
> Nelson how do you get to I-4?, if Costca is ok to develop, in this area Steve Costca will also develop the additional properlys his family owns. That would add 2,400, Cars going to Orlando, and Deland. If you work now you have to add more travel time. Also if you think Winn Dixie is bad now you, know it will become a nihtmare to go shoping, just look at WalMarts parking area because of the over development in Deltona. Lets look at Deltona I have been in this area for over 27years and I remember what Deltona was, and what it has became thats one reason I came over to Debary, and you know how bad Deltona is now with the schools and crime, is that the kind of City you want to live in?.Back to DeBary with developments that the City Council is looking at not only Costa and Meadowlea, but Costa Town Center, With all this development it will increase the accidents, so now your rates will go up and now your insurance payment is higher, it will increase crime will increase and your homeowners insurance will go up, and then you taxes have to increase because of the addition police and fire. So is this affecting you and everyone else in the City What you think. Just take a ride into Deltona and Saxon Blvd. If you have been here that long you know what it was. Again the question, is this the CITY YOU WANT!!!? I KNOW I DON'T.

 

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NEW:

As a resident of "old DeBary", I have been loosely following the "Rumble in the Jungle - Meadowlea vs. Costa". I can see both sides - Costa, as a property owner simply wants to do what the rules say he can do with his property and the Meadowlea residents want to preserve what they have in their corner of the world.
> My question is how does this impact me and why should I care which way it goes?
> If the trailer park residents win and the land stays a cow pasture, nothing changes in my neck of the woods. If the developer wins and they build their 300+ homes, nothing changes in my neck of the woods.
>
> Perhaps I am oversimplifying this. Maybe I should see that if Costa wins, then my city Government gets a boatload of new revenue and I, as a citizen get more services/less taxes. I'll also have to wait in line longer at Winn Dixie and the post office.
> Are there deeper issues than this for those of us who do not live in the trailer park?
>
> Nelson

***********************************************

Mark Meister responded to Nelson's editorial:

> I would like to answer Nelson's editorial.I do like the "Rumble in the Jungle" describing our little soap opera that is going on.I also like to see new names appearing on the site whether you agree or disagree with the commentary.Please keep on writing and showing you care about Debary.
> The comment in your editorial about calling Meadowlea a "trailer park" was insulting to say the least.For one thing,a trailer is a movable structure on wheels.Our "manufactured homes" do not have wheels and are NOT mobile.In fact,if you would have an RV,THIS WOULD BE CONSIDERED A TRAILER! You may live in old Debary,our local officials consider most of this an "eye sore".Now we are on the same level!
> Now to answer your comments on how it would influence your part of town.Traffic would congregate and bottle neck more.Our schools,in which are already over crowded,would become even worse,population and quality of education.We would have to hire more emergency personel.{who do you think will pay for this?)The so called revenue will not amount to a "hill of beans" on fixing the many problems it would cause.
> My suggestion,for what its worth, would be to build the infrastructure and create more buisnesses so when the time for REASONABLE GROWTH comes,we will be ready.If you sit down and think the whole situation out,you would understand the consequences this developement would cause.
> Put yourself in our shoes also.They may be dry now,but will they after the next hurricane if this THING is built?
> Even though we disagree,keep on writing!Its good to see new names and ideas on the site.This is OUR CITY!This is our way of speaking and discussing what is right and wrong with it.Show up for the meetings.Than you will truly know what is going on.Hope to see you again Nelson.This is what it's all about.
>
> Mark Meister
>
> The people of Debary will have the final say.Its up to all of you!

