Thank you to everyone who came out on Saturday morning with very short notice, to voice your opinion. Despite the fact that the vast majority of the room opposed the BOCC agreeing to the settlement as it stood (just three people supported this agreement, two from CARE FL and one other person), the BOCC voted 4-1 to approve the settlement with Comm. Heard dissenting. The BOCC followed the strong urging to agree to the settlement under the guidance of Steve Ryan, attorney for CARE FL and Martin County. County staff concurred with Steve Ryan.
The settlement was a weighty decision for the Commission, and I believe many people would support a settlement but did not agree with all of the terms and conditions. Brightline told our Commission there is no room for negotiating the terms so unfortunately, our Commissioners allowed a corporation to buy their silence. Our BOCC was in a tight spot; I understand that, but I can never support a settlement that silenced the very people we vote in to represent our voice and protect our health, safety, welfare, and economics of our community.
Stay tuned for your chance to join me and have your voice heard once again. While our Commissioners and CARE FL counterparts have surrendered the fight, FNAA was the first to oppose, and we will not be bought, silenced, or go quietly in the night!
KC Ingram Mullen, FNAA
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
― Margaret Mead
Follow this link to view the settlement.
A little more on the new partner, Richard Branson/Virgin Trains.
Sir Richard Branson defends government bailout of Virgin East Coast which could cost taxpayers tens of millions of pounds