Page 1 of 1 PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMISSION ON ETHICS Background This matter came to the attention of Commission on Ethics staff via a sworn complaint filed by Bart Novak (Complainant), a resident of the Village of Wellington (the Village). The complaint alleges that Dean Turney (Respondent) is conducting lobbying activities within the Village; however he has not registered as a lobbyist pursuant to the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance (the Ordinance). Attached to the complaint were copies of screen shots from the Respondent’s Facebook page with the following comment, “It’s rewarding to have a client (Mark Bellisimo/Equestrian Sports Productions)”. The initial inquiry into the allegations revealed that Respondent was not registered in the Central Lobbyist Registration System, and that on at least one occasion, may have engaged in lobbying activities after June 12, 2012. Investigative information The investigation revealed that Respondent is a contract employee hired by Equestrian Sports Productions (ESP) to perform community and public relations. Documentary evidence revealed that ESP is the owner of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wellington Equestrian Partners, LLC (WEP). A search of the Florida Department of State website (www.sunbiz.org ), listed Mark Bellisimo as the Registered Agent/Managing Member for ESP. The investigation also revealed that Respondent is not registered as a lobbyist for Wellington Equestrian Partners, LLC, or any other holdings of Mark Bellissimo. A review the Central Lobbyist Registration Site revealed that Respondent is a registered lobbyist for two separate principals, the first being Jack Cosica, whose principal address is listed as 631 US 1, #304, North Palm Beach, FL 33408, and the second is listed as Ranch Colony HOA-Ted Weise, whose principal address is listed as C/O Mmi of the Pbchs Inc. 1201 US 1, Ste. 330, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. In both cases, Respondent is registered as a lobbyist only for Palm Beach County, not the Village. In fact there is no registration on file for WEP, ESP, or any other holdings of Mark Bellissimo, and Respondent is not registered as a lobbyist for the Village for any principal. Witness testimony and documentary evidence revealed on December 18, 2012, Respondent met with Village Mayor Robert Margolis and Village Manager Paul Schofield in a meeting described by Respondent as a “goodwill” meeting. According to testimony provided by Mayor Margolis and Manager Schofield, Respondent sought to gain their goodwill with regard to hosting the Palm Beach County League of cities meeting at PBIEC. The investigation also revealed that during the meeting Respondent also discussed and sought the goodwill of Margolis and Schofield regarding the stipulation agreement between ESP and the Village of Wellington. EXECUTIVE Summary To: Megan Rogers, Interim Executive Director From: James A. Poag, Investigator Re: C13-004 – Dean Turney (Lobbyist Registration Ordinance)
Transcript
Page 1 of 1
PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMISSION ON ETHICS
Background
This matter came to the attention of Commission on Ethics staff via a sworn complaint filed by Bart Novak (Complainant), a resident of the Village of Wellington (the Village). The complaint alleges that Dean Turney (Respondent) is conducting lobbying activities within the Village; however he has not registered as a lobbyist pursuant to the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance (the Ordinance). Attached to the complaint were copies of screen shots from the Respondent’s Facebook page with the following comment, “It’s rewarding to have a client (Mark Bellisimo/Equestrian Sports Productions)”. The initial inquiry into the allegations revealed that Respondent was not registered in the Central Lobbyist Registration System, and that on at least one occasion, may have engaged in lobbying activities after June 12, 2012.
Investigative information
The investigation revealed that Respondent is a contract employee hired by Equestrian Sports Productions (ESP) to perform community and public relations. Documentary evidence revealed that ESP is the owner of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wellington Equestrian Partners, LLC (WEP). A search of the Florida Department of State website (www.sunbiz.org), listed Mark Bellisimo as the Registered Agent/Managing Member for ESP. The investigation also revealed that Respondent is not registered as a lobbyist for Wellington Equestrian Partners, LLC, or any other holdings of Mark Bellissimo. A review the Central Lobbyist Registration Site revealed that Respondent is a registered lobbyist for two separate principals, the first being Jack Cosica, whose principal address is listed as 631 US 1, #304, North Palm Beach, FL 33408, and the second is listed as Ranch Colony HOA-Ted Weise, whose principal address is listed as C/O Mmi of the Pbchs Inc. 1201 US 1, Ste. 330, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. In both cases, Respondent is registered as a lobbyist only for Palm Beach County, not the Village. In fact there is no registration on file for WEP, ESP, or any other holdings of Mark Bellissimo, and Respondent is not registered as a lobbyist for the Village for any principal. Witness testimony and documentary evidence revealed on December 18, 2012, Respondent met with Village Mayor Robert Margolis and Village Manager Paul Schofield in a meeting described by Respondent as a “goodwill” meeting. According to testimony provided by Mayor Margolis and Manager Schofield, Respondent sought to gain their goodwill with regard to hosting the Palm Beach County League of cities meeting at PBIEC. The investigation also revealed that during the meeting Respondent also discussed and sought the goodwill of Margolis and Schofield regarding the stipulation agreement between ESP and the Village of Wellington.
EXECUTIVE Summary
To: Megan Rogers, Interim Executive Director
From: James A. Poag, Investigator
Re: C13-004 – Dean Turney (Lobbyist Registration Ordinance)
PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMISSION ON ETHICS 2633 Vista Parkway, West Palm Beach, Florida 33411
Hotline: 877-766-5920 or 561-233-0724
COMPLAINT FORM
1. Complainant (Person bringing Complaint) Add pages, if necessary. Please list all information where you would like to be contacted. Our preference is email.
Name: Bart Novack E-Mail •••• ._ _______ _
Address: 15670 Cedar Grove Lane
City: Wellington,Fiorida Zip : 33414 -----------
Home#: Work#: Cell#: ~5~61!Ji!II!!~L ___ _
2. Respondent (Person against whom complaint is made) Add pages, if necessary. Please provide as much information as possible. Name: Dean Turney E-Mail equestrianlife.com-/constantcontract.com
Address : 319 Clematis St. ste.441
City: West Palm Beach,Fiorida Zip: 33401
Home#: Work#: 561-833-5262 Cel l #:
Title/Office Held or Sought: Lobbyist for Equestrian Sport Prodctions-Mark Bellissimo Dean is also using Wei linton address
3. IF KNOWN, CHECK THE BOX OR BOXES THAT APPLY D Allegation is against person in D Allegation is about County:
County/Municipal Government Whistleblower Retaliation
4. STATEMENT OF FACTS BASED ON YOUR PERSONAL KNOWLEDGE In a separate attachment, please describe in detail the facts and actions that are the basis of your complaint, including the dates when the actions occurred. Also attach any relevant documents as well as names and contact information of persons who may be witnesses to the actions. If known, indicate the section of the ordinance you believe is being violated. For further instructions, see page 2 of this form .
5. OATH
I, the person bringing this complaint, do depose on oath or affirmation and say that the facts set forth in the foregoing complaint and attachments
__.,.'1'1't-'7..........,=· t, to the best of my knowledge d
m•'"~l''''•, JOANNE T DEE
• f ~\ Notary Public • State of Flotlda i• •! My Comm. Explrll Dec 1, 2013
• \~JJO ~i Commission # DD 943421 • '''1••9f.f,~···'' Bondtd Through National Notary Alln.
STATE OF FL~DA {l..__. ,, COUNTY OF l'>L.-H ~
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Sworn to (or affirn:Jd) and subscribed before me this _3_Q_ day ofJ,..t-Jv~ , 20 1~ , by ry:&er M N t)v,...f.;l_
(Name of Person Making Statement)
who is personallY, known to me ____ or produced
identification _!__. Type of identification produced: (n L t---'1 ~ 0 07 '? -5 ~ ;}-9 (::, b
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(Pr in t, Type, or Stamp Commissioned Name ofNotary Publi c)
Aug 10 11 01:16p In~ Novack
Great event at a great venue for a great cause.
It's rewarding to have a client (Mark Bellissimo/Equestrian Sport Productions) that contributes to the community with charitable events like this.
I understand tables are sold out for the Mara-Lago event but plan on attending the Great Charity Challenge in Wellington the evening of January 26.
Mark Bellissimo and Donald Trump Announce The First Annual ...
myemail.constantcontact.com
eLl No likes vP.t.
516-887-9889 p.2
Aug 10 11 01:16p In~ Novack
Lobbyist - Urban Economist, Equestrian
Consultant. Mef'!ber: - Palr:l Beach County Tourist Development
Council -South Florida Fair Board Member - West Pa:m Beach Special Events Committee -West Palm Beach Charter Review Committee
Enjoy the Ocean (fishing & boating). Backgammon, Polo, Show Jumping. Politics, Music, Reading.
Contact·
516-887-9889 p.3
516-887-9889 p. 1
Work
• Equestrian Sport P;od'-Jcticns
Education
Living
: .. ;i
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Aug 10 11 01:19p In~ Novack
Dean Turney, West Palm Beach FL 33401
Follow this Merchant
Claim Your Business
Dean Turney
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About Dean Turney
i\ ··k1 ;:< q ln1 'l <Y'"' ~-~--~_____:-~~-~~~-~ Searching for dean turney?
Equestrian Life is an online community for horse people. VVe bring log8ttier horse peopte across a!! di:3ciplines. breeds and sports. VVe in•iile you to connect V:li~h o1her.s '-'"he iove horses a~. much as you do.
DEAN TURNEY
AEmUTME
~ B/\SIC INFORMATION
VIEW rt.Y PROFILE AS:
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516-887-9889
SEARCH
CONTEST SHOP Q &I\
http:/ /wwvv.equestrianlife.cOin/profile/1 000008279800/Dean _ Tu ...
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1/25/2013
Aug 10 11 01:19p In~ Novack 516-887-9889 p.4
Dean Turney, Executive Director, Wellington Equestrian All ian... Page 2 of 7
Share this profile on Facebook. Linlc to this profile on Linkedin. Tweet this profile on Twitter. E1nail a link to this profile. See other services through which you can share this profile. This profile \Vas last updated on 12/1611 0 and contains information from public web pages and contributions from the Zoon1lnfo
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Background
Employment History
• President
Wellington Equestrian Alliance
Dean Turney
Executive Director
Local Address: West Palm Beach. Florida, United States Wellington Equestrian Alliance
An1ong: tht;;_~peak_GXS at 'fues~j_gy~_111eetin_g~ www.phelpsmediagroup.com, 16 Dec 2010 J:cachedl Among the speakers at Tuesday's meeting was Dean Tumey, Executive Director of the Wellington Equestrian Alliance. Archive f__,ead News Februarv 27., 2004 \VWW.thecrier.com, 27 Feb 2004 reached! During public comment, Wellington Equestrian Alliance President Dean Turney said that he \:Vas concerned about the procedure and said he felt frustrated that he and other equestrians were not kept up to date on the change.He said that he hadn't had a chance to review what was before them and was concerned with the potential for future litigation related to the construction of the planned Ma11 Bypass Road and other projects designed to keep traffic out of the Equestrian Preserve Area. "Given the history of this location near Pierson Road, and all the parties involved in settling that situation, to have this kind of stuff come up and not keep us informed of\vhat's involved is very frustrating and it's upsetting to 1ne," Turney said.''We don't object to the annexations, as long as there are no land use amendments to the property. This property is at the doorstep of the equestrian community and the village. We want to make sure what's being done is being done correctly." Kurtz assured Turney that there were no land use changes being proposed. Board of Directors i The \Vel!inoton Charnber of Con1merce . ---~···--------------C---------------·-'---------
www.wellingtonchamber.com, 18 Mar 2010 .[cached]. Dean Turney Wellington Equestrian Alliance Wellington, FL 33414Phone: (561) 833-4919Fax: (561) 833-6987 Business Deveiopn1ent Board- Paln1 J3each Countv's Business Resource www.bdb.org, 1 Mar 2009 jcachs::d1 Left: Dean Turney, Executive Director, Wellington Equestrian Alliance \Vcllin2:ton Chamber of Commerce ---------·--------4,_.------------------------~--------.. -~--------------·---
WWW. wellingtonchamber.com, 9 Oct 2009 k~1._gl~.~U Dean Turney Wellington Equestrian Alliance Wellington, FL 33414 Phone: (561) 833-4919 Fax: (561) 833-6987 Other Peoo!e with this Name ( !,455) ---------~---·---- -----··--·----
Council - South Florida Fair Board Member - West Pa'm Beach Special Events Committee - West Palm Beach Charter Review Com!T'.ittee
Enjoy the Ocean (fishing & boating), Backgammon, Polo, Show Jumping. Politics, Music, Reading.
Contact
516-887-9889 p.S
Aug 10 11 01:21p In::~ Novack
Great event at a great venue for a great cause.
It's rewarding to have a client (Mark Bellissimo/Equestrian Sport Productions} that contributes to the community with charitable events like this.
r understand tables are sold out for the Mara-Lago event but plan on attending the Great Charity Challenge in Wellington the evening of January 26.
Mark Bellissimo and Donald Trump
Announce The First Annual ...
myemail.constantcontact.com
rfJ No likes vet.
516-887-9889 p.7
PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMISSION ON ETHICS
MEMOitANDUM OF INQUIItY
To: Megan Rogers, Interim Executive Director
From: James A. Poag, Investigator
Re: C13-004- Dean Turney (Lobbyist Registration Ordinance)
• Background
This matter came to the attention of Commission on Ethics staff via a sworn complaint filed by Bart Novak (Complainant), a resident of the Village of Wellington (the Village). The complaint alleges that Dean Turney (Respondent) is conducting lobbying activities within the Village; however he has not registered as a lobbyist pursuant to the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance (the Ordinance). Attached to the complaint were copies of screen shots from the Respondent's Facebook page with the following comment, "It's rewarding to have a client (Mark Bellisimo/Equestrian Sports Productions)".
The allegations made in the complaint, if true, would constitute a violation of Section 2-353. Registration and expenditures, of the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance, adopted by the Village of Wellington on June 12, 2012.
On February 4, 2013, I was assigned this complaint for follow-up. I reviewed the information contained in the file in its entirety. My initial review revealed that the Respondent refers to himself as a lobbyist on his Facebook page. Documents submitted to file also indicate that the Respondent lists Equestrian Sports Productions (ESP) under the work section of his Facebook page. I conducted an internet search of the website for Equestrian Sports Productions (ESP) (www.equestriansport.com). It showed that ESP is the owner of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wellington Equestrian Partners, LLC (WEP). A search of the Florida Department of State website (www.sunbiz.org), listed Mr. Mark Bellisimo as the Registered Agent/ Managing Member for ESP.
I also conducted a search of the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration database (https:/ /secure.co.palmbeach.fl.us/LRS/Registry). It showed that the Respondent was a registered lobbyist for two separate principals. The first being Jack Cosica, whose principal address is listed as 631 US 1, #304, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. The second is listed as Ranch Colony HOA-Ted Weise, whose principal address is listed as C/0 Mmi of the Pbchs Inc., 1201 US 1, Ste. 330, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. My search failed to reveal any evidence that the Respondent was registered to conduct lobbying activities for any principal for the Village, including Bellissimo and ESP.
Following my internet search, I reviewed all of the Village of Wellington sign-in logs and lobbyist registration logs from June 1, 2012 thru February 6, 2013. My reviewed revealed on December 18, 2012, Respondent signed in on the Village front desk sign in sheet. According to the information contained on the sign-in sheet, Respondent was there for a meeting with Mayor Robert Margolis. Respondent also indicated on the sign-in sheet that he was not a lobbyist. This was the only date identified in which Respondent visited the Village of Wellington during the timeframe indicated above.
• Interview with Robert Margolis, Mayor. Village of Wellington
On February 6, 2013, I went to the Village of Wellington municipal offices located at 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard, Wellington FL and interviewed Mayor Robert Margolis. The interview was recorded and Margolis was placed under oath. No other persons were present during this interview.
Page 1 of 6
I asked Mayor Margolis if he knew Respondent and if so, in what capacity. Margolis stated that he has known Respondent for over 25 years and that he has been very influential in County and Municipal politics in Palm Beach County. Then I asked Margolis if he had any meetings with Respondent since taking office as Mayor of the Village. He stated that he had one meeting with Respondent and Paul Schofield on December 18, 2012. According to Margolis, the meeting was held at the request of Respondent.
Then I asked Mayor Margolis what the purpose of the meeting was, and he said, "the purpose of the meeting quite frankly, he was lobbying on behalf of his client Mr. Bellissimo and Wellington Equestrian Properties (WEP)." According to Margolis, the entire meeting was controlled by Respondent. He asked several questions related Mr. Bellissimo's property, PBIEC, Equestrian Village and everything involved with Equestrian Village. Margolis said, "he was definitely lobbying at that time."
I asked Margolis what Respondent was seeking from him and Schofield at this meeting. Margolis stated that he was seeking support for Bellissimo's projects and trying to find out his (Margolis) opinion and clarification on his views. During the interview, Margolis emphasized that he felt Respondent was lobbying on behalf of his client to change his views. I asked Margolis if there were any items currently going before the Village Council (the Council) for consideration pertaining to Bellissimo. He stated that there were no items currently coming before the Council; however, there is current litigation and a stipulation agreement related to said litigation, which was the subject of Respondent's lobbying efforts.