******************************

Nelson Responds to Mark's response:
>
> I appreciate Mark's thoughtful comments. My apologies to anyone whom I insulted by referring to Meadowlea as a trailer park. I can remember when some of those homes were brought in there and they came in on the back of a truck i.e.: a "trailer". They were "parked" there (as opposed to built there) so you can perhaps understand my confusion.
> I would also like to set the record straight by clarifying that Mark and I DO NOT disagree.....yet. I am still examining the issues, the pro's and con's and, most importantly, the WIIFM (what's in it for me). Please be assured that I will be completely educated on this and do more research than the average bear before I decide on which side I will weigh in. And even then, I reserve the right to change my mind should circumstances change.
> I simply want to find out why, as a resident of Lake Marie Estates, I should care about which way the cow pasture goes.
>
> Regarding traffic: I emailed Norm offline to let him know that I have in one way or another, off and on been commuting between DeBary and Orlando since 1975. In that time, the drive went from being less than 30 minutes, door to door to now taking sometimes up to 90 minutes. I-4 is clogged with tens of thousands of cars. And guess what? Steve Costa did not put a single car there. Traffic will continue to get worse whether that parcel is developed or not. Those 400 homes will have very little incremental impact on my daily commute. So why should I care?
>
> Regarding Schools: I place the blame of our overcrowding and the fact that it may be a decade before another school is built in our neck of the woods on the Volusia County School Board. I am seriously pissed that my tax money is being funneled out of SW Volusia to someplace else. NEWS FLASH: DeBary Elementary will overcrowd with or without Costa's development. If you wish to gripe about this one, don't look at Costa, look toward the school board. With respect to the development of the cow pasture, if our schools are going to overcrowd anyway, why should I care?
>
> Flooding: Whether Meadowlea floods or not will not impact me one way or the other. I will share this with you, however: Lake Marie Estates has not had any development of any consequence in over 25 years. Yet, during the hurricanes, houses, yards and septic tanks got flooded. What happened? I'm not an engineer, meteorologist or any other kind of smart guy but it seems to me if there is a lot of water in a short amount of time, somebody's going to get flooded. How would that development change this for me and why should I care?
>
> Again, just as I have no vested interest in halting the development of that parcel, I also have no vested interest in seeing it developed. If the Meadowlea crowd could show me how stopping Costa from developing that property would benefit me I would be their most vocal supporter. Likewise, If Costa could show me that having it developed would benefit me even more, I would likely take his side. So far, I cannot see how this affects anyone other than the Meadowlea residents. The only way that two out of the three issues I discussed above will be fixed to my satisfaction would be that if everyone stopped breeding and everyone stopped moving to Florida. But we know that's not going to happen.
>
> So once again I ask, Why should I care?
>
> Nelson

 

Mark's response to Nelson's

While I sat reading Nelsons editorial,I see a common theme that disturbs me.The comment whats in it for me is a selfish attitude that is common in todays society.Unfortunately it also creates tunnel vision or even a blindness.
> History is filled with whats in it for me.World War II is a prime example .The Axis powers were taking over most of Europe and southeast Asia.We in the United States turned our backs and left history take its course.Slowly but surely, the world was being taken over until we woke up on a Sunday morning and found out Pearl Harbor was attacked by the Japanese.This "slap in the face" woke us up and we entered World War II.WHATS IN IT FOR US?Europe or Asia was not our problem,but all of the sudden,it was our problem!
> With this history lesson,lets corrolate what is going on with Debary and Volusia county.The Axis powers are the developersand the landowners are slowly taking over our all the land.We the citizens of Volusia county and Debary are represented as the United States.Our world is being taken over until we are "Pearl Harbored".Nelson,it is all cause and effect.A small insignificate situation could create a major problem for you.This might not matter now to you,but maybe it will down the road.
> In your regards to your answers to my points of view in my last editorial,why add blatently to our problems without attempting to correct them first?I do agree with the school board being the reason,but why cann't we slow down the growth and manage it?Why do we have to let these developers and landowners like Costa and Centex have "carte blanche"over the city and county?
> Read the papers and REALISE WHAT IS GOING ON!Whats in it for me is not the attitude to take.WHAT CAN WE DO TO MAKE THINGS BETTER IS THE GREATER QUESTION!If everyone took this attitude,excuse the pun,nothing constructive would happen.An example of this is the United States Congress.
> Whats in it for me?Lets restate the question.What selfish reasons can I do to make my life better and to hell with everyone else!
> I came here for apparently different reasons than you.I came here for the rural effect with the positioning between two larger cities.I like the fact that I can look at birds and trees instead of condominiums and giant structures.I think I speak for many of people in this beautiful city and this is our way of life.
>
> Mark Meister
>
> LET THE PEOPLE OF SOUTH WEST VOLUSIA COUNTY LIVE OUR WAY OF LIFE!

***************************************************************************

NEW:

"These are the best of times and these are the worst of times"to quote Charles Dickens.This has been one of the strangest weeks I can remember, living in southwestern Volusia county.Let me take you back in retrospect of this weird and contraversial time.
> >
> > Item One: The Council Meeting
> >
> > Here we are arguing 48 minutes on a half dead tree and whether to cut it down or replant since it is a historical tree.This was bizarre to say the least because the owners of the land are replanting trees already and were honest enough to take the matter up in front of the council.THESE POOR HONEST PEOPLE END UP PAYING FOR THE TREE PLUS OTHER FEES.Welcome to Debary folks !To bad your name was not Costa or you might have gotten away with just a slap on the wrist.
> >

> > Now for the bond referendum.Now this was a nice "double the money at the last minute" without discussing it with the Council.THIS IS MISUSE OF THE CITY MANAGERS DUTIES BY RAISING THE PRICE OF THE BOND FROM 10 MILLION TO 20 MILLION AND DISCUSSING IT WITH THE NEWSPAPERS!I do beleive it was an honest mistake,but will not sit well with the voters considering they WASTED 20 thousand dollars on a poll to agree with 10 MILLION DOLLARS!ARE YOU CONFUSED YET? UGH!

