By ELIZABETH SINCLAIR
DeFuniak Springs–Councilman Mac Carpenter was on the agenda of the DeFuniak Springs City Council’s July 25 meeting to discuss the city’s Economic Development Committee (EDC). At the council’s July 7 meeting he had commented on an incident that had occurred at the EDC’s July 7 special meeting. The comments were not specific, but related to an EDC member’s behavior and outburst toward a person attending that meeting. On July 25, Carpenter called the EDC dysfunctional and made a motion to dismiss the committee. The motion was seconded by Councilwoman Janie Griffith.
Discussion of the problem began with Griffith saying “We need an EDC. Maybe we just need a realignment.”
Mayor Bob Campbell brought up the EDC chair’s temperament, calling it troublesome, but that it was up to the committee to change the chair.
Vice-chair of the EDC Rebecca King told the council she had seen the matter on the agenda and, as to any problem didn’t know what to do.
Carpenter withdrew his motion for dissolving the EDC followed by Griffith withdrawing hers.
At no time in the discussion, focused on the EDC Chair, was the Chair mentioned by his name, Mac Work. In a phone request asking for a response, Work said there were only two people (on the council) unhappy with him. That was his only comment.
The council also voted through Resolution 2016-06 to participate in an agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to construct a 10- unit T hangar at the city’s airport. FDOT will be the provider of the $500,000 amount. The city will provide 20 percent – $215,000. The project will include underground utilities and road realignment.
A tentative millage of .5 was approved. Interim City Manager Tillman Mears stating that it’s always easier to step back. “The current millage rate is 4.5. Sept. 19 was chosen as the first public hearing date.