Then I asked Margolis if he could clarify specifically which one of Bellissimo's entities the Respondent was lobbying. Margolis stated that Respondent was lobbying for the primary entity, WEP. Margolis also stated that he was informed by Bellissmo that he also uses Respondent to lobby for him in Tallahassee.
I asked Margolis if the December 18, 2012 meeting was the only meeting that he has had with Respondent. He said that it was the only official meeting he has had with him since joining the Village Council. Margolis said that he recalls having a meeting with Respondent while serving on the Village Planning and Zoning Advisory Board (P&Z). I asked Margolis if he remembered the date of that meeting. He stated that he does not remember the date of the meeting; however, he did remember that Respondent was representing WEP at that time. During the interview, Margolis provided a letter from Respondent addressed to former Village Attorney Jeffrey Kurtz dated January 4, 2012 (submitted to file). In this letter Respondent, on behalf of WEP, requested that Margolis recuse himself from voting as a member of the P&Z on Equestrian Village project, or any other matters related to WEP or ESP.
Then I asked Margolis if at any time during his meeting with Respondent, Respondent mentioned that he was a lobbyist. According to Margolis, Respondent never mentions lobbying; however Margolis stated that he knows the difference between lobbying and information gathering. Margolis stated that what the Respondent was doing is "definitely lobbying on behalf of his client Wellington Equestrian Partners".
During the interview with Margolis, he provided a copy of his Outlook Calendar from April 2012 through January 20, 2013. A review of Margolis' calendar showed December 18, 2012 as the only meeting scheduled with Respondent during the listed time period.
• Interview with Paul Schofield. Village Manager, Village of Wellington
On February 6, 2013, I interviewed Paul Schofield, Village Manager at the Village of Wellington municipal offices. The interview was recorded and Schofield was placed under oath. No other persons were present during this interview.
I asked Schofield if he knew Respondent and in what capacity. Schofield stated that he does know Respondent and they have a personal and professional relationship. I asked Schofield if he had any meetings with Respondent in his professional capacity. Schofield stated that he has had several meetings with Respondent. I asked Schofield if he could recall how many meetings he has had with Respondent since June 2012. According to Schofield, his
Page 2 of 6
outlook calendar only showed one meeting on December 18, 2012; however, he believes that there may have been other meetings. I asked Schofield if anyone else was present during the December 18, 2012 meeting he had with Respondent. He stated that Mayor Margolis was also present during this meeting.
Then I asked Schofield to explain the topic of the December 18, 2012 meeting. According to Schofield, the meeting was in reference to general questions about the Equestrian Village and the meeting closed on the topic of the Village hosting the League of Cities meeting at PBIEC. When I asked if there were any specifics discussed, Schofield said they specifically discussed the Equestrian Village project. When I asked Schofield if he felt that Respondent was attempting to gain his goodwill, Schofield said he believes Respondent was seeking the goodwill of the Village in reference to sponsoring the League of Cities meeting at PBIEC.
I asked Schofield who Respondent was representing in his efforts, and he said WEP/ESP and Mark Bellissimo. Then I asked Schofield if there were any items currently going before the Council for consideration pertaining to Bellissimo. He stated that there were no items currently coming before the Council; however, there is ongoing litigation and a stipulation agreement related to the continuation of the dressage season at the Equestrian Village. According to Schofield there were several topics covered with Bellissimo and his interests.
Then I asked Schofield if he felt that the primary purpose of the meeting was to sway his opinion. He replied, {(yes, that is a fair statement." Schofield added that he has known Turney for several years and for the past couple of years he knew that Turney represented Bellissmo and his interest in the Village of Wellington exclusively.
Following the meeting with Schofield, he provided his e-mails from January 2012 thru February 2013. A review of his e-mail communications revealed written contact with Respondent that may indicate other meetings. Additional investigation is needed for clarification. Schofield also provided a copy of an Outlook calendar appointment from November 7, 2011 for a meeting with Respondent and Bellissimo held in his office.
• Documents submitted to investigative file:
1. Copy of Equestrian Sports Productions (ESP) homepage, retrieved from: www.equestriansport.com 2. Copy of Florida Division of Corporations registration for ESP, retrieved from: www.sunbiz.org 3. Copy of Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration for Dean Turney, retrieved from:
https:/ /secu re.co. pa I m-beach. fl.us/LRS/Registry 4. Copies of Village of Wellington sign-in logs and lobbyist registration logs from June 1, 2012 thru February
6, 2013 5. Margolis Outlook Calendar: April 9, 2012 thru January 20, 2013 6. January 4, 2013 letter to Kurtz from Respondent 7. Copies of Schofield Outlook appointments for November 7, 2011 & December 18, 2012 8. Schofield e-mails from January 2012 thru February 2013
• Applicable Law
The following portions of the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance Effective April 2, 2012 are relevant to this Investigation.
Article VIII. LOBBYIST REGISTRATION
Section 2-352. Definitions.
Unless expressly provided herein to the contrary, for purposes of this article, the following definitions will apply:
Lobbying shall mean seeking to influence a decision through oral or written communication or an attempt to obtain the goodwill of any county commissioner, any member of a local municipal governing body, any
Page 3 of 6
mayor or chief executive officer that is not a member of a local municipal governing body, any advisory board member, or any employee with respect to the passage, defeat or modification of any item which may foreseeably be presented for consideration to the advisory board, the board of county commissioners, or the local municipal governing body lobbied as applicable. (Emphasis added)
Lobbyist shall mean any person who is employed and receives payment, or who contracts for economic consideration, for the purpose of lobbying on behalf of a principal, and shall include an employee whose principal responsibility to the employer is overseeing the employer's various relationships with government or representing the employer in its contacts with government. (Emphasis added)
"Lobbyist" shall not include:
(1) Any employee, contract employee, or independent contractor of a governmental agency or entity lobbying on behalf of that agency or entity, any elected local official when the official is lobbying on behalf of the governmental agency or entity which the official serves, or any member of the official's staff when such staff member is lobbying on an occasional basis on behalf of the governmental agency or entity by which the staff member is employed.
(2) Any person who is retained or employed for the purpose of representing an employer, principal or client only during a publicly noticed quasi-judicial hearing or comprehensive plan hearing, provided the person identifies the employer, principal or client at the hearing.
(3) Any expert witness who is retained or employed by an employer, principal or client to provide only scientific, technical or other specialized information provided in agenda materials or testimony only in public hearings, so long as the expert identifies the employer, principal or client at the hearing.
(4) Any person who lobbies only in his or her individual capacity for the purpose of self-representation and without compensation.
(5) Any employee, contract employee, or independent contractor of the Palm Beach County League of Cities, Inc., lobbying on behalf of that entity.
Official or employee means any official or employee of the county or the municipalities located within the county, whether paid or unpaid. The term "employee" includes but is not limited to all managers, department heads and personnel of the county or the municipalities located within the county. The term also includes contract personnel and contract administrators performing a government function, and chief executive officer who is not part of the local governing body. (Emphasis added)
Section 2-353. Registration and expenditures.
(a) Registration required. Prior to lobbying, all lobbyists shall submit an original, fully executed registration form to county administration, which shall serve as the official location for countywide lobbyist registration and which shall be known as the "Central Lobbyist Registration Site." The registration may be submitted in paper or electronic form pursuant to countywide policies and procedures. Each lobbyist is required to submit a separate registration for each principal represented. A registration fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00) must be included with each registration form submitted. A registrant shall promptly send a written statement to county administration canceling the registration for a principal upon termination of the lobbyist's representation of that principal. This statement shall be signed by the lobbyist. Lobbying prior to registration is prohibited. It is the responsibility of the lobbyist to keep all information contained in the registration form current and up to date. (Emphasis added)
Section 2-356. Enforcement.
(a) If the county administrator or municipal administrator as applicable is informed of any person who has failed to comply with the requirements of this article, he or she shall conduct a preliminary investigation as deemed necessary under the circumstances. In the event the county administrator or
Page 4 of 6
municipal administrator as applicable determines that a violation may have occurred based on the results of the investigation, the county administrator or municipal administrator as applicable shall forward the matter to the county commission on ethics for further investigation and enforcement proceeding as set forth in article XIII of this chapter, the countywide code of ethics. For the purposes of further investigation and enforcement by the commission on ethics, a complaint submitted under this subsection by the county administrator or municipal administrator shall be deemed legally sufficient.
(b) The commission on ethics may process any other legally sufficient complaints of violations under this article pursuant to the procedures established in article XIII of this chapter. (Emphasis added)
(c) Registration exceptions. Registration shall not be required for the following:
(1) Persons under contract with the county or municipalities as applicable who communicate with county commissioners, members of local municipal governing bodies, mayors or chief executive officers that are not members of a local municipal governing body, advisory board members or employees regarding issues related only to the performance of their services under their contract;
(2) Any attorney representing a client in an active or imminent judicial proceeding, arbitration proceeding, mediation proceeding where a mediator is present, or formal administrative hearing conducted by an administrative law judge in the Division of Administrative Hearings, in which the county or municipality as applicable is a party, who communicates with county or municipal attorneys on issues related only to the subject matter of the judicial proceeding, arbitration proceeding, mediation proceeding, or formal administrative hearing. This exception to the registration requirement includes communications with other government officials and employees conducted during depositions, mediation, arbitration hearings or trial, judicial hearings or trial, and settlement negotiations for active litigation, so long as the county or municipal attorneys are present for those communications. (Emphasis added)
According to the definitions under §2-352 of the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance (the Ordinance), lobbying shall mean seeking to influence a decision through oral or written communication or an attempt to obtain the goodwill of any county commissioner, any member of a local municipal governing body, any mayor or chief executive officer that is not a member of a local municipal governing body, any advisory board member, or any employee with respect to the passage, defeat or modification of any item which may foreseeably be presented for consideration to the advisory board, the board of county commissioners, or the local municipal governing body lobbied as applicable. (Emphasis added)
Witness testimony and documentary evidence obtained during this inquiry revealed on at least one occasion, Respondent met with Paul Schofield Village Manager and Mayor Robert Margolis in an attempt to obtain their goodwill in reference to Wellington Equestrian Partners, LLC and Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. According to the Village of Wellington Sign-In Sheets, Respondent signed in to meet with Mayor Margolis on December 18, 2012. Respondent did not indicate that he was a lobbyist. Witness statements provided indicate that during the meeting Respondent made several attempts to gain goodwill from Margolis and Schofield regarding ongoing litigation and a stipulation agreement that the Village was actively involved in with Mark Bellissimo. In addition Respondent also attempted to gain goodwill in the decision of the Village to host the League of Cities Meeting on the grounds of PBIEC.
Section 2-353 Registration required, of the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance states in part:
Prior to lobbying, all lobbyists shall submit an original, fully executed registration form to county administration, which shall serve as the official location for countywide lobbyist registration and which shall be known as the "Central Lobbyist Registration Site." (Emphasis added)
Page 5 of 6
Inquiry revealed that Respondent is not registered as a lobbyist for Wellington Equestrian Partners, LLC, or any other holdings of Mark Bellissimo. A review the Central Lobbyist Registration Site revealed that Respondent is a registered lobbyist for two separate principals, the first being Jack Cosica, whose principal address is listed as 631 US 1, #304, North Palm Beach, FL 33408, and the second is listed as Ranch Colony HOA-Ted Weise, whose principal address is listed as C/0 Mmi of the Pbchs Inc. 1201 US 1, Ste. 330, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. In both cases, Respondent is registered as a lobbyist only for Palm Beach County, not the Village. In fact there is no registration on file for WEP, ESP, or any other holdings of Mark Bellissimo, and Respondent is not registered as a lobbyist for the Village for any principal.
It should be noted that Section 2-353 (c) Registration exceptions, of the Ordinance provides for exceptions; however, the investigation failed to provide evidence that Respondent's circumstances meet any of the criteria listed in this section of the Ordinance.
• Conclusion
Based on the information provided in the initial inquiry, staff recommends that LEGAL SUFFICIENCY EXISTS to open
Page 6 of 6
PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMISSION ON ETHICS
MEMORANDUM OF LEGAL SUFFICIENCY
To: Commission on Ethics
From: Megan C. Rogers, Interim Executive Director
Re: C13-004- Dean Turney
• Recommendation
Regarding Respondent, Dean Turney, the Commission on Ethics Staff recommends a finding of LEGALLY SUFFICIENT be entered in case number C12-004.
Legal sufficiency exists where there is an allegation of a violation of an ordinance within the jurisdiction of the Ethics Commission, purportedly committed by an individual within the authority of the Ethics Commission, based upon facts which have been sworn to by a material witness or witnesses, and if true would constitute the offenses alleged, relating to a violation occurring after the effective date of the code, and filed with the Ethics Commission within two years of the alleged violation.
• Background
This matter came to the attention of Commission on Ethics staff via a sworn complaint filed by Bart Novak (Complainant), a resident of the Village of Wellington (the Village). The complaint alleges that Dean Turney (Respondent) is conducting lobbying activities within the Village; however, he has not registered as a lobbyist pursuant to the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance (the Ordinance). The Village adopted the ordinance on June 12, 2012.
Based upon the information presented in the Complaint, an initial inquiry was undertaken. Documentation was obtained from the Village of Wellington (the Village) including Village sign-in logs and lobbyist registration logs during the time period of June 1, 2012 through February 6, 2013. The Respondent signed the Village sign in log on December 18, 2012 for a meeting with Mayor Robert Margolis. Respondent indicated on the form that he was not a lobbyist.
Attached to the complaint were copies of screen shots from the Respondent's Facebook page with the following comment, "It's rewarding to have a client (Mark Bellisimo/Equestrian Sports Productions)". Further review of Respondent's Facebook page revealed that the Respondent refers to himself as a lobbyist and lists Equestrian Sports Productions (ESP) under "work". Investigator James Poag conducted an internet search of the website for Equestrian Sports Productions (ESP) (www.equestriansport.com). It showed that ESP is the owner of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wellington Equestrian Partners, LLC (WEP). A search of the Florida Department of State website (www.sunbiz.org), listed Mr. Mark Bellisimo as the Registered Agent/Managing Member for ESP.
Sworn statements were taken from Village Manager Paul Schofield and from Village Mayor Robert Margolis. Schofield indicated that at the December 181
h meeting, Respondent discussed hosting an upcoming League of Cities meeting at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) and more generally, the Equestrian Village Project. Schofield stated that he believed the Respondent was seeking the goodwill of the Village in reference to sponsoring a League of Cities meeting at PBIEC. Mayor Margolis separately stated that Respondent specifically discussed the Equestrian Village Project and that he believed Respondent was lobbying on behalf of WEP.
Currently, there is ongoing litigation and a stipulation agreement related to the continuation of the dressage season at the Equestrian Village between WEP and the Village. These matters along with the use of PBIEC for an upcoming League of Cities meeting may foreseeably be presented for consideration to the Village Council.
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In determining whether or not there is sufficient information based upon facts which have been sworn to as true by a material witness or witnesses as well as documentary evidence to support a finding of legal sufficiency, staff investigator James Poag interviewed witnesses with knowledge and obtained relevant documents. The information obtained, if true, would support the offenses alleged and provide a sufficient basis to institute a complaint in good faith.
• Analysis
Pursuant to Chapter 2, Article V, Division 8, §2-258(a), the jurisdiction of the commission on ethics extends violations of §2-353(a), Registration required, of the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance. The Commission on Ethics also has personal jurisdiction over Dean Turney, insofar as he is a lobbyist engaged in lobbying activities within the Village of Wellington (the Village) as of June 12, 2012, the effective date of the ordinance within the Village.
Applying the available documents and sworn statements to the Lobbyist Registration Ordinance, we review the facts to determine whether reliable information points to a violation of the registration requirement.
The following sections of the Lobbyist Registration Ordinance are relevant to this Memorandum of Legal Sufficiency.
Sec. 2-352. Definitions. Unless expressly provided herein to the contrary, for purposes of this article, the following definitions will apply:
Advisory board shall mean any advisory or quasi-judicial board created by the board of county commissioners, by the local municipal governing bodies, or by the mayors who serve as chief executive officers or by mayors who are not members of local municipal governing bodies.
Central Lobbyist Registration Site will mean the official location for countywide lobbyist registration.
Lobbying shall mean seeking to influence a decision through oral or written communication or an attempt to obtain the goodwill of any county commissioner, any member of a local municipal governing body, any mayor or chief executive officer that is not a member of a local municipal governing body, any advisory board member, or any employee with respect to the passage, defeat or modification of any item which may foreseeably be presented for consideration to the advisory board, the board of county commissioners, or the local municipal governing body lobbied as applicable.
Lobbyist shall mean any person who is employed and receives payment, or who contracts for economic consideration, for the purpose of lobbying on behalf of a principal, and shall include an employee whose principal responsibility to the employer is overseeing the employer's various relationships with government or representing the employer in its contacts with government.
Local Municipal Governing Body will mean the councils and commissions of the municipalities located within Palm Beach County, Florida.