> > Norm Erickson,John Likakis,and Lenny Marks tried to bring this situation up and make it an agenda item.Mayor Coleman Squashed it immediately and kept them to three minutes.You cannot speak of something of this magnitude in three minutes. You hurt Maryann's feelings!Bad boys!

> > The council dropped the ball on this one and will have a tough time "selling it" in November.

> > Empire Cattle starring Steve Costas tried to lessen the buffers to the new city hall.He figured he could shoe horn more residential and commercial units on the land.COME ON STEVE,EVERYBODY CAN FIGURE THIS OUT!Be as smug as you may,you did not win many friends and influence people with the litigation with the city.Also, no Mark Watts sightings at the meeting.

> > That takes care of the city council meeting.But wait! theres more!
> >
> > The infamous gas leak on Barwick Road by FP&L.Emergency vehicles,a tv station,and Mayor Coleman appeared.Its strange I cannot find any public record of such incident.We at Meadowlea worry about such a thing happening and now they want to add 450 to 600 residential units to the confusion.This was a wake up call but nobody will know.Sweep it under the rug.
> >
> > The County Council Race

> > As of Wednesday,only one(John Masiarczyk)was the only one in the race.To use a phrase by Lenny Marks,SHAZAM!!Now there is four.Pat Northy flipped a coin and reentered.Sixma drops out because of personal reasons.And just when you thought things couldn't get any stranger,Bill Long is rumored to reenter this race.I do not know about you but my head is spinning and it isn't from the "imaginary gas fumes" from Saturday.
> >
> > Please, somebody,let me click my heals and return to the southwestern Volusia county I use to know.I miss it so much!I am tired of going down the yellowbrick road of this week.THERES NO PLACE LIKE HOME!THERES NO PLACE LIKE HOME!
> >
> > The people of Debary and south western Volusis county will have the final word.
> >
> > Mark Meister

NEW:

Tree
> I think that I shall never see,
> A poem as lovely as a tree.
> It took 48 minutes to make a decision,
> The answer came with much derision.
> The old tree stands so very tall,
> The question is which way will it fall.
> Patrick wanted to replace it anew,
> Danny knows that it wouldn't be cost efficient and true.
> George was stern and wanted the tree to stay,
> The rest of the council had a look of dismay.
> The owners were honest and did the right thing,
> The council decided to listen to the lady consulting.
> It doesn't matterthat they replaced more trees,
> All that matters is hassles and dollars and fees.
> Twenty million in flooding was not that important,
> But a tree that is rotten cannot be forgotten.
> I think that I will never see,
> More problems surrounding a rotten tree.
>
> Mark Meister

**************************************************************************

NEW:

As you may or may not know,we had a gas leak at the Debary FP&L plant along the St.Johns River.Emergency vehicles,tv stations, and Mayor Coleman were here until the problem was corrected.They had closed Barwick Road on the south end and never reported to Meadowlea on the River what was going on.I also find this interesting that no media reported the leak on any of its newscasts.With so many emergency vehicles and such,you would think some attention would have been appropriate.What if something would have happened and we would have to evacuate?In my opinion FP&L dropped the ball and did not want to have bad press.
> I also would like to bring up the factor of adding another couple of thousand people to a road system that could not cater to an emergency of this magnitude.Many of people could have been hurt if this was a serious emergency.This is a wake up call and a reason not to let this albatross of a developement have the density that Costa and Syntech want.Lets wake up and think this through before people do get hurt.
>
> Mark Meister
>
> The people of Debary will have the final say in November

*****************************************************************************

 

**********************************************************************

NEW:

At the council meeting ,I talked about love thy neighbor.We at Meadowlea on the River know it is inevitable that we are going to have a developement or project beside us.Our concern is exactly what are we going to get as a neighbor.I think we have our answer.
> Mr. Watts graciously invited representatives from Meadowlea.We had eight people with different backgrounds and experience.This also included me. We also invited Mr. Riceman ,our attorney ,to attend.Mr. Watts and two representatives from SYNTECH were there representing EMPIRE CATTLE.Mr. Costa did not deem it necessary to show up for this meeting which did not surprise us.
> They discused their plans and showed us what it would encompass around Meadowlea. We explained our reservations of density,traffic,chances of flooding and liability if people from the developement would cut into our property and get injured.
> Everything was going rather cival untill the subject of density came up.We suggested cutting off the eastern side and keep it as wet lands.We considerd it a good idea because it was going to be a culdasac and have no way out.There is no entrance onto Barwick Road.They did the calculations and came up with a a density of 350 units.One of the representatives for SYNTECH "threatened" us with the original figure of 600 units.Mr. Riceman countered with quality of life issues.At this point,the meeting was ended.
> Just like the council meetings,instead of arbitration and dialogue,we get threats.They are trying to run over us or be smug like Mr. Costa was at Wednesdays meeting.We have resolve and fortitude and WE WILL NOT BACK DOWN!I am also glad to see the city council not give in to his tricks and false bravado.He thinks he has the "bull by the horns".One sports mediphor is the game ain't over to the fat lady sings and I do not hear any arias yet.
> This is my suggestion. If EMPIRE CATTLE wins this review with The Honorable Judge Hudson,I recommend we disolve the county and city governments and revert back to a fuedal state where the landowners and developers make the rules and govern the people.This is whats going to happen IF THEY HAVE THEIR WAY!We will draw our line in the sand and hold our positions.You may consider us "trailer trash" but I would rather be that than a "slum lord".At least take care of your people better than you take care of your cattle and not let them roam all over our property.You put your pants on one leg at a time contrary to your beliefs.
>
> Mark Meister
>
>
> THE PEOPLE OF DEBARY AND MEADOWLEA WILL HAVE THE FINAL SAY IN NOVEMBER.

 

 

Mark Meister sent an email to Vice Mayor Fulton and then a follow up:

Councilman Fulton,

> I have written my piece on your ongoing situation with Councilman Long and frankly ,I am tired about hearing about it and want to get on with the reason you are in office.The reason is for the well being of our city of Debary.I want to allow you to explain to the good people of our city your position on the rezoning of EMPIRE CATTLE LAND encompassing Meadowlea on the River.I feel as one of your consituants,I deserve to have your point of view.I also do not understand that as soon as Costa threatens litigation,you are the one of two who points out we do not have a chance.Is that what you call REPRESENTING THE CITY? And what about the ever changing densities that make him sound as if he is NEGOTIATING with the city?
> I do have some questions about this and I would like to hear your point of view:
>
> 1.How is the city going to handle the over crowding of schools?Where are we going to FARM them out to? Doesn't it bother you where he wanted to DONATE land to develope a new school?
>
> 2.What is your solution for handling the traffic that this developement is going to manifast?What about the railroad and bottlenecking this is going to cause?Do you honestly think the alterations of Ft. Florida road as mentioned by Mr. Watts is actually going to handle this traffic?
>
> 3. How are we going to pay for the extra fire and police services this developement is going to accrue.How is this going to reflect in the response time?I am disabled and concerned.Please do not say impact fees.
>
> 4.What about the concerns Meadowlea have about flooding?Look at the prints, Meadowlea will be surrounded by retention ponds.
>
> 5.If you do allow this rezoning, is a plan in the works to keep Costa from expanding and DEVELOPING all the rest of the wet lands in this particular area?
>
> 6.What about the impact this is going to effect on the farside of Ft. Florida by Highbanks road and all the congestion we see already?
>
> 7.What is your vision for the city of Debary during your time in office and ten or twenty years down the road?
>
> These are just some of the questions I have. I welcome your response to debarypop.com so that the people know where you stand.This and the flooding will probably be this councils legacy.How do you want to be remembered when all of this is said and done.I have also emailed debarypop.com with this same email.I have informed some of my friends and neighbors I was going to do this. The response was it was a waste of my time.Please prove me wrong.
>
> Mark Meister
>
> Remember, the people will decide in November

******************************************

Councilman Fulton,

> Normally I would send you an email also but you proved to me and the constituants what you think of us.I sent you an email asking you for your stance on the EMPIRE CATTLE situation that concerns us all.Just as Marie Antionette said about the people of France"Let them eat cake" is in my opinion what you think of us.The statement should be EAT CROW!With this email I had given you seven questions with points to each and asked you to respond to them.These questions were to the point and would give us an idea, not only on EMPIRE CATTLE, but an over all outlook of the impacts of this rezoning and your vision of Debary now and down the road.The answer I received was ZERO,ZILCH,NADA. My email address was even available to you if you didn't feel like talking to the public.
> I know what your feelings are about debarypop.com but you are one of the reasons it exists.YOU SIT ON YOUR IVORY TOWER AND MAKE BELIEVE YOU CARE.HOWS THE WEATHER UP THERE? I believe it is just a forum to represent your ideas and to hell with us!It is looking more as if it is an ego trip rather than a representation.If I were you, I would be trying to win the people over instead of play the political shell game.Show the people you are concerned with issues instead of personal ploys.Be bigger than the problems that are surrounding you.

