BY MARK J. CRAWFORD [email protected] Harlee Hutchinson, introduced as the top-ranked candidate at last Thursday’s Bradford County Commission meeting, told commissioners she would bring nonprofit event expertise, community partnerships and a focus on youth agriculture programs to the county’s fairgrounds. Hutchinson, director of events for the Ronald McDonald House in Gainesville and a Lake Butler … Read more
BY MARK J. CRAWFORD [email protected] The backlash to the approval of a new fire assessment fee has continued through Bradford County’s budget approval process, with calls for replacing commissioners and a state investigation into county spending. While they cannot prevent hurt feelings, commissioners are speaking out about misinformation presented in recent meetings and online. Commissioner … Read more
BY MARK J. CRAWFORD [email protected] If Florida legislators in their upcoming session propose a constitutional amendment that allows voters to cut or get rid of their property taxes, most seem to agree those taxes will disappear. Commissioner Chris Dougherty thanked Rep. Chuck Brannan for appearing at the Sept. 25 commission meeting to discuss state funding … Read more
BY MARK J. CRAWFORD [email protected] Engineers for Starke have been developing funding strategies for major capital improvement projects, with particular focus at a recent meeting given to drinking water projects. Justin de Mello, a vice president and professional engineer for Woodward and Curran, presented a Drinking Water Financial Improvement Plan for the commission to consider. … Read more
BY MARK J. CRAWFORD [email protected] Scott Roberts’ departure from the Starke City Commission was marked by heartfelt recognition and reflection last week. Mayor Andy Redding presented Roberts with a plaque in appreciation of his four years of outstanding service, highlighting his wisdom, professionalism, and steady composure, and noting that he would be missed “I admire … Read more
BY MARK J. CRAWFORD [email protected] A day before she was to be sworn in as Starke’s new city clerk, Chrissy Thompson was still fighting for the full power she says the city charter provides her position. According to Thompson, the city — in its recent adoption of its city manager ordinance — had placed her … Read more
Election qualifying opens BY MELISSA PYLE Special to the Telegraph Lawtey City Council amended employee benefits this month and set new base salaries for two offices open for election this year. Starting salary for the city clerk’s position was approved at $35,000, while base pay for police chief going forward will be $40,000. These positions … Read more
BY MARK J. CRAWFORD [email protected] Engineers for Starke have been developing funding strategies for major capital improvement projects, with particular focus at a recent meeting given to drinking water projects. Justin de Mello, a vice president and professional engineer for Woodward and Curran, presented a Drinking Water Financial Improvement Plan for the commission to consider. … Read more
Rashay Miller-Hampton was named Bradford County’s Athlete of the Year at the Special Olympics Florida Championships Gala on Sept. 20 in Orlando at the Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World Resort. He was accompanied by his sister, Katina Hampton, and they enjoyed a lovely dinner and dance. Afterwards they were accommodated with a night’s … Read more