Official or employee means any official or employee of the county or the municipalities located within the county, whether paid or unpaid. The term "employee" includes but is not limited to all managers, department heads and personnel of the county or the municipalities located within the county. The term also includes contract personnel and contract administrators performing a government function, and chief executive officer who is not part of the local governing body. The term "official" shall mean members of the board of county commissioners, a mayor, members of local municipal governing bodies, and members appointed by the board of county commissioners, members of local municipal governing bodies or mayors or chief executive officers that are not members of local municipal governing body, as applicable, to serve on any advisory, quasi judicial, or any other board of the county, state, or any other regional, local, municipal, or corporate entity.
Persons and entities shall be defined to include all natural persons, firms, associations, joint ventures, partnerships, estates, trusts, business entities, syndicates, fiduciaries, corporations, and all other organizations.
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Principal shall mean the person or entity a lobbyist represents, including a lobbyist's employer or client, for the purpose of lobbying.
Sec. 2-353. Registration and expenditures.
(a) Registration required. Prior to lobbying, all lobbyists shall submit an original, fully executed registration form to county administration, which shall serve as the official location for countywide lobbyist registration and which shall be known as the "Central Lobbyist Registration Site." The registration may be submitted in paper or electronic form pursuant to countywide policies and procedures. Each lobbyist is required to submit a separate registration for each principal represented . A registration fee of twentyfive dollars ($25) must be included with each registration form submitted. A registrant shall promptly send a written statement to county administration canceling the registration for a principal upon termination of the lobbyist's representation of that principal. This statement shall be signed by the lobbyist. Lobbying prior to registration is prohibited. It is the responsibility of the lobbyist to keep all information contained in the registration form current and up to date.
Village contact logs confirm that Respondent did meet with Mayor Robert Margolis on December 18, 2012. Additionally, sworn testimony indicates that the purpose of the meeting was to lobby on behalf of Wellington Equestrian Partners and Equestrian Sports Productions regarding the Equestrian Village Project and use of the PBIEC faculties for an upcoming meeting. It is foreseeable that these matters may be presented for consideration to an advisory board or governing body.
• Conclusion
Because sufficient information is provided by the documents and sworn interviews obtained through inquiry, and reasonable inferences from those documents and interviews, if true, could support a violation of the code of ethics, case number C13-004 against Respondent, Dean Turney, is LEGALLY SUFFICIENT. Therefore, an investigation into this matter should proceed.
By:
\ / l I
Commission on Ethics 2633 Vista Parkway West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (561) 233-0724
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PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMISSION ON ETHICS
MEMORANDUM OF INVESTIGATION
To: Megan Rogers, Interim Executive Director
From: James A. Poag, Investigator
Re: C13-004- Dean Turney (Lobbyist Registration Ordinance)
• Background
This matter came to the attention of the Commission on Ethics (COE) staff through a sworn complaint submitted by Bart Novak (Complainant) a resident of the Village of Wellington (the Village). The Memorandum of Inquiry as filed under case number C13-004 is incorporated by reference. All information and evidence obtained during the initial inquiry is also incorporated by reference into this Memorandum of Investigation.
• Investigation
On February 27, 2013, I contacted Dean Turney (Respondent) in response to an email he sent to COE Investigator Mark Bannon. Respondent inquired about an alleged complaint filed against him. I informed Respondent that a complaint had been filed against him by Bart Novak. I also provided Respondent with a copy of the complaint with attachment via email. During my conversation with Respondent, I asked him if he would agree to meet with me to provide a sworn statement. Respondent agreed to a meeting to be held on March 13, 2013.
On March 13, 2012, I received an email from Respondent in which he questioned comments made by Robert Margolis, Mayor and John Greene, Village Councilman. According to Respondent's email, he feels that Margolis and Greene have received leniency from the COE with regard to recent complaints filed against them, and that they have a special relationship with the COE. Respondent stated that he felt that comments made by Margolis and Greene were inappropriate and they discouraged citizens from filing complaints in fear of retaliation. I assured Respondent that the COE is in no way protective of Mayor Margolis or Councilman Greene. The decisions of the Commission are based solely upon facts and evidence discovered throughout the investigative process. Citizens who believe that a violation of the Code of Ethics has taken place are entitled to file a complaint without fear of reprisal. I also encouraged him to file a complaint if he felt that he had evidence that an individual under the jurisdiction of the Code of Ethics had committed a violation.
• Sworn Statement: Dean Turney, Respondent
On March 13, 2013, Dean Turney was interviewed at the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics office located at 2633 N. Vista Parkway, West Palm Beach, FL 33411. The interview was recorded and Respondent was placed under oath. No other persons were present during this interview.
I asked Respondent if he was employed by Mark Bellissimo or any of his holdings. Respondent stated that he was employed by Equestrian Sports Productions, Inc. (ESP). Then I asked Respondent what capacity he was employed with ESP. Respondent stated that he does community and public relations. I asked him to explain what his duties involve, and respondent explained that his duties involve promoting the equestrian industry throughout Palm Beach County including people in Wellington, chambers of commerce, and other business organizations. Respondent also stated that his duties involve promoting awareness in the community about the Winter Equestrian Festival and other ESP events. Then I asked Respondent if his duties included meeting with government officials and/or employees. He stated, not in the case of ESP at least for the past year. I asked if he met with any official/employees on behalf of ESP prior to the past year. He said "possibly, but I couldn't recall any specifics."
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It should be noted that Respondent is a registered lobbyist for two separate principals. The first being Jack Cosica, whose principal address is listed as 631 US 1, #304, North Palm Beach, Fl 33408, and the second is listed as Ranch Colony HOA-Ted Weise, whose principal address is listed as C/0 Mmi of the Pbchs Inc. 1201 US 1, Ste. 330, North Palm Beach, Fl33408.
I asked Respondent if he recalled a December 18, 2012, meeting with Paul Schofield, Village Manager and Robert Margolis, Village Mayor. He stated that he did remember this particular meeting. When I asked him about the topic of the meeting, he said the meeting was a general meeting to discuss equestrian issues. He stated that he made it clear during the meeting that he was there on his own behalf and that he was not authorized by Mark Bellissimo or anyone else to discuss any of the issues surrounding the current litigation between the Village and ESP. I asked Respondent if he could recall any specifics that were discussed during the meeting; however, he claimed that he could not remember any of the specifics. Respondent stated that he recalled that the Mayor mentioned that he wanted to meet with the Wellington Equestrian Forum, which is a community organization that the Respondent is involved with.
I asked Respondent if a conversation took place regarding the Village hosting the Palm Beach County league of Cities (the league) monthly meeting at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) which is owned and operated by ESP. Respondent stated that he did recall discussing this matter; however, his efforts to obtain goodwill were solely on behalf of himself and the league. According to the Respondent, one of his primary purposes for joining the league was to have the Village host the luncheon at PBIEC. I questioned Respondent as to why PBIEC was the venue he chose to promote. Respondent stated his reason was just to promote the equestrian industry and to raise the awareness of the venues that are available in the Village. Then I asked Respondent if PBIEC benefited from the meeting wouldn't Mark Bellissimo and ESP also benefit? He replied, "I can't attest to that."
I asked Respondent if he recalled any mention of the stipulation agreement related to the ongoing litigation between the Village and ESP during the December 18, 2012 meeting. According to Respondent he does not recall any specific conversation. Then I asked Respondent if he could explain why Mayor Margolis and Manager Schofield would believe that the stipulation agreement was one of the reasons for the meeting. Respondent stated that the stipulation agreement may have been mentioned, but he is not an attorney and has no authority to speak about the ongoing litigation. According to Respondent, he made it very clear that he was there on his behalf and not as a representative of ESP. However, he stated that he mentioned to both Manager Schofield and Mayor Margolis that it would be great to end all of the acrimony and fighting between the Village and ESP.
At the conclusion of the interview, I asked Respondent if his position requires him to seek goodwill on behalf of ESP. He stated, "Yes, within the community." When I asked if his efforts extended to governmental officials, he said that he has given up on seeking goodwill from Village officials. However, following the interview, Respondent stated that the meeting was a "goodwill meeting to establish a rapport with the Mayor and the Village Manager".
End of Interview
On March 15, 2013, I spoke with Richard Radcliffe, Executive Director for the league via telephone. I asked Radcliffe if Respondent was a member of the league. According to Radcliffe, Respondent was approved to become an associate member of the league at the December 2012 league board meeting. When I asked Radcliffe to explain what "associate member" actually meant, he stated that an associate member was someone who was part of the general membership with no voting authority.
Then I asked Radcliffe if associate members, particularly the Respondent, were authorized to lobby on behalf of the league. Radcliffe stated that no one is authorized to lobby on behalf of the league; however, from time to time they ask associate members to assist with certain projects. I asked Radcliffe if he or anyone else in the league asked the Respondent to assist with coordinating the monthly league meeting held in Wellington. According to Radcliffe, he never asked the Respondent for any assistance because he deals directly with the municipal administrator. Additionally, he said that the individual cities are responsible for deciding where the
Page 2 of 5
meetings are held and for purchasing lunch. According to Radcliffe, the Respondent advised him that he wanted to host the meeting at PBIEC, and at that time Radcliffe advised Respondent that the decision on the venue was the responsibility of the Village Manager.
• Documents submitted to investigative file:
1. Copy of March 12, 2013 email and COE Investigator Poag's response
• Applicable Law
The following portions of the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance Effective April 2, 2012 are relevant to this Investigation.
Article VIII. LOBBYIST REGISTRATION
Section 2-352. Definitions.
Unless expressly provided herein to the contrary, for purposes of this article, the following definitions will apply:
Lobbying shall mean seeking to influence a decision through oral or written communication or an attempt to obtain the goodwill of any county commissioner, any member of a local municipal governing body, any mayor or chief executive officer that is not a member of a local municipal governing body, any advisory board member, or any employee with respect to the passage, defeat or modification of any item which may foreseeably be presented for consideration to the advisory board, the board of county commissioners, or the local municipal governing body lobbied as applicable. (Emphasis added)
Lobbyist shall mean any person who is employed and receives payment, or who contracts for economic consideration, for the purpose of lobbying on behalf of a principal, and shall include an employee whose principal responsibility to the employer is overseeing the employer's various relationships with government or representing the employer in its contacts with government. (Emphasis added)
"Lobbyist" shall not include:
(1) Any employee, contract employee, or independent contractor of a governmental agency or entity lobbying on behalf of that agency or entity, any elected local official when the official is lobbying on behalf of the governmental agency or entity which the official serves, or any member of the official's staff when such staff member is lobbying on an occasional basis on behalf of the governmental agency or entity by which the staff member is employed.
(2) Any person who is retained or employed for the purpose of representing an employer, principal or client only during a publicly noticed quasi-judicial hearing or comprehensive plan hearing, provided the person identifies the employer, principal or client at the hearing.
(3) Any expert witness who is retained or employed by an employer, principal or client to provide only scientific, technical or other specialized information provided in agenda materials or testimony only in public hearings, so long as the expert identifies the employer, principal or client at the hearing.
(4) Any person who lobbies only in his or her individual capacity for the purpose of self-representation and without compensation.
(5) Any employee, contract employee, or independent contractor of the Palm Beach County League of Cities, Inc., lobbying on behalf of that entity.
Official or employee means any official or employee of the county or the municipalities located within the county, whether paid or unpaid. The term "employee" includes but is not limited to all managers, department heads and personnel of the county or the municipalities located within the county. The term also includes contract personnel
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and contract administrators performing a government function, and chief executive officer who is not part of the local governing body. (Emphasis added)
Section 2-353. Registration and expenditures.
(a) Registration required. Prior to lobbying, all lobbyists shall submit an original, fully executed registration form to county administration, which shall serve as the official location for countywide lobbyist registration and which shall be known as the "Central Lobbyist Registration Site." The registration may be submitted in paper or electronic form pursuant to countywide policies and procedures. Each lobbyist is required to submit a separate registration for each principal represented. A registration fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00) must be included with each registration form submitted. A registrant shall promptly send a written statement to county administration canceling the registration for a principal upon termination of the lobbyist's representation of that principal. This statement shall be signed by the lobbyist. Lobbying prior to registration is prohibited. it is the responsibility of the lobbyist to keep all information contained in the registration form current and up to date. (Emphasis added)
Section 2-356. Enforcement.
(a) If the county administrator or municipal administrator as applicable is informed of any person who has failed to comply with the requirements of this article, he or she shall conduct a preliminary investigation as deemed necessary under the circumstances. In the event the county administrator or municipal administrator as applicable determines that a violation may have occurred based on the results of the investigation, the county administrator or municipal administrator as applicable shall forward the matter to the county commission on ethics for further investigation and enforcement proceeding as set forth in article XIII of this chapter, the countywide code of ethics. For the purposes of further investigation and enforcement by the commission on ethics, a complaint submitted under this subsection by the county administrator or municipal administrator shall be deemed legally sufficient.
(b) The commission on ethics may process any other legally sufficient complaints of violations under this article pursuant to the procedures established in article XIII of this chapter. (Emphasis added)
(c) Registration exceptions. Registration shall not be required for the following:
(1) Persons under contract with the county or municipalities as applicable who communicate with county commissioners, members of local municipal governing bodies, mayors or chief executive officers that are not members of a local municipal governing body, advisory board members or employees regarding issues related only to the performance of their services under their contract;
(2) Any attorney representing a client in an active or imminent judicial proceeding, arbitration proceeding, mediation proceeding where a mediator is present, or formal administrative hearing conducted by an administrative law judge in the Division of Administrative Hearings, in which the county or municipality as applicable is a party, who communicates with county or municipal attorneys on issues related only to the subject matter of the judicial proceeding, arbitration proceeding, mediation proceeding, or formal administrative hearing. This exception to the registration requirement includes communications with other government officials and employees conducted during depositions, mediation, arbitration hearings or trial, judicial hearings or trial, and settlement negotiations for active litigation, so long as the county or municipal attorneys are present for those communications. (Emphasis added)
• Summary of Investigation
The investigation revealed that Respondent is a contract employee hired by Equestrian Sports Productions (ESP) to perform community and public relations. Documentary evidence revealed that ESP is the owner of the Palm Beach
Page 4 of 5
International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wellington Equestrian Partners, LLC (WEP). A search of the Florida Department of State website (www.sunbiz.org), listed Mark Bellisimo as the Registered Agent/Managing Member for ESP.
Witness testimony revealed that Respondent's duties include promoting the equestrian industry throughout Palm Beach County including people in Wellington, chambers of commerce, and other business organizations. Witness statements and documentary evidence revealed on December 18, 2012, Respondent met with Village Mayor Robert Margolis and Village Manager Paul Schofield in a meeting described by Respondent as a "goodwill" meeting.
According to testimony provided by Mayor Margolis and Manager Schofield, Respondent sought to gain their goodwill with regard to hosting the Palm Beach County League of cities meeting at PBIEC. The investigation also revealed that during the meeting Respondent also discussed and sought the goodwill of Margolis and Schofield regarding the stipulation agreement between ESP and the Village of Wellington.
The investigation failed to provide any evidence that the Respondent is registered to conduct lobbying activities in the Village of Wellington pursuant to Section 2-353 Registration required, of the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance which states in part:
Prior to lobbying, a// lobbyists shall submit an original, fully executed registration form to county administration, which shall serve as the official location for countywide lobbyist registration and which shall be known as the "Central Lobbyist Registration Site." (Emphasis added)
(Initials) Date
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PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMISSION ON ETHICS
MEMOR.ANDUM OF PR.OBABLE CAUSE
To: Commission on Ethics
From: Mark Bannon, Advocate
Re: C13-004- Respondent, Dean Turney
• Recommendation
A finding of PROBABLE CAUSE should be entered in the above captioned matter as to the allegations made in the COMPLAINT.
Probable Cause exists where there are reasonably trustworthy facts and circumstances for the Commission on Ethics (COE} to conclude that the Respondent, Dean Turney, violated the Palm Beach County Code of Ethics.
• Jurisdiction
COE has jurisdiction pursuant to Chapter 2, Article V, Division 8, section 2-258(a) of the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics Ordinance which states in pertinent part:
Article V, Division 8, section 2-258. Powers and duties. (a) The commission on ethics shall be authorized to exercise such powers and shall be required to perform such duties as are hereinafter provided. The commission on ethics shall be empowered to review, interpret, render advisory opinions and enforce the;
(1) Countywide Code of Ethics; (2) County Post-Employment Ordinance, and (3) County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance.
The violations for which probable cause is recommended include the following:
This matter came to the attention of Commission on Ethics' staff via a sworn complaint filed by Bart Novak (Complainant), a resident of the Village of Wellington (the Village). The complaint alleges that Dean Turney (Respondent) is conducting lobbying activities within the Village; however he has not registered as a lobbyist pursuant to the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance (the Ordinance). The Village adopted the ordinance on June 12, 2012.
• Facts establishing probable cause
The COE inquiry and investigation are adopted by reference into this Probable Cause Memorandum.
Pursuant to Chapter 2, Article V, Division 8, §2-258(a), the jurisdiction of the commission on ethics extends violations of §2-353(a), Registration required, of the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance. The Commission on Ethics also has personal jurisdiction over Dean Turney, insofar as he is a lobbyist engaged in lobbying activities within the Village of Wellington (the Village) as of June 12, 2012, the effective date of the ordinance within the Village.
Page 1 of 3
Applying the available documents and sworn statements to the Lobbyist Registration Ordinance, we review the facts to determine whether reliable information points to a violation of the registration requirement.