BE OUR REPRESENTATIVE INSTEAD OF A TWO BIT PART IN A TERRIBLE SOAP OPERA.

The choice is yours.Is it going to be EMPIRE CATTLE REZONING,hurricane season,and growth management or Fulton vs. Long 4;BATTLE AT THE BIG HOUSE.

> I still would like to have your reply sent to debarypop.com for everyone to read. Seven questions I sent you.Show the people where you stand.Is it on your own two feet or on your ivory tower.
>
>
> Mark Meister
>
> The people of Debary will be waiting for your reply.

 

 

*************************************************************

 

He Said, He Said

Before I even start,may I say I am not out to bash anybody or group of people.My own personal view is if you want to get married, you should be able to as long as you are two consenting adults.What you do with your personal lives is your business and nobody elses. When your personal business hits the news,than it becomes another matter,especially when you are elected public officials.This news of County Councilman Long and Debary Councilman Fulton debacle is hitting the airwaves like love bugs on our windshields this time of the year.The publicity our little town and westside of our county is getting, makes Orlando politics make sense.

THAT IS A SCARRY THOUGHT!

First the break up happens without too much fanfare.Next it's The Rumble At The Residence on New Years Eve in which Fulton scored a major victory.Than we have Fulton vs. Long 2 where long scores a victory but loses when Fulton calls the cops.Lets not forget the funeral home fire which according to the NEWS JOURNAL May 18 edition was intentially set.(this is not to place blame on anybody but does not set right with anyone).And to top it off,The CHEERS CHALLENGE In which Long supposedly SHOVED Fulton.I SAW THE VIDEO AND IN MY OPINION,YOU COULD ARREST AN ENTIRE EVENINGS PATRONAGE AT ANY BUSY BAR.Boo,hiss.This whole affair(pardon the pun) is as bad as a poor WORLD WRESTLING ENTERTAINMENT plot or a bad Danielle Steele love story.

How much more are we going to have to tolerate?I would rather listen to Mark Watts explain about the EMPIRE CATTLE develpement(thought I forgot about you)all evening long than to put up with this dribble!Besides, you two are making Debary and the rest of Volusia County look like a sideshow.GROW UP GENTLEMEN!START REPRESENTING OUR COUNTY AND CITY WITH THE HONOR IT DESERVES!We need solid ,commited leadership rather than a half-hearted circus show!

Mark Meister

The people in Debary and Volusia county will have the final word in November.

*******************************************************************

 

Here we go again! Everytime Chris Carson has an idea that makes good sense it gets shot down. Carson brought up the idea to have the Barwick property be used for recreational purposes and the rest of the council wants to turn it into a storage area. The council feels that its to far away from the center of town.Does this make one iota of sense? IF,EMPIRE CATTLE gets their way, wouldn't one think they would want to build a new community center or park to enhance the area.This could be one situation that would benefit Meadowlea and the proposed developement.Or do they think the new developement is not going to live up to everybodies standards? If anybody on this council would know about parks and recreations it would be Carson.He works for parks and recreation in Winter Springs.This is just another example of council and its indecisiveness. This is not a well oiled machine but a collection of parts that just do not fit. Everybody has a different agenda.
> Another example was the naming of Patrick Fulton as Vice-Mayor. In most meetings you use Roberts Rules,but in this case we changed the rules in mid stream without any signifigant reason. Carson was also throwing his name in the hat but was voted down.It seems the rest of the council has some hidden agenda or something against him. He says very little and speaks volumes by doing his homework and knowing the issues. Carson was congenial and stated that Patrick would do a good job.
> These are just two examples of several I've seen at council meetings.Some are subtle and some are not.I just wished we would see more cohesiveness and decisiveness.If I were Carson ,I would watch my back. Julius Caeser didn't and look what happened.
>
> Mark Meister
>
> The people of Debary WILL decide in November.

******************************************************************

Wikipedia says hypocrisy is a term that is commonly used in a way which should be more specifically termed a double standard, bias, or inconsistency. I've been following your battle with Costa for a while now and I believe you are being hypocritical. Meadowlea is a very dense are with absolulely no engineering to compensate for flood zone or storm water. Yet, you cast stones at Costa who wants to develop HIS property at a much lower density than yours with engineering to handle storm water and flood zone issues. How can you sit there with a straight face and call this fair. You have yours but no one else can? I think you need to step back and look at this from a different perspective because you are being very hypocritical.

