Rick Patrick
rick@greenepublishing.com
On Tuesday, Nov. 9, local state legislators and their representatives took the time to hear questions and concerns of local government officials, as well as local citizens, during their annual legislative delegation meeting. On hand was State Senator Loranne Ausley. Sen Ausley represents Senate District Three, which encompasses all of Madison County. State Representative Jason Shoaf was unable to attend, due to a scheduling conflict. However, members of Rep. Shoaf's staff were on hand to relay concerns of local citizens to Rep. Shoaf.
Several local Constitutional Officers and other local governmental officials took the opportunity to speak to Sen. Ausley about a number of topics. County Commission Chair Ronnie Moore spoke about the possibility of opening rail travel once again in Madison. At one time, Amtrak made stops in Madison for those travelers going west toward Pensacola or east toward Jacksonville. Commissioner Moore also spoke on road projects and the need for greater broadband access for rural areas such as Madison.
Madison County Sheriff David Harper also spoke to Sen. Ausley. He repeated his request to have first responder status given to telecommunications officers (dispatchers). According to Sheriff Harper, this designation would allow for much-needed benefits, such as counseling to be made available for dispatchers. Sheriff Harper stated that other states have already given such status to dispatchers, “but on this particular issue, the State of Florida has fallen behind.”
Superintendent of Schools Shirley Joseph spoke about the need to have relief dollars made available to school support personnel, as well as teachers. Supt. Joseph also spoke on unfunded mandates, which require local entities to perform certain tasks and services, but funding to do so is not provided. “We don't need any unfunded mandates,” said Supt Joseph. This same sentiment was echoed by several officials.
Greenville Town Manager Lee Jones joined the meeting online and spoke about the proposed improvements in the western Madison County town. Jones spoke about improving accessibility for senior citizens with the new grocery store which is being constructed. Jones also spoke on the need for more affordable housing.
Several local citizens also shared their concerns with Sen. Ausley, including Betty Johnson. Johnson expressed concern over the proposed development of US Hwy 221 and the possible negative effect it could have on the Hickstown archeological sites. According to Johnson, these sites date back several thousand years and much more exploration can be done in the area. “There's no real need to develop 221,” said Johnson. “There are [at least] three mission sites located within Hickstown.”
Another citizen, Mack Primm, began his statements with a complaint about “thieving scam phone calls.” Primm stated that upwards of $80 billion had been taken in theft, primarily from senior citizens, due to scam phone calls. Primm called for more action from the Public Service Commission to address the problem. Primm also questioned the delays in opening the proposed Senior Center in Greenville. The center received a Certificate of Occupancy months ago, yet the doors remain closed.
Jill Spicer, founder of “Lost and Found Pets of Madison County” spoke about the prevalence of animal cruelty within Madison County. She said she did not want more animal cruelty laws passed, but she did request that the current laws be enforced at a greater level.
The upcoming 2022 legislative session begins earlier than it has in the past. The legislative session begins on Tuesday, Jan. 11 and will continue until Friday, March 11.