The following sections of the Lobbyist Registration Ordinance are relevant to this Memorandum of Legal Sufficiency.
Sec. 2-352. Definitions. Unless expressly provided herein to the contrary, for purposes of this article, the following definitions will apply:
Advisory board shall mean any advisory or quasi-judicial board created by the board of county commissioners, by the local municipal governing bodies, or by the mayors who serve as chief executive officers or by mayors who are not members of local municipal governing bodies.
Central Lobbyist Registration Site will mean the official location for countywide lobbyist registration.
Lobbying shall mean seeking to influence a decision through oral or written communication or an attempt to obtain the goodwill of any county commissioner, any member of a local municipal governing body, any mayor or chief executive officer that is not a member of a local municipal governing body, any advisory board member, or any employee with respect to the passage, defeat or modification of any item which may foreseeably be presented for consideration to the advisory board, the board of county commissioners, or the local municipal governing body lobbied as applicable.
Lobbyist shall mean any person who is employed and receives payment, or who contracts for economic consideration, for the purpose of lobbying on behalf of a principal, and shall include an employee whose principal responsibility to the employer is overseeing the employer's various relationships with government or representing the employer in its contacts with government.
Local Municipal Governing Body will mean the councils and commissions of the municipalities located within Palm Beach County, Florida.
Official or employee means any official or employee of the county or the municipalities located within the county, whether paid or unpaid. The term "employee" includes but is not limited to all managers, department heads and personnel of the county or the municipalities located within the county. The term also includes contract personnel and contract administrators performing a government function, and chief executive officer who is not part of the local governing body. The term "official" shall mean members of the board of county commissioners, a mayor, members of local municipal governing bodies, and members appointed by the board of county commissioners, members of local municipal governing bodies or mayors or chief executive officers that are not members of local municipal governing body, as applicable, to serve on any advisory, quasi judicial, or any other board of the county, state, or any other regional, local, municipal, or corporate entity.
Persons and entities shall be defined to include all natural persons, firms, associations, joint ventures, partnerships, estates, trusts, business entities, syndicates, fiduciaries, corporations, and all other organizations.
Principal shall mean the person or entity a lobbyist represents, including a lobbyist's employer or client, for the purpose of lobbying.
Sec. 2-353. Registration and expenditures. (a) Registration required. Prior to lobbying, all lobbyists shall submit an original, fully executed registration form to county administration, which shall serve as the official location for countywide lobbyist registration and which shall be known as the "Central Lobbyist Registration Site." The registration may be submitted in
Page 2 of 3
paper or electronic form pursuant to countywide policies and procedures. Each lobbyist is required to submit a separate registration for each principal represented. A registration fee of twenty-five dollars ($25) must be included with each registration form submitted. A registrant shall promptly send a written statement to county administration canceling the registration for a principal upon termination of the lobbyist's representation of that principal. This statement shall be signed by the lobbyist. Lobbying prior to registration is prohibited. It is the responsibility of the lobbyist to keep all information contained in the registration form current and up to date.
Village contact logs confirm that Respondent met with Mayor Robert Margolis and City Manager Paul Schofield on December 18, 2012. Sworn testimony indicates that the purpose of the meeting was to lobby on behalf of Wellington Equestrian Partners and Equestrian Sports Productions regarding the Equestrian Village Project and use of the PBIEC facilities for an upcoming meeting. It is foreseeable that the stipulation agreement would be presented for consideration to the village Council.
• Conclusion
Based on the initial inquiry and the formal investigation into this matter, there is probable cause to believe that Respondent violated §2-353(a) of the Palm Beach County Lobbyist Registration Ordinance. Therefore, a finding of PROBABLE CAUSE should be entered in the above captioned matter.
By: Mark Bannon, Advocate Florida Bar No. 17640
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About Us Main Webpage Page 1 of 1
About Us Main Webpage
About WEP Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC (ESP) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wellington Equestrian Partners, a group of individuals dedicated to creating excellence in horse sports that they achieved in their businesses. WEP created ESP to bring together from around the world the best and most experienced individuals in managing horse shows, producing spectacular equestrian events and providing the highest levels of facilities and services to fulfill WEPs' goal of building in Wellington, Florida the top equestrian showcase on Earth. The WEP Partnership includes some of America's most prominent equestrian families who are committed to provide a home in Wellington for the equestrian community and to assure harmony between equestrian and non-equestrian interests in and around the horse show grounds named the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. WEP's founding partners are Mark and Katherine Bellissimo, Dennis and Marsha Dam merman and Roger and
Jennifer Smith. In late 2007, the partnership expanded to include: Dave Burton Sr., Ginny Burton, Dave Burton Jr., Julie Burton, Craig and Frances Lindner, Andy and Carlene Ziegler, Tim and Nancy Hooker, Charles and Candace Phillips, Stuart and Susan Goldstein, Bruce Duchossois, Bill and Kelley Farish, Caroline Moran, Frederic and Kimberly Boyer, Jean and Toni Goutal, Howard and Gwen Dvorkin, and Justin and Lee Kellogg Sandrian, Carol and Ludwig Sollak, Lisa & Robert Lourie. The investments made by the partners will preserve the legacy of the facilities they have supported for many years and continue the traditions they helped to establish.
Our Vision Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Wellington Equestrian Partners, plans to combine family fun and participation and the best in horse sport competition to provide unrivaled spectacular equestrian events. ESP is the company that manages the events that are being created and staged on more than 150 acres of beautifully designed and landscaped facilities at The Stadium and The Show Grounds that comprise the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in the Village of Wellington. The goal is bring to PBIEC exhibitors, families, vendors and service providers from all corners of the globe by offering facilities that provide:
• World class competition that displays the top horses and riders in jumping, show hunters and dressage . • An atmosphere that is welcoming and fun to families, participants, visitors both knowledgeable, just
curious or looking to be entertained by international level performances .
• Footing that is the best anywhere in the world to insure utmost riding and safety conditions for the horses that are the prime consideration.
• Galleries of shops that cater to every taste and budget.
• To relax with friends and family in a variety of restaurants and cafes serving fine food and drinks in an atmosphere that makes the most of South Florida's sunshine and fresh air .
• Offer activities catering to the horse lovers and those who pursue other endeavors, from babes in arms to senior citizens and everyone in between.
Whether you are a one time visitor or a full time participant we welcome you to share our world of beauty, majesty and magic of horses and riders performing as one.
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April 09, 2012 -April 15, 2012
Monday, April 09 ,0 '"' 12:00<!111Matt-vacatitm ~8:00am - 9:30am meeting with John Greene (Council conference
room ) - Kathy Adler
liJ 8:00am - 9:00am Meeting with John Greene/David flinchum/Bob Basehart
9:30am - 10:30am bob/Paul RE: Boys & Girls Club (Bob's office )
~ 11:30am - 12:30pm Meeting with Rhett Waldman and Bob regarding Rental Community group (City Hall)
lid 12:00pm - 12:30pm Lunch with Anne ,::•
iiii:l12:30pm - 2:00pm Bob Margolis/Mat Forest
Wednesday, April 11 ii!i.l9:30am - lO:OOam Matt and Art Society/Kristina
~3:00pm -4:00pm Bob to HR for paperwork
Friday, April 13 11:30am - 1:30pm Bob and Jeff Kurtz (Jeff's office)
2:30pm- 4:30pm Jeff Kurtz/Howard Coates (Howard's office)
I;;! 3:00pm - 4:30pm Bob to attend Palm Beach Polo Club Council of Presidents (Wellington Library)
I:;:J 6:30pm - 8:00pm Bob to judge at Flavors Event
Wednesday, September 19 Thursday, September 20 g,:. 12:00amAn~eo~t-~ftown- ----~------ ---- _- _ j iQi2~_QQ_allli;llstMeeti~-g~ --------__ - __ -·
~;;) 12:00pm - 1:00pm Literacy Luncheon - Manalapan - Bob Margolis, 1:30pm - 2:00pm WRTF in Pahokee - Matt will attend John Greene, Matt Willhite (Ritz Carlton, Manalapan)
Friday, September 21 • 0 'l' 12:00arn TrllstiVI_ee!illgs
~ 3:00pm - 3:30pm American*****
~]6:00pm - 6:30pm Rotary Peace Park ceremony - The Mayor will attend.
10:00am - 10:30am Director's Mtg (Admin Lg Conf Rm) - Paul Schofield ,;+
4:15pm- 5:00pm Meeting with Bob/Mark Belissimo (council conference room )
Wednesday, October 10 Thursday, October 11 10:00am - ll:OOam Managers Road Show- OFMB (Conf. Rm. 1C) - 3:00pm - 3:30pm Closing on NSP houses- Bob Margolis Laura A. Aldrich
Friday, October 12 Saturday, October 13
I Sunday, October 14
Kathy Adler 1 1/22/2013 1:33 PM
!October 15, 2012 -!October 21, 2012
Monday, October 15 12:00pm - 12:30pm lunch with Anne t:•
Wednesday, October 17 3:30pm -4:30pm Bob Margolis/Raddiffe (eagle scout)
10:00am - 10:30am Director's Mtg (Admin Lg Conf Rm) - Paul Schofield ,;•
5:30pm - 6:45pm Artist Reception - 2nd Floor Village Hall (Village Hall)
Thursday, November 15 Kadler -PTO
12:00all!~egislative Acti()[1 Days
Saturday, November 17 <}.
lilJ 7:00am - 7:30am Florida League of Mayors Meeting and Board of Directors Meeting in conjunction with the FLC legislative Conference at the Hyatt Regency Orlando
ll:OOam - 10:00pm Salsa Fest (Greenacres Community Park- 2905 Jog Road)
·~·· liil12:00pm - 7:00pm Salsa Fest
1/22/2013 10:58 AM
November 19, 2012 November 25, 2012
Monday, November 19 -------------·-· ------ --------·--·-
il Kadler -PTO
itil 12:00pm - 12:30pm Lunch with Anne {:•
Wednesday, November 21 - --- ------ ----- ----
·$1 Kadler -PTO ------ ·----
iiiiil1:30pm - 2:30pm Jim Harvey, Paul and Bob (Paul's Office)
D lO:OOam - 10:30am Director's Mtg (Admin Lg Conf Rm) - Paul Schofield •.::0
D 11:00am - 12:00pm Matt Willhite/IMLA
D 12:00pm - 1:00pm John Greene/IMLA
0 2:00pm - 3:00pm Anne Gerwig/IMLA
D 5:00pm - 6:00pm Howard eoates/IMLA
~ 6:00pm - 7:00pm Bob Margolis/IMLA
Wednesday, January 09 Thursday, January 10 D 2:00pm - 3:00pm Meeting with Mr. Eisenberg (Council conference 0 8:30am ·- 9:30am Meeting with Jaene Miranda and John Greene
room ) - Kathy Adler
D 2:00pm- 3:00pm Mr. Eisenberg/Bob Margolis/ John Bonde (Council conference room )
0 5:00pm - 9:00pm Council Workshop to discuss wee
[] 5:30pm -6:30pm Art in Public Places Reception (WCC)
Friday, January 11
Kathy Adler
Saturday, January 12
Sunday, January 13
1 1/22/2013 1:34PM
Janua 14, 2013 -January 20, 2013
Monday, January 14 12:00pm - 12:30pm Lunch with Anne {'
iil12:30pm - 2:00pm Bob lunch at NuVista
2:00pm- 3:00pm Bob to visit NuVista Living (NuVista Living at Wellington Green - 10220 NuVista Avenue)
9:00am - lO:OOam John Greene/George D'Ambrosio from Ridge Farm/ Staff member
!O:OOam -ll:OOam Anne Gerwig/George D'Ambrosio/Pianning Staff (Ridge Farm)
ll:OOam- 12:00pm Bob Margolis/George D'Ambrosio/Pianning Staff
1:30pm - 2:30pm Anne/Jaene Miranda
4:30pm - 5:30pm Bob Margo!is/Jaene Miranda
Wednesday, January 16 Thursday, January 17 ~9:00am - lO:OOam Bob to speak to 4th grade class at Panther Run 7:00am -7:30am MPO - Remind Matt
(Panther Run Elementary School )
9:30am - lO:OOam Bob to Ms. Silvestri's class - Panther Run
Friday, January 18 1:30pm - 3:30pm PBC Water Resource Task Force Meeting (Boca -TBD)
Kathy Adler
Saturday, January 19
Sunday, January 20
1 1/22/2013 1:35 PM
January 04, 2012
Mr. Jeff Kurtz, Attorney Village of Wellington 12300 Forest Hill Blvd Wellington, Fl 33414
Dear Mr. Kurtz:
This is to register the objections of Wellington Equestrian Partners (WEP) and Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) to the actions of Planning , Zoning and Adjustment Board member Bob Margolis pertaining to the proposed Equestrian Village project. This is also a request that Mr. Margolis be disqualified from participating or voting on items associated with Wellington Equestrian Partners or Equestrian Sport Productions that come before the PZA board. He has made it clear that he opposes Equestrian Village and that he believes the Village and WEP have acted in violation of the law. We believe the blatant nature of Mr. Margolis' actions should disqualify him from both quasi-judicial and quasi-legislative items.
All of us involved in governmental land use issues, including those of us who are non-lawyers, become aware of procedural requirements, many of which were established as a result of the Florida Supreme Court ruling in the "Snyder'' case. These procedural requirements are explained periodically by Village staff to advisory board members. And board members are reminded of appropriate procedures at every meeting where they are required to disclose ex-parte communications and meetings and attest that they were for informational purposes only and that their decision will be based on information that is part of the record. And as someone who served for two terms on the Village Council, Mr. Margolis certainly cannot claim ignorance or that his actions were unintended.
Mr. Margolis has used social media on several occasions to express his opposition to the Equestrian Village project and to voice his support for persons and organizations that are attempting to create opposition to the project. Indeed, one of his inappropriate activities was to voice support (in advance) for a "pep rally" that was held last evening (Tuesday, January). He then attended the "rally" and was given a special introduction by the organizers to those in attendance.
As the below also sliows, Mr. Margolis was involved with others in attempts to have the State's Attorney and County Inspector General take action against the Village of Wellington and WEP/ESP. Their accusations were devoid of merit and resulted only in public resources and funds being wasted Please note the attached correspondence from the Palm Beach county Inspector General's Office to Mr. Margolis dated August 23, 2011. This letter is in reference to complaintent Bob Margolis regarding allegations against the dressage covered arena. This reflects an on-going series of unjustified allegations of collusion made by Mr. Margolis against the Village and Wellington Equestrian Partners.
We believe Mr. Margolis actions are inappropriate for a Planning and Zoning Board member who is supposed to remain objective and neutral prior to a meeting. He is not qualified to consider the Equestrian Village project objectively. He has already committed to persons he will oppose the project. We sincerely hope that he will take the ethical course and voluntarily recuse himself so as to save the Village time and resources.
On behalf of Wellington Equestrian Partners,
Dean Turney 14440 Pierson Rd Wellington, Fl 33414
Paul Schofield
Subject: location:
Start: End:
Recurrence:
Organizer:
Meeting arranged thru Manager.
LM 11/7/11
Dean Turney & Mark Bellissimo Mgr's Office
Mon 11/7/2011 5:00 PM Mon 11/7/2011 6:00 PM
(none)
Paul Schofield
1
Paul Schofield
Subject: Location:
Start: End:
Recurrence:
Organizer:
LW 12/13/12
Mayor & Dean Turney-Equestrian Issues Manager's Office
Tue 12/18/2012 3:00 PM Tue 12/18/2012 4:00 PM
(none)
Paul Schofield
Paul Schofield
Subject: Location:
Start: End:
Recurrence:
Organizer:
LW 12/13/12
Mayor & Dean Turney-Equestrian Issues Manager's Office
You're the first substantive item so about 15-20 minutes after start.
Right I have map from website I'm sending.
Sent from my iPhone
On Sep 6, 2012, at 2:33PM, Michael O'Dell <modell@wellingtonfl .gov> wrote:
Dean, I am preparing a power point as we speak. The presentation will be about t he data col lected t o date. Th is data can be uti lized to support a master planning process. I am work on a 8-10 min t ime frame for t he presentation . The web site has t he maps you are referencing Can you tell me where I am in the agenda?
Michael O'Dell Project Director, Equestrian Master Plan 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington, Florida 33414 modell@wellingtonfl. gov (561) 753-2532
From: Dean Turney [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, September 06, 2012 10:21 AM To: Michael O'Dell Subject: Monday
Mike,
Regarding Monday:
1) Will you be setting up a PowerPoint presentation? 2) About how long will your initial presentation take? 3) Do you have any materials you would like sent beforehand to attendees via email?
Regarding #3, we would like to transmit a map of the Wellington Equestrian Preserve and an overview of the Master Plan.
As I mentioned because of my professional background in growth management and Comprehensive Planning, I'm helping coordinate this portion of Monday's Forum meeting. Thank you.
Dean Turney 561-346-5497 cell
E-mai l addresses are publ ic record under Florida Law and are not exempt from public-records requ irements. If you do not want your e-mail address to be subject to being released pursuant to a public-records request c/o not send e!ectmnic mail to this entity. Instead , contact th is office by telephone or in w1t ting, via tile United States Postal Service.