Ben Walters

 

Response from Mark Meister:

Thank you Ben for responding to the editorials. I like to see other opinions and points of view.Dialog is what this is all about. We need more people standing up for our first amendment rights.
> I do not feel we are being hypacritical or biased.Also bias can be favorable or unfavorable depending on YOUR point of view.Our principals lie in the effect that Costa's developement is going to be raised substantualy higher than our property.Their storm drainage systems does work for every day rains and some small flooding. You bring in a storm like Francis with continual multiple days of torrential rains, his retention ponds will over flow and unfortunately the run off will sweep through our property and will cause major flooding.Even with the rains of a heavy daily thunderstorms, we are going to see this effect even more than now.I am happy to say even being surrounded by wet lands and flood plains,we survived the 2004 hurricanes very well.A lot better than some some other areas with the storm systems that you talk about.

> You claim that we are being hypocritical and inconsistant with our point of view.The inconsistancy has been with the Costa's camp with their ever changing density from higher to lower to higher.That does not even include the over crowding of schools and their substandard ideas of handling the roads as well as the pomd OWNED by Florida Power and Light.
> You may consider us as hypacritical,I consider his developement a Trojan Horse.We all know what happened in that particular moment in history.

> You tell us to step back and look at this from a different point of view.The problem is we may be standing in the St. John's river if this developement passes through with the zoning change.If this is bias ,than call me biased.I am standing up for the dry land around me.
>
>
> Mark Meister
>
> THE PEOPLE WILL STATE THEIR OPINION IN NOVEMBER.

**********************************************************************

 

People of Debary,
> I was sitting down at my computer and was reading the editorials on this website. One thing I noticed was only FOUR CITIZENS OF DEBARY WRITE EDITORIALS AND TWO ARE FROM MEADOWLEA!WHERE IN THE WORLD IS EVERYBODY ELSE? WHERE ARE ALL THE PEOPLE THAT SHOW UP FOR CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS?Most people have subscribed to newspapers. WHERE ARE THE EDITORIALS? Are we so passive that we let EMPIRE CATTLE and other so called "developers" take over our land and our way of life? We can attend council meetings; bitch ,harp and complain there and not let the rest of Volusia County know whats going on. We are getting railroaded and not doing a thing about it.
> Next question. What are the reasons:
> 1.Are we afraid of EMPIRE CATTLE,Costas, and his merrymen?
> This isn't BONANZA, and the men in black hats aren't going to shoot us.
> 2.Are we becoming passive and accepting the idea that this is the way its going to be? I hope not for our sakes.
> 3.Are we just too lazy and want to sit around the house eatng CHEETOS and watching tv, oblivious to the urban sprawl and destruction of our enviroment?
> 4.The worst scenario; we just do not care.IF THIS IS THE CASE, I DO NOT WANT TO GO DOWN WITH YOUR SINKING SHIP!
> We have our first amendment rights.Lets use them. Lets fight back.This is our futures and our childrens futures. They will ultimately pay the price.Lets start writring editorials in our local newspapers and let everyone know what is going on here.This is not the only place this is happening.Lets fight back in numbers.Contact your city councilmen and explain to them we are not happy.They hate the fact that they could be losing votes.Be more active in your local communities and show support for each other.Help your neighbors as much as you can.Whether its urban sprawl,eminent domain,
> or dirty drinking water.BE THERE FOR THEM!
> If we are going to win this battle with EMPIRE CATTLE,it has to be more than Meadowlea and outlying communities.THIS CONCERNS US ALL.From Glen Abbey,Debary Plantations,and all citizens in this beautiful city.WE ALL WILL PAY THE PRICE!
>
>
> Mark Meister
>
> THE PEOPLE OF DEBARY WILL HAVE THE FINAL WORD IN NOVEMBER

******************************************************************

 

I am not a fan of new television shows. I have a hard time watching sitcoms that are not funny or Law and Order reruns and I definitely hate tv realitity shows. I do find one show in particular interesting: DEAL OR NO DEAL is a show that most people are watching these days. The show has a tendency to show how greedy people can be without using common sense and losing thousands of dollars by making bad choices.

My idea is this,lets put Debarys favorite nighttime soap opera on this show.That "soap" would be [drum roll please}EMPIRE CATTLE vs. the city council of Debary.Now that is good television!