2_4_2013
Page 2
Communication m2de through e-rnai! or any other computer messaging system shall in no way be deemed to constitute iegal notice to The Vi!iage of \i\'e!lington or any of its agencies, offlcers, employees! agents or representatives with respect to any existing or potential claim or cause of action
2_4_2013
I· •
Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Attachments:
Dean Turney <[email protected]> Monday, January 02, 2012 10:35 AM David Flinchum; Robert Basehart; Olga Prieto; Jennifer Fritz Paul Schofield; JeffS. Kurtz Equestrian Village Information Program Equestrian village QA_07.pdf; EquestrianVillageOpEd.pdf
TO: Wellington Planning & Zoning Staff
From: Dean Turney
I want to advise that we have a vigorous public information program in place. Attached are two items that appear in the current edition of the Town Crier.
We have also been meeting with various interested persons and groups including homeowners in Polo Isle. We will be making a presentation to the Palm Beach Polo & Country Club Council of (HOA) Presidents this coming Friday.
Unfortunately there has been a coordinated effort by a group to generate opposition to Equestrian Village through misinformation and innuendo. For instance, they have constantly attempted to spread the rumor that work has started on the entire proposed Equestrian Village project prior to approvals. Below is a recent example of this effort that was posted on Facebook on Thursday. Below that are other examples of their efforts to generate opposition.
Please feel free to refer people who are seeking information or have concerns to:
Dean Turney 561-594-5579 landline 561-346-5497 cell
• [E]t
0
Wellington Equestrian Preservation Alliance
Check. Out what's happening at Pierson and Southshore. Mountains of dirt and debris. Dozens of dump trucks, bulldozers and earth movers. Has the destruction of the Equestrian Preserve begun?
Like · [Comment] · Share · December 29, 2.0J.l at 5;05pm ·
Community concerned about impacts from proposed Equestrian Village
phelpsmediagroup.com
Wellington, FL December 29, 2011 Traffic, noise, odors and competition to existing businesses. Wellington residents who have learned about the proposed Equestrian Viilage planned for the old polo stadium grounds believe the project will decimate property va lues, clog al ready congested mads an .. .
Bird's eye view of Equestrian Village from the comer of Pierson and South Shore Blvd.
What is the Equestrian Village? The Equestrian Village EV is the most important investment that WEP will ma e in Wellington. It is more than just a real estate project. It is also a business strategy to develop a connection to the community, enhance the current business, and provide an engine for economic growth. The location of the EV is critical as it represents a very strategic, visible, and accessible location. It will become the "gateway" to the Equestrian community. It will provide a central gathering spot open to the entire community that educates, entertains and inspires residents about the equestrian industry. There are components of the Equestrian Village local shops with an exhibition arena and a Wellington all of fame a riding academy a world class Showgrounds with dressage complex, covered arena, and derby field and a resort condo hotel. II of the elements are integrated. The hotel on the corner will become a world-wide recogni able piece of architecture for Wellington.
How do the four components of the EV help you accomplish your objectives? The four components above allow us to accomplish four ey objectives that are critical to Wellington ' s long term success engaging the community, increasing community participation, expanding the equestrian season, and finally as a vehicle to mar et Wellington to the equestrian industry and to the world.
How will the EV engage the Community? The EV provides a central gathering spot open to the entire community that educates, entertains and inspires residents about the Wellington equestrian industry. The limited number of shops and restaurants at Equestrian Village only , feet will surround an "exhibition" area where there can be daily and nightly exhibitions, demonstrations, training, and or clinics highlighting all dimensions of equestrian sport including riding, horse training , horse care, horse welfare , or job opportunities within the industry. n some days and evenings it could just be pony horse rides a live carousel , so to spea for residents of all ages to get exposed to and ride a horse. Some examples of demonstrations could be explanations of the different disciplines, jumpers, hunters, dressage, polo, driving, vaulting, reigning, cutting, etc. It could be an lympic rider demonstrating their craft or a top, a top groom or Ferrier explaining what they do. There would be an online schedule that would be available to those interested in attending. It would also include a "Legends of Wellington" all of fame exhibit that educates the community on Wellington 's istory. It would include a " olden orseshoe" on a wal of fame that would initially include C. liver Wellington, ill lvisa er, and ene ische.
Why will it increase Community Participation? nee people become engaged and nowledgeable we believe they will want to participate. If they have an interest in riding they would now find a high quality, accessible, and affordable Palm each iding cademy. The cademy provides a facility that will allow
residents to participate in the sport whether a child, adult, or senior or whether for recreational or competitive rider. It will also be the center of the universe for our new public school riding initiative and our proposed interscholastic riding program. lso, with the right level of awareness, education, and training we thin that residents will increase their interest in jobs that are available within the industry.
How will it expand the Equestrian season? The EV will strengthen and stimulate the expansion of the equestrian season by adding new events e.g. lobal ressage Festival, reed Shows, oung orse Shows, orse uctions etc. . With an integrated hotel option and covered arena, we believe we can pursue regional and national finals for licensed events as well as collegiate events. With a world class Showgrounds, an indoor arena, and a hotel option, we can pursue the World Cup Finals and or the
World Equestrian ames. We are also exploring western, cross country, and driving disciplines to add to the calendar of events. The more events the longer the season and the more economic impact on the community through increased spending and jobs.
What does it mean to market Wellington to the Industry and to the World? The EV allows us to introduce and mar et Wellington to a broad array of industry professionals horse owners, veterinarians, trainers, product manufacturers, equestrian retailers, drug companies, and tourists in order to enhance the exposure of Wellington through Trade Shows, Industry Conferences, spectator-oriented equestrian events and festivals. e.g. Equitana, reyerFest, Equine ffair . Those events can leverage the hotel, competition arenas, covered arena, and various hospitality complexes. any of these events would occur during the shoulder periods i.e. non-winter and would allow us to attract new riders, sponsors, and new businesses interested in relocating to Wellington, or new tourists some of whom can be converted to participants .
Why focus on a Dressage Complex? ressage has been the step child of equestrian sport in Wellington for years. There is a large passionate group of people who participate in the sport who have not had a world class facility in which to compete. There is an increasingly large group of dressage riders that ma e Wellington their full time home. I thin that will increase and there will be a longer season. Internationally, there is no real winter home for dressage and we are already seeing hundreds of new dressage horses and riders flowing into the community. The sport is growing and I thin it will give Wellington an important new dimension.
Why is the Hotel Important? The otel is one of the most important elements to bring Wellington to the next level and it will have the biggest impact on extending the season. First, the most obvious issue is meeting demand and serving our customers. The Palm each Sports Commission recently published an independent report that highlighted that the Winter Equestrian Festival generated , bed nights during the wee event. The ampton Inn, the only hotel in town, at full capacity during that time period generates , bed nights leaving a gap of , bed nights. Thus, of the demand is filled outside of Wellington. This translates into tens of millions of dollars spent outside of Wellington and a tremendous amount of unnecessary traffic on the roads. Those guests are most li ely eating and supporting non-Wellington businesses. Second, attracting world class Sponsorship is critical to our long term success. ne of the biggest complaints from our sponsors is that there is no full service hotel to put up their senior executives and customers. The ampton is the only hotel in Wellington and it does not have room service or conference facilities. Some of our sponsors have to put up their guests at the
otels throughout Palm each which can be a minute trip each way. ur largest sponsor FTI believes it is critical to maintain our standing and attract broader sponsorship. any of our existing and potential sponsors would love to bring in their ey customers and entertain them locally, however, it is inconvenient. world class hotel would allow us to dramatically expand our sponsor base. Finally, and most importantly, the existence of a otel will allow us to create and or attract new events to Wellington.
hotel would allow us to attract new events, industry conferences, trade shows, or to develop a new equestrian tourism product. The hotel would act as the headquarters for the events, tradeshows, conferences, and sponsors. These events will allow us to extend the season before and after the winter which will create jobs. If you bring a big conference, you would use the hotel as the headquarters for the event with the banquet and conference facilities. The event would be unique because you could leverage the other components of the property li e the village shops, the covered arena, the equestrian arenas, and the riding academy which would ma e the event unique. This would also bring commerce to other
hotels, local businesses, rental properties, and restaurants. s for tourism, this year the Palm each Convention and Visitors bureau ran an ad in orse and ound maga ine, the largest equestrian oriented English language maga ine in the World, which is based out of England. I believe that it has generated one group of people and over other tourists to experience Wellington and the Winter Equestrian Festival. Since there was no place to stay in Wellington, they are staying as far away as elray. destination equestrian resort would also be unique in that you could bring your horse to the local stables and compete on site during off season shows. I believe it will also be critical for our bid for the World Equestrian ames.
Why does the hotel need to be 5 stories? While the hotel is five stories at its maximum point the hotel has been designed to be an attractive architectural land mar . In order to maximi e green space and equestrian activity we went vertical instead of hori ontal. The allowable height in Wellington is three stories. The design of the hotel steps down from floors to floors to floors giving it a layered feel ma ing it less than of box structure. The fifth floor is only of the total area of the hotel so on average it is about stories which is one story above what is allowed. gain, the height is important in order to get the number of rooms and to achieve the green space and equestrian competition areas.
Why don't you use the commercial property across the street and put the hotel there? ur strategy entails bringing more equestrian businesses and jobs to Wellington . That site is approved for commercial professional and offices. t this time we thin the expansion of the season, increase in number and types of events, increased awareness of Wellington, along with county and state incentives can elevate Wellington for a potential site for a corporate headquarters or a regional office for an equestrian targeted enterprise. In combination with the great infrastructure of Wellington schools, recreational facilities, lifestyle, quality home inventory, it leverages the strengths of the two complementary worlds. Further, it is critical that the hotel is a resort hotel with many amenities spa, banquet, conference facilities, stables, pool etc. with beautiful grounds that will support many types of activities that directly lin ed to the equestrian activity. With a strong World Class product we can attract many equestrian events during the non-winter periods.
There is empty commercial space in Wellington. Why should we create more? early all the tenants will be locating in Equestrian Village because it is an equestrian venue. They will be
economic base businesses in that they will be associated with the equestrian industry and participants. This property is already oned Commercial ecreation with a floor to area ratio F of . This acre property has an existing entitlement for almost , sqft of commercial activity. espite the misleading information that is flowing around. The pure commercial elements are only , feet split between restaurant , , retail , , and office , , all small numbers. The increase in F that is being requested to is intended to be more consistent with what is allowed throughout the equestrian preserve. The balance of the Sqft is supporting the hotel and equestrian pavilions that are located within the property. lot of the sqft beyond what is necessary to support the Condo hotel is going to be used for spas, banquet facilities, conference rooms, and hospitality areas that will support the events.
It is my understanding that this approval would set the stage for 8 more projects on commercial recreation zoned land within the preserve, is that true? That is incorrect. This is a one of a ind property and project. II projects of this scale would need to be approved by the Village council. The village staff is defining conditions or requirements that would preclude most if not all of the other commercial recreation properties from this type of development. ur partnership is committed to a strong Wellington that has the necessary components to ma e it viable in the long term . We do not believe it should be overdeveloped.
Won't this destroy the rural equestrian lifestyle? There are close to acres in the equestrian overlay oning district E . This property represents acres or less than one-one hundredth of a percent of the acreage. It is ideally located on the orthern-most border which is on the fringe of the preserve. In fact, it is only one of a handful of equestrian properties that lie to the north of Pierson road as Pierson road is typically viewed as the orthern boundary the eastern most boundary is th street . This project will contribute to the preservation of the lifestyle in that it will create more interest and
demand for the community, local farms and housing ma ing it more durable and long lasting. There are hundreds of equestrian communities in the country, many of them flailing, but there is only one Wellington and it is strengthening. The ey differentiator is the commercial equestrian elements with their hubs of activity polo, hunter jumper, dressage that draw people to the community.
How does your Vision Benefit Wellington? We believe that we are just scraping the surface of the opportunity in Wellington. The goal of this project is to not necessarily to ma e the winter season busier but rather to provide a platform to ma e the fall and spring months stronger. Executing on this vision will provide for the following benefits
• Provides hundreds of critical short term construction jobs. • Provides Wellington a strong base to develop the very important dressage mar et. • evelops hundreds of long term full time jobs in all areas of the industry horse shows,
hospitality, lodging, administration, equestrian support, specialty retail . • Elevates the real estate mar et which enhances the tax base that supports community
services. • educes seasonality which strengthens and supports local businesses. • Creates a common gathering spot to engage the community. • Firmly establishes Wellington as the number one equestrian destination in the world.
How does WEP and Wellington's equestrian industry? How will the partners both expand and preserve the equestrian lifestyle for years to come?
We believe Wellington is poised for a new level of success which is focused on integration with the community.
• Increase the level of participation in direct equestrian activity of Wellington children, adults, and Seniors through after school programs, clinics, summer camps, adult riding programs, scholarships, and seniors programs.
• Create a public interscholastic riding program in wellington that will be a model for the country. • Increase spectator particpation in saturday night lights and the dressage activities at the new
Stadium property. • Increase the level of annual fund raising for the FTI consulting reat Charity Challenge to
million dollars per year within five years. • Increase the equestrian season to - months by bringing in new equestrisan disciplines and new
events which will create full time jobs and opportunites for Wellington residents. • Create training programs for Wellington residents who want to see employment in the equestrian
industry. • Create an indoor arena to support a broader range of equestrian and community events. • Create a World class equestrian village that is the gateway to the equestrian domain that
provides a central architectural feature in the form of a world class hotel and a ccorresponding equestrian pia a that would be a gathering inviting for the community.
• Secure the World Equestrian ames in
Town Crier Opinion- December 30th, 2011 on Equestrian Village
By Mark Bellissimo
Life is about perspective, overcoming adversity, learning through experience, challenging convention and ma ing a difference by pursuing your dreams and goals- whether those goals are social, spiritual, financial, personal, or a combination of all four. What makes America great is the "can do" attitude that is pervasive in society. It is a place where there are opportunities for all regardless of birthright, resources or current standing. The underdog is respected and honored. It is a place where the spirit of entrepreneurship has created many great people, places, companies and industries. It ta es hard wor and courage to pursue your dreams because life is full of critics who want nothing more than to maintain the status quo. Many times the status quo is "preserved" by those who are quite happy with what they have, are indifferent to those who want something different, or who just fear change. merica is also a place where people have the right to disagree. ften there is no right or wrong answer, only better or worse answers. owever, more often than not, doing nothing is the worst answer.
The Wellington Equestrian Preservation lliance WEP recently sent out a mass mailing to an estimated , Wellington homes describing our newly proposed "Equestrian Village" project. I believe it was an extremely disturbing, divisive, misguided and dishonest mailing.
Six-time lympian obert over issued a passionate response that included the following statement, "The [WEPA] newsletter was full of angry terms that incite- terms li e scheming, speculation, declining home values, crime, uncertainty, anxiety, insecurity, increased danger to horses, noise, traffic congestion, lac of green space, the list goes on. Then I read about the highrise condominiums, a mall, a fairgrounds and an V par . It was a negative, intentionally inaccurate, full of exaggeration, fear-mongering campaign only meant to once again scare and disrupt this community that I call home and love." To see obert s full response, go to www.doversworld.com and clic on the ec.
8 blog. To see WEPA's newsletter, go to www.wellingtonalliance.com.) obert also mentions in his blog that WEP s current objections are a in to
the campaign waged by Lou Jacobs and Mason Phelps in 2006: "I watched in horror five years ago as the same players ... and the Old Guard brutalized Mark
ellissimo, his family and the motives of Wellington Equestrian Partners in blogs and in the local and national equestrian media. In their eyes, he would destroy the event, the facility, the fabric of the community, our equestrian way of life. Through eerily similar scare tactics and attac s, they declared that it was the 'beginning of the end' of Wellington."
espite the barrage of negative press, ugly tactics and the smear campaign, obert was correct y partners, oger Smith and ennis ammerman, and I
chose not to defend ourselves in . The issue was not about us but about the future of Wellington. In our opinion, we were not yet directly relevant to the community, so to the outside world it was just about a bunch of "rich people fighting with each other, so who cares."
t the time, my oldest child, att, then ,was concerned and inquired why I was not defending myself against the false accusations. I said to him and my three other children that you never let people bully you into a fight. I conveyed that we were going to ta e the high road and that they should always remember, a great plan, a positive message, passion, conviction, the right resources and a strong team will always prevail over indifference, negativity, lawyers, lobbyists, political connections and all the money in the world. What is important is not what you say or how you react, but what you do that counts. The lasting and most important memory is the outcome and the destination, not the process and the journey.
ur expanded partnership, the Wellington Equestrian Partners, then laid out an ambitious plan and vision to transform Wellington from a temporary, sevenwee hunter-jumper horse show and private polo club community targeted at the wealthy into a permanent, full, multidisciplinary equestrian industry that benefits the entire community for the entire year. The unifying theme was the love of the horse. It is a vision intended to be inclusive, not exclusive, for equestrians and village residents ali e and be accessible to anyone regardless of his or her financial resources or status.
fter a five-year, million turnaround, we prevented the Winter Equestrian Festival from moving from its current location. The newly renovated Palm each International Equestrian Center is now a permanent venue and regarded as one of the finest facilities in the world. There is record rider attendance from all over the world. The season is longer and has a greater impact on local businesses and Palm each County. record number of Wellington residents now feel welcome to attend the events. ur organi ation is responsible for distributing millions of dollars to more than local charities. We have launched a public school initiative that will begin to ma e the equestrian community relevant and accessible to the children in our community. We are creating a community jobs program that will provide education, access and training for residents who are out of wor and want to pursue the hundreds if not thousands of jobs available within the community. II of this occurred during the most challenging financial climate in our lifetimes.
I am proud of our accomplishments. y family and I are thrilled to call Wellington our home. While it would be easy to stop and ta e a deep breath, we believe the Equestrian Village project is the single most important economic engine to enhance Wellington's equestrian economy and position it to have a greater impact across the community while still maintaining Wellington's unique character. The most significant benefit is the ability to create jobs from critical short-term construction jobs to long-term, full-time jobs in all areas of the industry horse shows, hospitality, lodging, administration, equestrian support and
specialty retail . It will elevate the real-estate mar et, which enhances the tax base that supports community services reduce the seasonality, which strengthens and supports local businesses create a common gathering spot to engage, educate and entertain the community and position Wellington to attract more world-class equestrian events such as the World Equestrian ames,
thus firmly establishing Wellington as the o. equestrian destination in the world .
nee again, we stand at a crossroad WEP states that our project would create uncertainty, anxiety and insecurity. Its members want you to imagine a project with crime, traffic, high-rises, shopping malls, Vs, noise, declining home values and increased danger to horses. Instead, lets challenge them once again.
Lets all imagine a project that drives a robust economic industry for Wellington and the county. Lets imagine a place with children and families playing, seniors relaxing and local residents and riders from around the world competing in diverse and accessible events. Lets imagine hundreds of industry professionals and businesses coming to Wellington for trade shows, industry conferences and new events. Lets imagine many of those businesses returning or moving their businesses here -creating more jobs. Lets imagine an industry that provides hundreds of jobs in a world where people are struggling to find jobs, pay their mortgages to eep their homes, feed their families, educate their children and maintain a decent quality of life.
Lets imagine a world where a couple of large estate owners with their lobbyists and lawyers do not dictate policy to protect their mega-compounds and access roads at the expense of the community. If you have a job, a great estate and tremendous wealth, the status quo is great. When you are a high school senior without a job, or a father who has been laid off and cannot support his family, the status quo is not such a nice place. WEP was wrong in , and they are even more wrong in
In my heart, I believe we can and will reshape this community into the most unique place in the world that benefits a much broader group of people. Unfortunately, that requ ires change, and change is extremely hard for most people, especially those people who are vested in what they now, feel and touch . dd a level of uncertainty in the outcome of that change, and it creates fear. That fear then evolves into resistance and criticism of the un nown and then criticism of the individuals who are pursuing the change. This is true for most exploration and invention in history.
The fact is, vis ions do not come with majority support, and the execution of the vision is fi lled with setbac s in the form of mista es, failures and shortcomings that provide fodder for the critics. In response to these setbac s and critics, you can either quit, adapt or get stronger, smarter and overcome. If the critics prevail, the status quo prevails, and the corresponding change and opportunities die. ou will never now what could have been. our willingness to persevere directly correlates to your fundamental belief in the outcome, your resources and your team.
This is the message I have ingrained in my ch ildren, because the ultimate fact is, critics do not write great novels, produce great movies, build great buildings, invent cures, lead companies, bui ld products or change society. They critici e. Criticism is important to improve a process, but it should not be the lasting legacy.
Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To:
Cc: Subject: Attachments:
Dear Council
Mark Bellissimo <[email protected]> Tuesday, January 03, 2012 6:08 AM Darell Bowen; Matthew Willhite; Dr. Carmine Priore; Howard K. Coates Jr.; Anne Gerwig; Kathy Adler Paul Schofield Town Crier- Equestrian village Q a A -Opinion Editorial Piece Equestrian village QA_07.pdf; EquestrianVillageOpEd.pdf; EquestrianVillage_Concept.jpg
Please find attached the fo llowing; an Op-ed piece that I wrote that was in this week's town crier, a detailed Q and A on the Equestrian Village project that tries to address the major issues. a conceptual rendering of the equestrian village project
I rea lize there is a great deal of misinformation out there, I am hopefu l that this will give you a better perspective of what we are trying to accomplish. Please forward to any constituents that you believe at least will benefit from learning about our perspective.
I am confident that this represents a great opportunity for this community.
Regards, Mark
From: Mark Bellissimo [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2012 9:44AM To: 'Dean Turney' Subject: FW: Equestrian village QA_07
Cou ld you forward these to lizbeth today.
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Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Attachments:
Dean Turney <[email protected] > Monday, January 02, 2012 10:35 AM David Flinchum; Robert Basehart; Olga Prieto; Jennifer Fritz Paul Schofield; JeffS. Kurtz Equestrian Village Information Program Equestrian village QA_07.pdf; EquestrianVillageOpEd.pdf
TO: Wellington Planning & Zoning Staff
From: Dean Turney
I want to advise that we have a vigorous public information program in place. Attached are two items that appear in the current edition of the Town Crier.
We have also been meeting with various interested persons and groups including homeowners in Polo Isle. We will be making a presentation to the Palm Beach Polo & Country Club Council of (HOA) Presidents this coming Friday.
Unfortunately there has been a coordinated effort by a group to generate opposition to Equestrian Village through misinformation and innuendo. For instance, they have constantly attempted to spread the rumor that work has started on the entire proposed Equestrian Village project prior to approvals. Below is a recent example of this effort that was posted on Facebook on Thursday. Below that are other examples of their efforts to generate opposition.
Please feel free to refer people who are seeking information or have concerns to:
Dean Turney 561-594-5579 landline 561-346-5497 cell
Wellington Equestrian Preservation Alliance
Check. Out what's happening at Pierson and Southshore. Mountains of dirt and debris. Dozens of dump trucks, bulldozers and earth movers. Has the destruction of the Equestrian Preserve begun?
·, , , , , · · Share · J '. .t(• ·(
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Mason Phelps
http: I I phelpsmed iagrou p. comlviewa rticle. php ?id = 6257
Community concerned about impacts from proposed Equestrian Village
ohelpsmediagroup.com
'Neili!~gton, FL Decembei' 29, 2011 7 raffic, noise, odors and com}:etition to existing businesses. Weilington residents who have !earned about tl<e pmposed Equestrian Vilic;ge planned fo1· the old polo st3diurn grounds believe the pmject will decimate p;-operty values, clog a! ready conge5ted roads an ...
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o Bob Margolis likes this.
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Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To: Subject:
U [email protected] Wednesday, February 01, 2012 2:50 PM Dr. Carmine Priore Mallet Hill
Dear Carmine, I have been watching the live web cam today. I have not heard any reference to Mallet Hill and the traffic impact this will have at the corner of Pierson & South Shore. I have requested to talk with Mark Bellissimo and ended up talking with Dean Turney who works with Mark. Now let me say that most of the residents of Mallet Hill are in favor of the Equestrian aspects of this plan. What everyone has expressed to me is the density and the size of the hotel. I have said that Mr. Bellissimo should be required to address the concerns of the residents of every residential development in close proximity. I would definitely consider Mallet Hill in close proximity. I look forward to speaking with you on this development. I will be in Wellington next Thrusday. Will you please call me for an appointment. I respectfully request that you table all matters at this time for further in depth evaluation.
Respectfully yours Linda Juckette, 3155 Mallet Hill Court
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Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To: Subject: Attachments:
Best regards,
Paul Schofield, Manager Wellington, FL Phone(561}791-4000 Fax (561) 791-4045
Paul Schofield Thursday, February 02, 2012 8:33 AM David Flinchum FW: Mallet Hill imageOOl.png
From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, February 01, 2012 2:50 PM To: Dr. Carmine Priore Subj ect: Mallet Hill
Dear Carmine, I have been watching the live web cam today. I have not heard any reference to Mallet Hill and the traffic impact this will have at the corner of Pierson & South Shore. I have requested to talk with Mark Bellissimo and ended up talking with Dean Turney who works with Mark. Now let me say that most of the residents of Mallet Hill are in favor of the Equestrian aspects of this plan. What everyone has expressed to me is the density and the size of the hotel. I have said that Mr. Bellissimo should be required to address the concerns of the residents of every residential development in close proximity. I would definitely consider Mallet Hill in close proximity. I look forward to speaking with you on this development. I will be in Wellington next Thrusday. Will you please call me for an appointment. I respectfully request that you table all matters at this time for further in depth evaluation.
Respectfully yours Linda Juckette, 3155 Mallet Hill Court
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Paul Schofield
From: John Bonde Sent: To:
Thursday, February 23, 2012 9:58 AM Paul Schofield
Subject: FW: Gov't Affairs Attachments: CANDIDATE FORUM MARCH 2012_PBPOST QTR.pdf
FYI- via Government Affairs Committee of PWCC.
John
From: Scott Brown [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2012 9:56 AM To: Gina Rascati; [email protected]; 'AI Malefatto'; 'Alan Zech'; Brian Fischer; 'Burt Smith'; 'Geoff Sluggett'; 'Gina Rascati'; 'James DuBois'; John Bonde; John Darnell; Laurel Bennett; 'Mike O'Dell'; Priore, Carmine; 'Dean Turney' Cc: [email protected] Subject: RE: Gov't Affairs
Attached is the ad for the forums which wi ll run in the post .
From: Gina Rascati [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2012 9:48 AM To: [email protected]; 'AI Malefatto'; 'Alan Zech'; Brian Fischer; 'Burt Smith'; 'Geoff Sluggett'; 'Gina Rascati'; 'James DuBois'; John Bonde; John Darnell; Laurel Bennett; 'Mike O'Dell'; Priore, Carmine; 'Dean Turney' Cc: Scott Brown Subject: Gov't Affairs
Dear Committee,
In preparation for the candidate forums that the Chamber is hosting in March, could you please suggest a couple of questions for the moderator? Also, please mark your calendars, the forums are :
Wellington, Thursday March 1st, 7-9 p.m. Wellington Village Hall Greenacres, Tuesday March 6th, 7-9 p.m. Greenacres Village Hall Royal Palm Beach, Wednesday, March 7th, 7-9 Royal Palm Beach Village Hall in conjunction with Leaque of Women Voters
Don't forget our next Gov't Affairs Committee Meeting is a week from TODAY, Thursday March 1st at 8:00a.m. at the Chamber, see you there.
Gina K. Rascati, SRA State-certified residential real estate appraiser #379
Residential Appraisal Specialists, Inc. 15778 Glen Willow Lane Wellington, FL 33414 561-798-5498 work 561-798-5398 fax
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Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To: Subject:
Palm Beach County Republican Party <[email protected]> Thursday, March 29, 2012 11:42 AM Dr. Carmine Priore Palm Beach County GOP News Wire, March 29, 2012
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Contents:
1. The GOP Needs You! 2. Town Hall Events with Cong. Allen West,
April3 3. Join Senator Marco Rubio for the Grand
Opening of the Palm Beach Regional Office, April4
4. St. Lucie County Lincoln Day Dinner with Allen West, April 14
5. Broward Republican Party Lincoln Day Dinner, May 5
6. How to Volunteer for the 2012 RNC Convention in Tampa
7. Candidate News and Events 8. Club Events 9. Other Events
1. THE GOP NEEDS YOU!
Republican Party of Florida needs volunteers for a weekend walk. If you are interested and available, please let us know by emailing [email protected] or calling headquarters at 561-686-1616.
Republican Party of Palm Beach County needs volunteers to help with the following events:
"Tee them Up" Golf Tournament Friday, June 1, 2012 at Frenchman's Reserve. Organizational meeting Friday, March 30th at 4:30PM- ER Bradley's, Downtown WPB
Summer LobsterFest, contact headquarters at
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Contents:
1. The GOP Needs You! 2. Town Hall Events with Cong.
Allen West, April 3 3. Join Senator Marco Rubio for
the Grand Opening of the Palm Beach Regional Office, April4
4. St. Lucie County Lincoln Day Dinner with Allen West, April 14
5. Broward Republican Party Lincoh1 Day Dinner, May 5
6. How to Volunteer for the 2012 RNC Convention in Tampa
7. Candidate News and Events 8. Club Events 9. Other Events
LIMITED SEATING to the first 300 to RSVP by April3rd
Dinner: $100 per person
VIP Package*: $200 per Person (Includes VIP Reception & Photograph with Congressman West, and Dinner VIP Reception includes an Open Bar & passed Hors d'oeuvres)
Please contact the REC Headquarters at: 772-249-0460 or Judy Jurewicz at: 772-873-9296
5. BROW ARD REPUBLICAN PARTY LINCOLN DAY DINNER, MAY 5
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Republican Party of Broward County
2012 Lincoln Day Di1mer
Evening of Saturday, May 5, 2012
Attorney General PAM BONDI
Chief Financial Officer JEFF ATWATER
Congressman ALLEN WEST
More details to follow
: www. browardgop.org
Political advertisement paid for and approved by the Broward Republican Executive Committee. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.
6. HOW TO VOLUNTEER AT THE 2012 RNC CONVENTION IN TAMPA
Many of you have expressed interest in volunteering for the 2012 Republican National Convention that will be held in Tampa on August 27-30, 2012.
The convention is anticipated to require over 10,000 ' volunteers. The conventions are organized by the
Republican Convention Host Committee which is completely separate from the RNC, RPOF and the PBCGOP.
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Therefore, questions about the convention, volunteer forms, receipt of volunteer forms, volunteer opportunities and applications, etc. must be directed to the Host Committee via the www.2012tampa.com website or the committee via e-mail at info@20 12tampa.corn.
NOTE: If you already ernailed [email protected] to sign up as an interested volunteer, we have your information and you do not need to submit the above referenced form.
7. CANDIDATE NEWS AND EVENTS
RECEPTION FOR MARYL YNN MAGAR FOR FLORIDA HOUSE, MARCH 29
Political advertisement paid for and approved by MaryLynn Magar, Republican, for State Representative, District 82.
The purchase of a ticket for, or a contribution to, the campaign fundraiser is a contribution to the campaign ofMaryLynn Magar. Contributions are not deductible for Federal income tax purposes.
RECEPTION FOR THE HON. PETE HOEKSTRA IN BOCA RATON, MARCH 29
Please Join American Principles PAC, Robin Bemstein, Todd Gensheimer, Hon. Adam Rasner, Diane Hoekstra, Eytan Laor, Christopher Ruddy
For a meet and greet reception honoring
THE HONORABLE PETE HOEKSTRA
1 Candidate for United States Senate
Former Congressman (R-MI)
Served House Budget Committee
Chaired the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence
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Thursday, March 29, 2012
12:30 pm- 2:30pm
Via Mizner Country Club (formerly Country Club at Boca Raton)
6200 Boca Del Mar Drive, Boca Raton, FL 33433
Kindly reply or direct questions to: Eytan Laor • 561.315.9700 • [email protected]
' Paid for by Hoekstra for Senate
RECEPTION FOR THE HON. PETE HOEKSTRA IN PALM BEACH, MARCH 29
Please Join American Principles PAC, Robin Bernstein, Gay Hart Gaines, Eytan Laor, Christopher Ruddy
For a meet and greet reception honoring
THE HONORABLE PETE HOEKSTRA
Candidate for United States Senate
Former Congressman (R-MI)
Served House Budget Committee
Chaired the Pennanent Select Committee on
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Intelligence
Thursday, March 29, 2012
5:00pm-7:00pm
The Breakers
One South County Road
Palm Beach, Florida 33480
Kindly reply or direct questions to: Eytan Laor • 561.315.9700 • [email protected]
Paid for by Hoekstra for Senate
SUPPORT HAL V ALECHE AT THE WINTER EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL, MARCH 31
Come and view the final event of the Winter Equestrian Festival and join us in supporting County Commission candidate Hal V aleche!
Saturday, March 31
6:00-7:30 pm
Palm Beach International Equestrian Center
14440 Pierson Road
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Tiki Hut - First Floor
Wellington, Florida 33401
http:/ /www.equestriansport.comJindex.cfin
Those who wish to stay and watch the FTI $500,000 Grand Prix Finale are welcome to do so. The Grand Prix starts at 8:00. A minimum can1paign contribution of $100 is being asked. The first four who contribute $500 to the Hal Valeche Campaign will receive seating in the International Club with complimentary buffet and beverages.
Please make check(s) payable to: "Adam Rasner for US House"
P.O. Box 276093
Boca Raton, FL 33427-6093
www.adamhasner.com
The maximum an individual may contribute is $5,000 ($2,500 Primary, $2,500 General) ($10,000 per couple). Adam Rasner for US House cannot accept corporate checks or contributions from foreign nationals who lack pe1manent resident status, or from federal contractors or labor unions.
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Contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.
Paid for by Adam Rasner for US House
AMERO FOR COUNTY COMMISSION- DIST. 1
Local Business Owner Files to Campaign for County Commission, District 1
Elect Dan Amero for County Commissioner
For more information about Dan Amero please call 561-262-8609 or e-mail [email protected]
Political adveliisement paid for and approved by Dan Amero, Republican, Candidate for Palm Beach County Commission, District 1
HANLEY FOR COUNTY COMMISSION- DIST. 1
Please fill out a petition for Laura Hanley for Palm Beach County Commission, District 1 (attached) and mail back to the campaign.