Now the contesetants:
Steve Costas:
1. One of the biggest landowners in Debary.
2. Owns EMPIRE CATTLE and cannot keep the integrity of his fence in repair so Meadowlea gets an extra special pastoral surprise.
3. Wants to rezone his property to include 450 to 600 SINGLE FAMILY UNITS.Refer to no. 2.
4.Does not care about the wellbeing or wishes of the people around him including FLORIDA POWER AND LIGHT.
DEAL OR NO DEAL? Easy choice!

Mark Watts:
1.Our favorite "star" that has nothing to lose.
2.He goes on ,abnausium about this project; hoping we will get exhausted with his longwinded and contridicting fillibusters.
3.Will get paid no matter what the decision.{or year].
DEAL OR NO DEAL? yeah, right!

Patrick Fulton:
1.One of the most vocal councilman this side of Orange County.
2.Pretends to be strong in his decisions "for the people",but unexplicatably backs down with EMPIRE CATTLES threat of litigation.
3. Meets with EMPIRE CATTLES REPRESENTATIVES in meetings that are not in public knowledge until it is leaked out. The fair and ethical way of handling this would be what the Mayor did and listen to the people of MEADOWLEA also.
DEAL OR NO DEAL? interesting to say the least!

The City Council of Debary:

1.Has a hard time making decisions that are important in whole.Example:20 million dolllars to olve the flooding problems now or wait 17 years and let the moneys we have now to solve it.We can fly to the planet Pluto twice in that time!
2.Danny Tillis,Chris Carson,and Mayor Coleman:I think these individuals are concerned about us ,but do not have a strategy to compete with contestants no.1 &no.2 .> 3.Jack Lenzan:Middle of the road and is most concerned about money and impending lawsuits.
DEAL OR NO DEAL ? its a coin toss!

The People of Debary:
1.Comes in droves to argue against this developement. I never heard ONE PERSON argue FOR this developement other than contestants no.1 &no.2!
2.We are seeing our way of life and dreams in Debary floating down the stream , just like our belongings in Meadowlea after this developement is made. That is our reason Jack!
3.No new schools and congestion on our roads.
4.Growth will bring the element of crime to our city.
DEAL OR NO DEAL? RAW DEAL!

I know this is an absurd and time consuming way to bring out my ideas and opinions,but isn't EMPIRE CATTLE'S strategy time consuming and absurd too? Lets fix the problems that are here now instead of adding to them.City councilmen of Debary,I pose this question:

DEAL OR NO DEAL?

Mark Meister

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As a homeowner in Debary, also a resident of Meadowlea on the River, I am to the point of listening to some of these ridiculous remarks that have been made in the newspaper. The Empire Cattle first asked for 600 homes which they knew would never be granted because the density is far too large for that amount, which Councilman Fulton has stated several times. Now they are looking at putting in 450 homes in which everyone who was at that Council meeting knew it was a bait and switch, ask for a ridiculous number as the 600 was and the Councilman knew that so lets be the good guys and go down to 450 which also is too many homes for the density. If the people in the City of Debary can see this, it amazes me that Councilman Fulton could not see this. In January 2003 Empire Cattle tried to bring in 450 homes again and the board turned him down unanimously. Empire Cattle had the same attorney, Mr Watts, and I am under the understanding that he has been the family lawyer for some time. Now when we have some Council members leaning to accept that high density, Mr. Watts brings a lawsuit to the city of Debary. Why didn't he bring this law suit in 2003. Nothing has changed except for new council members presently on the board. This is a closed meeting and by law they have a right to do this, but that in itself, I find quite interesting.

 

. A corporation out of Tallahassee called TPL has gone to the city and offered to go into negotiations with Empire Cattle to buy all of this property for conservational use only. In return the City and the County would then repay TPL either by grants or loans in which they would help the city/county to achieve. The City Manager's response in the newspaper was "the city has no money to buy this land", but yet the city can afford to pay for additional pumping and flooding of areas. Meadowlea on the River is concerned with the high volume of traffic and flooding, the question is not if we will flood but when we will flood. Can the city afford 253 lawsuits then? As in past, the city has showed its poor judgment allowing developers to develope other properties. And then the City says it has no money because it spent millions on pumping water out of flood areas and buying out homes so they could build retention ponds.