PAUL TOCKER FOR PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISRICT 5
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Dear Fellow REC Members,
Thank you to those who retumed your petitions at our March 14th meeting. It was much appreciated.
I have been going to events, meeting people and obtaining petitions. Last week, we turned in 223 to the Supervisor of Elections. If all are approved, we still need 9 51 by May 7th.
I NEED YOUR HELP AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THIS IS EASY TO DO.
Please print 5 or more petitions from the enclosed pdf and have family, friends and neighbors, who are registered voters in Palm Beach County, complete the petition form. You can either mail them to:
Paul Tocker Campaign
Post Office Box 7791
Delray Beach. Florida 33482
or you can give them to me personally. I plan on ' attending the April REC meeting, or I can arrange to
pick them up. I can be reached by telephone at 561.235.0846 or by email at [email protected].
People are looking for a change away from the Democrats tax and spend philosophies.
Their policies caused a 30 million dollar budget
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deficit in Palm Beach County.
Their policies have caused a sluggish economy. Corruption and ethics issues abound. Shame on Palm Beach County for being nicknamed "the corruption county."
I can provide a :fresh face and real change for voters in November. As a former Assistant Schenectady County Attorney and City of Schenectady Deputy Corporation Council, I have the experience and background to effect real change NOW.
To be there for you, I need YOUR help in gathering petitions so I may become YOUR candidate.
PLEASE BECOME INVOLVED.
Anticipating your help and cooperation, I thank you.
Sincerely,
Paul Tocker
8. CLUB EVENTS
YOUNG REPUBLICANS MARCH HAPPY HOUR AND FORUM WITH SEN. ELLYN BOGDANOFF, MARCH 29
March Happy Hour and Forum: "Branches of Power: State vs. Federal"
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Thursday, March 29
5:30pm Happy Hour (Appetizers will be provided)
6:00pm to 7:00pm Forum
Nick & Johnnie's Restaurant & Bar
207 Royal Poinciana Way, Palm Beach, FL 33480
We are thrilled to have Senator Ellyn Setnor Bogdanoff as our guest speaker.
Senator Ellyn Setnor Bogdanoff(R- Fort Lauderdale) began her public service when she was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in a special election in January 2004. She was selected in 2006 to become a member of the leadership team as the Majority Whip, and in 2008 as chair of the House Finance and Tax Council. In November 2010, Senator Bogdanoff was elected to fill the unexpired term of President Jeff Atwater, who vacated the District 25 Senate seat to become the CFO.
Senator Bogdanoff earned a B.S. in Risk Management from the University of Florida and a J.D. from Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad Law School. Since being elected, Senator Bogdanoff has been recognized by the Broward Partnership for the Homeless for her legislative advocacy and was also honored by Florida's Children First, Covenant House Florida, and the Florida Association of School Administrators for her commitment to education and children's issues.
This year, Senator Bogdanoff was named the Florida Chamber of Commerce's most valuable legislator for
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her leadership on pro-business issues during the 2011 Legislative Session.
Please join us and bring a friend!!!
2012 Membership Dues: Join the Palm Beach County YR's today for $25! The cost helps us pay for events, conventions, and volunteer opportunities. You can either give to any officer at the next meeting or event or pay through PayPal! We really need and appreciate your support!
Do you have a YR shirt? We are now selling tee shirts to show your YR pride, $20 per shirt (M & L shirts only). They are available at any event or meeting. They make for great gifts!! ! !
Palm Beach Young Republicans
www.pbcyr.com
REPUBLICAN CLUB OF THE NORTHERN PALM BEACHES, LEGISLATIVE UPDATE WITH SEN. ELLYN BOGDANOFF AND REP. PAT ROONEY, APRIL 2
The Republican Club of the Northern Palm Beaches invites you to an evening with our two very special guests discussing
Florida's 2012 Legislative Recap
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Sen. Ellyn Bogdanoff, District 25
Rep. Pat Rooney, District 83
Monday, April2, 2012
5:30P.M.
Frenchmen's Reserve Country Club
Appetizers on the Club * Cash Bar
Admission: $10 Members I $15 Guests
Annual Membership: $25 or $40 per couple
Checks payable to Republican Club of the Northern Palm Beaches
The Palm Beach Republican Club is hosting Laura Ingraham on Wednesday, Aplil4, 2012. Location is the Colony Pavilion in Palm Beach. Reception, which begins at 5:30pm, lecture, book signing ofMs. Ingraham's OfThee I Zing, one beverage ticket, appetizers, valet parking are inclusive for $95 per person. A limited seating private dinner with Ms. Ingraham immediately follows for $100. Additional books are available at $22.50 each. Please visit our web site at palmbeachrepublicanclub.com to pay with a credit card or mail your check to The Palm Beach Republican Club, PO Box 2622, Palm Beach, FL 33480. Call (561)-346-7787 or email
REPUBLICAN CLUB OF CENTRAL PALM BEACH COUNTY MEETING WITH SEN. GEORGE LeMIEUX, APRIL 5
Please invite all RepubVcans you know to join us at this important meeting Thursday, April 5th, 6:00 p.m.
Continuing the series of meetings to hear all of the ' candidates for U.S. Senate, our speaker will be former
Senator George LeMieux, who was appointed to finish the term of Sen. Mmiinez when he resigned in 2009.
In September we heard from Mike McCalister who covered a wide scope of issues and he clearly gave his positions on each. Adam Basner spoke to us but has since dropped out of the Senate race to run for the congressional seat being vacated by Allen West. Craig Miller dropped out of the race to run for a House seat as well. Connie Mack is invited to speak at the May or June meeting. Then, having met and discussed the issues with each one we will be ready to make an
, informed choice of who to support with our time, money and vote in the August primary election.
The Republican Club of Central Palm Beach County meets on the first Thursday of each month at the Atlantis Country Club, 190 Atlantis Drive in the City of Atlantis (see directions below), from 6 PM to about 8 PM. After a social period the meeting begins at 6:30PM. $12 members, $15 non-members which includes a drink from the bar and nice hors d'oeuvres. Annual dues to join the club: $25.
The better informed we Republicans are the more
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successful we can be in making our party more effective on issues crucial to our freedoms. We send tllis invitation all over to let everyone know that all Republicans are welcome to attend any regular meeting without making reservations -just show up. Snowbirds welcome!
Directions: Exit off ofl-95 is Lantana Rd --go west to Congress Ave and turn north (right) --immediately get in the left lane and turn onto Atlantis Blvd. at the light --that is the main entrance to the city. Go past the guard house to the STOP sign and turn right onto Orange Tree Drive. The restaurant/club house is on your left at a sharp curve. There is also an entrance off of Military Tr.
Call with any questions or if you need help with the directions: club president Tami Donnally 561- 602-3777 or program chairman George Blumel561-543-4971. Bring a fellow Repub and enjoy!
, ADAM HASNER IN PALM BEACH! APRIL 9
The Palm Beach Republican Club is hosting Former Florida House Majority Leader Adam Rasner, current candidate for United States Congress CD #22 on Monday, April9, 2012. Reception at The Colony Pavilion in Palm Beach, begins at 5:30pm.
Reception, lecture, one beverage ticket, appetizers and valet parking are included in the $50 for members and $55 for non-members fee. Please visit our web site palmbeachrepublicanclub.com for more information or to pay with credit card. To mail your check send to Palm Beach Republican Club, PO BOx 2622, Palm Beach, FL 33480. Call (561)-346-7787 or email [email protected] with questions.
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DELRAY BEACH REPUBLICAN CLUB LUNCHEON WITH CONG. ALLEN WEST, APRIL 12
The Delray Beach Republican Club Luncheon
Thursday April 12, 2012
Holiday Inn Highland Beach
2809 South Ocean Bld.
Highland Beach 33487
Social11 AM
Meeting starts at 11:30 AM
SPEAKER: Congressman Allen West
Choices for lunch: Angus Steak Panini OR Chicken Cobb Salad
Cost for lunch is $25.00
RSVP Deadline: Friday April 6th
RSVP your lunch choice to Sandy Alexsander at 213-
BOYNTON BEACH REPUBLICAN CLUB LUNCHEON MEETING WITH SEN. GEORGE LeMIEUX, APRIL 17
Boynton Beach Republican Luncheon Meeting
· April 1 7 @ 11 :00 AM
Westchester Country Club
12250 Westchester Club Drive
(Jog Road south of Woolbright, tum east for entrance at Pipers Glen Road light)
Speaker: George LeMieux, Candidate for U.S. Senate
There will be a lively discussion on political events with Q & A to follow.
Menu: Cold entree -- Caesar Salad with grilled shrin1p. Hot entree -- Pan seared chicken breast with marsala sauce. Beverage and dessert
Cost $25
RSVP: Carole 561 731 2764 by April12
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REPUBLICAN CLUB OF THE PALM BEACHES ANNE ROBERTS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Apply TODAY for the 2012 Anne Roberts Memorial Scholarship
The Republican Club of the Palm Beaches' Scholarship was named after a long-standing and active member of our Club, Anne Roberts.
In 2011, there were four scholarships awarded:
John Clark attending Florida State University
Jason Ferrara attending University of Alabama
Shirley Schaff attending Northwood University
Kimberly Twoey attending Palm Beach Atlantic University
The Anne Roberts Memorial Scholarship is available to any Republican undergraduate or graduate student seeking to further their education. Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or above and plan to attend an accredited college. Applicants must be Palm Beach County residents and registered (or pre-registered under 18 years of age) Republicans. Current members may refer applicants for this scholarship. The deadline for this application is May 2. The winner will receive $500 to be sent to the school they will attend. Award will be presented at the monthly luncheon May 23, 2012.
PALM BEACH COUNTY PATRIOTIC COMMUNITY CHORUS AUDITIONING NEW SINGERS
The Palm Beach County Patriotic Community Chorus is currently auditioning new singers. If you love to sing about the country we all love, then give us a call!
We are a community chorus with a heart and passion to sing about our love for the good old USA.
We rehearse on Saturdays at 3:00p.m. at EBC Ministries, 400 Jackson A venue, Greenacres.
Call Tami Donnally at 561-602-3777 for more information about joining, or about booking the Chorus to sing at your event.
FLORIDA FAMILY ACTION, CHAMPION THE VOTE, AND FAITH & FREEDOM COALITION, "IGNITE TO ACTION- ORGANIZING FLORIDA TO TAKE BACK AMERICA," MARCH29
Florida Family Action, Champion The Vote, and Faith & Freedom Coalition Present:
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"IGNITE TO ACTION--Organizing Florida to Take Back America"
Speaker: John Sternberger, Orlando lawyer and FFA President
Attend this major grassroots meeting, learn about the opening of the Palm Beach County Florida Family Action office, and meet its newly hired field director. He will be training conservatives to use state-of-theart tools and strategies to register and mobilize Floridians to vote.
Complimentary light meal of appetizers will be ' served.
Thursday, March 29, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
McKenna's Place, 5283 Lake Worth Road
RSVP required: Go to www.flfamily.org --or call 407-251-5130
Hosted by John and Virginia Brooks, Faith & Freedom Coalition
COME CELEBRATE SOUTH FLORIDA 912'S 3RD ANNIVERSARY!!!
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Allen West, Acorn whistle blower Anita Moncrief and many other candidates and public figures will be attending our exciting event.
We will be having entertainment from Ivory Jim and Loreen, and the Patriotic Singers.
Our Master of Ceremonies will be Dennis Lipp.
When: Saturday, March 31st from lpm- 4pm
Where: McKenna's Place
5283 Lake Worth Road
Green Acres, FL 33464
561-357-5100
It's hard to believe that it's been 3 years! That first meeting at the 'old' McKenna's location was awesome and we've done so much since then. We marched on Washington, stood on street comers, gathered food and supplies for Haiti and flood victims. We attended county commission meetings and created and signed petitions. We helped get the Inspector General and Ethics Ordinances implemented in Palm Beach County and continue to rally for smaller government, personal responsibility and lower taxes.
We have our work cut out for us in 2012- but this will be a time to celebrate with friends and family. We're still working to confi1m our speakers and entertainment, but save the date and plan to join us for a fun afternoon! Check back often as we'll be adding more details.
McKenna's full menu will be available for
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purchase. It will be first come first serve. Please bring your family and enjoy a meal with us.
This will also be a fund-raiser for our upcoming 2012 election education events- so we're suggesting a $5 donation which gets you a raffle ticket for the drawing for a Patriot Pack.
T- Shirts will be on sale for $15, there will be a 50/50 and other exciting things. Our Charity of the Month will be New Beginnings Food Pantry. Please bring dry goods and get an extra raffle ticket for free!
Help spread the word. Print or send the 912 Birthday Flyer to your friends and family!
Please go to SouthFlorida912.org to RSVP, for more information and updates, or email [email protected] if you have specific questions.
BREAKING THE CHAINS: AN EXODUS STORY, MARCH 31 AND APRIL 1
Performances are Saturday, March 31 at 7:00pm and Sunday, April1 at 3:00pm.
Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at http://www.eventbrite.com/event/2633066573/efblike
Synopsis: Slavery has not been entirely abolished. , Millions in the U.S. and around the globe are enslaved
in human trafficking today. Men, women, and children are forced to work under cruel masters, much like the Hebrews in Egypt. Join us for a dramatic
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retelling of one of the most miraculous stories of deliverance- the Israelites' journey out of slavery in Egypt. You'll also meet present -day characters as they explore the Passover story in an unexpected setting and uncover two tales of modem-day slavery. Enjoy song, dance, and a poignant portrayal of freedom as ancient and contemporary worlds collide!
Partial proceeds to benefit Unto the Least International, a nonprofit that has made notable impact in the fight against human trafficking.
For more information about Ayts Chayim Messianic Synagogue, please visit www.acmsboca.org
PALM BEACH COUNTY TEA PARTY UPCOMING EVENTS
Hello Friends and Fellow Patriots,
We hope that you can join us for our slate of April chapter meetings with the excellent speakers that we've scheduled ... then come to the best ever Tax
' Day Tea Party on April 15th. Here are the details:
Monday, April 2nd Jupiter/Palm Beach Gardens Chapter Dinner Meeting with keynote speaker Mark Wohlschlegel, discussing "Energy and Climate Realities."
Time: Doors open at 5:30pm, buffet begins at 6pm, · meeting starts at 7pm
Buffet Cost: $15 per person (tax and gratuity included); speaker meeting is free
Location: Abacoa Golf Club
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For more information and to RSVP, click here.
Tuesday, April3rd Boca Raton Chapter Dinner Meeting with keynote speaker Ron MeN eil, candidate for US Senate.
Time: Doors open 5:30pm. Buffet at 6pm. Meeting starts at 7pm
Buffet Cost: $15 per person (tax and gratuity included); speaker meeting is free
Location: Boca Greens Country Club
For more information and to RSVP, click here.
Monday, April 9th Wellington Chapter Dinner Meeting with keynote speaker Mark Hoch, political director of the Palm Beach Republican Party who will speak to districting, demographic research, voter fraud, and the need for poll watching.
Time: Doors open 5:30pm. Buffet at 6pm. Meeting starts at 7pm
Buffet Cost: $15 per person (tax and gratuity included); speaker meeting is free
Location: Binks Forest Golf Club
For more information or to RSVP click here
Sunday, April 15th, Tax Day Tea Party
In addition, we have the best ever Tax Day Tea Party on April 15th. Our speaker lineup is headed up by Congressman Allen West and Fox News commentator, Dick Morris. We will also learn from Anita MonCrief about her experiences working for ACORN and ultimately serving as a whistleblower. Dan Mangru from Fox Business will also talk to us about the major business issues of the day. Roberto
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Alonzo, a Cuban who served as a freedom fighter in Venezuela before fleeing to the US will also discuss his insights as to where our country is headed. We will also hear from Florida state representatives Pat Rooney and Mark Pafford. Here are the details:
The Tax Day Tea Party will be a family affair at the beautiful new Wellington Amphitheater that holds 5000 people and great parking. Besides food, beverages, music and an excellent lineup of speakers, there is a very large, state of the art playground for children and activities such as face painting and builda-bear.
Time: Doors will open 1:30pm. Bring your chairs and blankets! The program will open with Lou Galterio singing the National Anthem and amazing music by the amazing Palm Beach band, LeVeL and guest singer, Brie Goldsobel. Our speakers will be focused on celebrating our republic and our freedom as well as letting us know what needs to be accomplished in the coming months.
For more information click here
To check out our band, LeVel, click here.
Saturday, March 31st: The SF912 3rd Anniversary Celebration. Our sister organization, the South Florida 912, is planning a big event to celebrate their third anniversary. It will be a family event at McKenna's Place in Green Acres. For more information click here
Yours in Hope and Action,
Pam Wohlschlegel
Co-founder, Director, and County Coordinator
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Palm Beach County Tea Party
Florida State Coordinator for the Tea Party Patriots
The Palm Beach County Tea Party is about bringing together concerned citizens to learn, to make a statement, and to effect real change! Visit our website at www.palmbeachcountyteaparty.org
ECONOMIC COUNCIL OF PALM BEACH COUNTY, INC. PRESENTS A LECTURE WITH DAVID M. WALKER, APRIL 12
You are cordially invited to attend the
1 "Comeback America Initiative: Keeping America Great" with David M. Walker
Presentation with questions and answer session and reception to follow.