 

The second part of Empire Cattle's petition, if this is approved, will put additional homes further up on Ft. Flordia Road, adding additional traffic. The comprehensive plan states it must meet the safety, health, traffic and well being of the area. If anyone has sat at Ft. Florida, Barwick and Highbank waiting for a freight train to go past which takes 18 to 20 minutes, back that up with an additional 1,000 cars, and we will have chaos. If an emergency vehicle needs to get through, someone needs to tell me how it will fly over all of that traffic. Even without a freight train, it will be impossible with the additional cars to get through. Doesn't that constitute safety, well being for the area? At the last City Council Meeting, FPL expressed their concerns about the dam and the additional traffic. Has anyone looked into that? If not, why not? There are many issues on this project that have not been addressed.

 

The second most irritating comment that I have read is Mr. Fulton saying the utility company will send out letters cutting off Meadowlea's water supply. The news reporters have talked to the utility company , Volusia County, and they have no intentions of sending out any letters or cutting off our water supply. Where did Mr. Fulton get this information from? He has also stated that whether we like it or not we cannot keep the developers from developing the property. As reasonable individuals which we are, we know that. We just want them to keep to the comp plan one house every five acres which Mr. Fulton fails to mention all of the time. WHY?

 

We also understand that the Citizens of Debary are against this project. Tonight the Council is having the vote whether to back down or stand up for the citizens of Debary.

Doll Desantis

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The new thing now is Steve Costca wants to remove all the townhouses and build 438 homes. Patrick said that the water would be turned off but that is a lie. The three Council Members Danny, Patrick, and Jack, have been meeting with the Costca family and their lawer. (*Update: In the interest of fairness Councilman Lenzen has told POP that he has NOT been in conversations with the Costa family and their lawyer.) The second joke is that they are afraid that the City will be SUED; THATS ANOTHER LIE; THE CITY lawyer told them that they can't sue if Costca doesn't fit into the Comp Plan, Safety, Health, etc,.

I know we we'll sue the City if we get flooded. There is no way that he can redirect the water; it will run though Meadowlea. The City is trying to force us to take this offer from Costca, Why is Steve Costca so important?,. Read the article in the Beacon where Patrick said that the Utility Company was going to send out letters; another lie.

We need all the people in DeBary to show up at the April Meeting and stop these few man from running the Council.

THANK YOU FOR THIS WEB PAGE

Sincerly,

Gerturde DeSantis (Doll)
Meadowlea on the River

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After reading the bulletin/letter/press release re: the condo proposal for Meadowlea area, and the fact that only 2 forms of egress exist, what does the Fire Dept./Police Dept./ALS Squad do now if a train is either blocking the egress by being stopped or travelling slow???.
> I say that because there was no mention of an Emergency building on the Meadowlea side of the tracks. What is the plan for existing Meadowlea with respect to Emergencies ? If a system is in place, that's great and my concerns are dispelled, if not these concerns need to be addressed
>
> Thank You....(Retired Firefighter --30 yrs.)

Jack Bering

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As a homeowner and taxpaper in the city of Debary I applaud your efforts in establishing this site. I however, have to agree with Mr Finn, there is no room for rebuttal...it is the opinion of a few being forced down the throats of many.

In reading over the editorials of the "Institute" it seems to me that they want to tell the citizens of Debary what is wrong with everything, yet they have no answer or even an inkling of a solution on how to fix what in their opinions is wrong.

I suggest that if the 3 of you think you can right the wrongs...run for office...or is their some "Dirty Laundry" you don't wanr aired in public?

I will be chaecking this site out daily!

James R. Knox

 

My response to Mr. Knox's email:

 

In re-reading your email I just wanted to say a couple of things.
>
> You can disagree with anything we write and send us an editorial. We'll
> post it asap; What we say is just our opinion and while some will
> agree not everyone will; hopefully those that disagree with us will
> write in and a discussion will be had.
>
> It is our website, we started it and we have a point of view. We have
> not engaged in personal attacks.
>
> The POP Editorials have our individual names on it so anonymity is not
> being engaged. Everything on the front page of the website is basic
> information either from city hall or newspapers.
>
> As for solutions we favor a proactive stance on flooding instead of
> spening a million dollars on a Partnership Center; we suggest the members read
> Robert's Rules of Order to find out how to run a meeting; we suggest
> they make sure permits are on hand before trees are cut down; and so
> on. I think often we offer an alternative to a problem or just
> question why they are doing certain things. In addition, check out the
> Hall of Fame for kudos for good works. When they do something good we
> pat them on the back, but if they do something wrong we won't.
>
> Running for office presumes that THEY are the bosses and WE are the
> workers; it is my point of view that the opposite is true; given that,
> I wouldn't want to give up my power by taking office; and too many who
> run assume power that isn't really theirs.
>
> Thanks for checking the website and hope you are at the Wednesday night
> meeting.
>
> Norm Erickson

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