Thursday, April12, 2012
4:00 -6:00p.m.
Palm Beach County Convention Center
Room2AB
650 Okeechobee Boulevard
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
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Graciously underwritten by Steve Klingel and NCCI Holdings, Inc.
There is no charge to attend but seating is limited and reservations are required.
We are pleased to share some exciting news. Please note on your calendar now a special reception featuring David M. Walker, the former Comptroller General of the United States and head ofthe U.S. Govemment Accountability Office (GAO), bestselling author, and frequent national media commentator.
Mr. Walker will appear at a special event organized by the Economic Council to discuss the Comeback America Initiative (CAl) and their vision of keeping the American dream alive for future generations while focusing on the core values of transformation, integrity and results. Given the current debate about the federal deficit reaching a record high and the need for budget reforms, this should prove to be a timely opportunity to hear directly from a Washington insider.
Mr. Walker is cmrently the Founder, President and CEO of the Comeback America Initiative (CAl). In this capacity he leads CAl's effmis to promote fiscal responsibility and sustainability by engaging the public and assisting key policymakers on a nonpartisan basis to help achieve solutions to America's federal, state and local fiscal imbalances. He previously served as the first President and CEO of the Peter G. Peterson Foundation.
To leam more about CAl, (click here). All activities are non-partisan in nature and designed to make govemment more future focused, results oriented,
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successful, efficient, equitable and sustainable. This includes steps designed to transform government to increase transparency and accountability in connection with key areas of ineffectiveness, inequity and fiscal inesponsibility.
If you are interested in attending this event, please contact Maria Woodson at
MWoodson(a),EconomicCouncilPBC.org or (561) 684-1551, ext. 221.
Paid for and authorized by Republican Party of I Palm Beach County
Attachments
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523.25 KB
Laura Hanley Petition Form.pdf
Til is message sent to [email protected] by [email protected]·g . Palm Beach County Republ ican Pa1iy 1555 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd, Suite 210 West Palm Beach, Florida 33401 -230 1
Unsubscribe 1 Update Profile/Emai l Address 1 Forward To A Friend
Attachments: Fwd: Equestrian Forum Announced .. .TUESDAY .. .JULY 31ST .... 6PM EquestForumMissionl.docx; A TTOOOOl..htm
FYI
MARK YOUR CALENDARS .... SUPPORT WELLINGTON mL Y 31
----- Original Message ----From: Dean Turney To: undisclosed recipients: Sent: Wednesday, July 25, 2012 1:48 PM Subject: Equestrian Forum Announced
Dear Interested Persons,
A group including Jack Mancini and Gaye Scarpa is creating an equestrian organization to provide a voice for people who are involved in or support Wellington's equestrian industry. The Equestrian Forum invites both equestrians and non-equestrians to become members.
An inaugural meeting is being held:
Tuesday, July 31 6:00p.m. Hunt Club at Polo West
To help provide an estimate of the number of people attending you are asked to rsvp to: equestrian [email protected] .
Attached is the announcement of the formation of the Equestrian Forum and its Mission Statement.
Below is a statement:
The equestrian industry in Wellington is at a pivotal stage. A majority on the council that was elected in March has undertaken an agenda to diminish Wellington's equestrian industry. An attempt was made to revoke approvals of our flagship venue and event, the showgrounds at the Palm Beach International Center that hosts WEF. The council majority successfully chased away the possibility of a WEG bid. And unfortunately the majority was very successful in revoking all village approvals for the new derby and dressage venue. Wellington councilman Howard Coates (an attorney and friend of equestrian sport) described at a meeting that the new venue is now legally unusable
42
unless special permits are issued by the very same hostile council majority that revoked its master plan ..
So of immediate concern is the 2013 dressage season. An organized and immediate effort is needed to convince this council to allow a season. It is in their hands.
We also need an organized voice to protect the long-term health of equestrian sport. The forum will promote Wellington's equestrian industry so that its accessibility and beneficial impacts are available to many. it will also hold informational meetings, social events and other activities.
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Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To: Subject: Attachments:
Linda,
Paul Schofield Thursday, July 26, 2012 7:27 PM Linda Mcintosh; Kathy Adler; Awilda Rodriguez Fwd: Equestrian Forum Announced ... TUESDAY .. .JULY 31ST .... 6PM EquestForumMissionl.docx; A TTOOOOl..htm
Will you please put this in Cotmcil Transmittals.
Thanks,
Paul Schofield I Village Manager 112300 ForestHill Blvd I Wellington, FL 334141561-791-40001561-753-2541 pauls@wellingtonfl .gov I www.wellingtonfl.gov
MARK YOUR CALENDARS .... SUPPORT WELLINGTON JULY 31
-----Original Message----From: Dean Turney To: undisclosed recipients: Sent: Wednesday, July 25, 2012 1:48PM Subject: Equestrian Forum Announced
Dear Interested Persons,
A group including Jack Mancini and Gaye Scarpa is creating an equestrian organization to provide a voice for people who are involved in or support Wellington's equestrian industry. The Equestrian Forum invites both equestrians and non-equestrians to become members.
An inaugural meeting is being held:
Tuesday, July 31 6:00p.m. Hunt Club at Polo West
To help provide an estimate of the number of people attending you are asked to rsvp to: [email protected].
Attached is the announcement of the formation of the Equestrian Forum and its Mission Statement.
Below is a statement:
44
The equestrian industry in Wellington is at a pivotal stage. A majority on the council that was elected in March has undertaken an agenda to diminish Wellington's equestrian industry. An attempt was made to revoke approvals of our flagship venue and event, the showgrounds at the Palm Beach International Center that hosts WEF. The council majority successfully chased away the possibility of a WEG bid. And unfortunately the majority was very successful in revoking all village approvals for the new derby and dressage venue. Wellington councilman Howard Coates (an attorney and friend of equestrian sport) described at a meeting that the new venue is now legally unusable unless special permits are issued by the very same hostile council majority that revoked its master plan ..
So of immediate concern is the 2013 dressage season. An organized and immediate effort is needed to convince this council to allow a season. It is in their hands.
We also need an organized voice to protect the long-term health of equestrian sport. The forum will promote Wellington's equestrian industry so that its accessibility and beneficial impacts are available to many. it will also hold informational meetings, social events and other activities.
45
Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To:
Subject: Attachments:
Kathy Adler Monday, July 30, 2012 7:23 AM
Robert Margolis; Howard K. Coates Jr.; Matthew Willhite; Anne Gerwig; John Greene FW: Equestrian Forum Announced ... TUESDAY .. .JULY 31ST .... 6PM EquestForumMissionl.docx; A TTOOOOl..htm; imageOOl.jpg
Mayo r and Counci l,
Pau l asked that the emai l below be forwarded to each of you.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS .... SUPPORT WELLINGTON JULY 31
----- Original Message ----From: Dean Turney To: und isclosed recipients: Sent: Wednesday, July 25, 2012 1:48 PM Subject: Equestrian Forum Announced
Dear Interested Persons,
A group including Jack Mancini and Gaye Scarpa is creating an equestrian organization to provide a voice for people who are involved in or support Wellington's equestrian industry. The Equestrian Forum invites both equestrians and non-equestrians to become members.
An inaugural meeting is being held:
Tuesday, July 31 6:00p.m. Hunt Club at Polo West
To help provide an estimate of the number of people attending you are asked to rsvp to: [email protected].
46
Attached is the announcement of the formation of the Equestrian Forum and its Mission Statement.
Below is a statement:
The equestrian industry in Wellington is at a pivotal stage. A majority on the council that was elected in March has undertaken an agenda to diminish Wellington's equestrian industry. An attempt was made to revoke approvals of our flagship venue and event, the showgrounds at the Palm Beach International Center that hosts WEF. The council majority successfully chased away the possibility of a WEG bid. And unfortunately the majority was very successful in revoking all village approvals for the new derby and dressage venue. Wellington councilman Howard Coates (an attorney and friend of equestrian sport) described at a meeting that the new venue is now legally unusable unless special permits are issued by the very same hostile council majority that revoked its master plan ..
So of immediate concern is the 2013 dressage season. An organized and immediate effort is needed to convince this council to allow a season. It is in their hands.
We also need an organized voice to protect the long-term health of equestrian sport. The forum will promote Wellington's equestrian industry so that its accessibility and beneficial impacts are available to many. it will also hold informational meetings, social events and other activities.
47
Paul Schofield
From: Michael O'Dell Sent: To:
Thursday, August 23, 2012 9:28 AM Francine Ramaglia; Paul Schofield
Subject: FW: Equestrian Forum of Wellington - September lOth meeting
FYI Please advise if you would like me to attend, thanks
Michael O'Dell Project Director, Equestrian Master Plan 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington, Florida 33414 [email protected] (561) 753-2532
From: Equestrian Forum of Wellington [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 8:16AM To: Michael O'Dell Cc: Kathy Mailloux; Terri Kane; Gaye Scarpa; Alexander Zilo; Dean Turney Subject: Equestrian Forum of Wellington - September 10th meeting
Mike:
The Equestrian Forum of Wellington is a recently formed group devoted to enhancing and protecting Wellington's equestrian industry. We have a little over 300 members.
We are very interested in learning more about the Equestrian Master Plan and issues related thereto. We understand you are project manager we would very much appreciate you giving a presentation to the Forum about the project.
Please invite any other staff members you believe are appropriate.
In addition to the long-term Master Plan we are also interested in any short and mid-term capital projects and related issues.
We are holding our next meeting, for general membership, on September 10th at 7:00 PM at Utopia at Polo West.
Please let me know if this works for you and if you have any questions. Please advise of any equipment needs for your presentation. Also if you wish to distribute an agenda or any backup material we would be pleased to distribute that via email before hand.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you,
Jack Mancini Equestrian Forum of Wellington
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Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To:
Paul Schofield Thursday, August 23, 2012 9:44AM Michael O'Dell
Subject: Re: Equestrian Forum of Wellington - September lOth meeting
Mike,
I need to run this by Council, as a generalmle, I don't like attending these point of view meetings.
Paul Schofield I Village Manager 112300 Forest Hill Blvd I Wellington, FL 334141561-791-4000 1561-753-2541 [email protected] I www.wellingtonfl.gov
On Aug 23, 2012, at 9:28AM, "Michael O'Dell" <[email protected]> wrote:
FYI Please advise if you would like me to attend, thanks
Michael O'Dell Project Director, Equestrian Master Plan 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington, Florida 33414 [email protected] · (561) 753-2532
From: Equestrian Forum of Wellington [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 8:16AM To: Michael O'Dell Cc: Kathy Mailloux; Terri Kane; Gaye Scarpa; Alexander Zilo; Dean Turney Subject: Equestrian Forum of Wellington - September lOth meeting
Mike:
The Equestrian Forum of Wellington is a recently formed group devoted to enhancing and protecting Wellington's equestrian industry. We have a little over 300 members.
We are very interested in learning more about the Equestrian Master Plan and issues related thereto. We understand you are project manager we would very much appreciate you giving a presentation to the Forum about the project.
Please invite any other staff members you believe are appropriate.
In addition to the long-term Master Plan we are also interested in any short and mid-term capital projects and related issues.
We are holding our next meeting, for general membership, on September lOth at 7:00 PM at Utopia at Polo West.
Please let me know if this works for you and if you have any questions. Please advise of any equipment needs for your presentation. Also if you wish to distribute an agenda or any backup material we would be pleased to distribute that via email before hand.
49
I look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you,
Jack Mancini Equestrian Forum of Wellington
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Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To: Cc:
Francine Ramaglia Thursday, August 23, 2012 10:18 AM Michael O'Dell Paul Schofield
Subject: Re: Equestrian Forum of Wellington - September lOth meeting
Have we met with other groups in a similar fashion???
Francine Ramaglia I Assistant City Manager I City of Wellington 112300 Forest Hill Blvd I Wellington, FL 334141 Tel: 561.791.4110 I Fax: 561.791.4045 I [email protected] I www.wellingtonfl.gov
Sent from my iPhone
On Aug 23, 2012, at 9:28AM, "Michael O'Dell" <[email protected]> wrote:
FYI Please advise if you would like me to attend, thanks
Michael O'Dell Project Director, Equestrian Master Plan 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington, Florida 33414 modell@wellingtonfl. gov (561) 753-2532
From: Equestrian Forum of Wellington [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 8:16AM To: Michael O'Dell Cc: Kathy Mailloux; Terri Kane; Gaye Scarpa; Alexander Zilo; Dean Turney Subject: Equestrian Forum of Wellington- September lOth meeting
Mike:
The Equestrian Forum of Wellington is a recently formed group devoted to enhancing and protecting Wellington's equestrian industry. We have a little over 300 members.
We are very interested in learning more about the Equestrian Master Plan and issues related thereto. We understand you are project manager we would very much appreciate you giving a presentation to the Forum about the project.
Please invite any other staff members you believe are appropriate.
In addition to the long-term Master Plan we are also interested in any short and mid-term capital projects and related issues.
We are holding our next meeting, for general membership, on September lOth at 7:00 PM at Utopia at Polo West.
Please Jet me know if this works for you and if you have any questions. Please advise of any equipment needs for your presentation. Also if you wish to distribute an agenda or any backup material we would be
51
pleased to distribute that via email before hand.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you,
Jack Mancini Equestrian Forum of Wellington
52
Paul Schofield
From: Michael O'Dell Sent: To:
Wednesday, August 29, 2012 11:22 AM Paul Schofield; Francine Ramaglia
Subject: FW: Memo to Forum Members Attachments: EqF Boards & Organizat ions.docx
Pa ul & Francine, over t he last couple of days I have received 2 phone ca lls (Jack Mancini and Dean Turney)rega rding an equestrian mater pla n presentation (update) on September 101
h.
To Francine's point, a presentation with focus group input has been the main reason for meeting with various groups. The meetings stopped in about March of t his year and I continued to fol low up with 3 specific groups, but was advised most if not all possible participants had left for the season, therefore, I stop with my fol low ups in April. I have no issue with attending the meeting and it would be great to present the data report, however it comes 2 days before the EPC meeting on the 121
h .
First- Can I confirm my attendance? Second- Can I provide the data report? Or hold off until after the EPC meeting? The data report, as of today is being finalized for review by management. Third- If the report is not to be released I can provide a updat e of the process schedule, issue to be addressed and topi cs of discussion. Thank you
Michael O'Dell Project Director, Equestrian Master Plan 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington, Florida 33414 [email protected] (561) 753-2532
From: Dean Turney [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, August 29, 2012 8:23AM To: Michael O'Dell Subject: Fw: Memo to Forum Members
Mike,
I've been asked to help arrange and gather information for the Forum's Sept 10 meeting and thus my query to you to confirm your attendance. They are waiting to send a notice.
Also some time next week after things have settled down would like to meet with you. It would be helpful if there is background info to send to people before the meeting.
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FYI: Below and attached is info that was sent yesterday.
Dean Turney 561-839-4001 landline 561-346-5497 cell
----- Forwarded Message ----From: Equestrian Forum of Wellington <[email protected]> Sent: Tue, August 28, 2012 3:16:44 PM Subject: Memo to Forum Members
Dear Equestrian Forum Members,
We wish everyone the best during this weather crisis. Members of the Forum Steering Committee have been coordinating with Councilwoman Anne Gerwig to find dry stalls for those who have barns that are flooded. We plan to have a better coordination system in place for the next storm. We thank Anne.
Our next Equus Bulletin will be coming out in a day or two. Before then we want to provide some information to you and ask some information of you.
First, save the evening of Monday, September lOth for our next membership meeting. We will be discussing the Village's preparation of a Master Plan for the equestrian industry. This issue is of vital importance so please plan to attend.
Second, there is often confusion about the various governmental bodies and private organizations that are involved with or try to influence the Wellington equestrian industry. We thought we'd make an effort at providing a little clarity for you. Attached is an overview of the Village of Wellington boards and the private organizations that are involved with equestrian issues.
Third: We want to hear from you!
Membership to the Equestrian Forum is open to all persons who support the enhancement and protection of the equestrian industry as set forth in our Mission Statement. You can view the Mission Statement on our website or we can send it to you via email.
We would like to get some information and suggestions from our members. We would appreciate your responding to the questions below and sending us your response via return email (equestrian. [email protected] ).
Your Name:
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Florida Street Address:
Phone:
Are you a full time resident of the Wellington area?
- If not, how many months do you spend in this area annually?
How long have you been a full or part time resident of the Wellington area?
What is your involvement in the Equestrian Industry? Indicate all that apply.
Rider/Competitor
Trainer
Horse care
Horse Health
Owner
Sponsor
Equestrian related business or service
Spectator
Other:
What discipline(s) are you interested in or involved with:
Hunter/Jumper
Dressage
Polo
Western
Other:
Are you interested in having social events being hosted by the Forum?
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- If yes do you have suggestions?
Why did you become interested in the Forum? Indicate all that apply.
Concerned about actions of the Wellington Village Council
Want to help the equestrian industry grow
Desire information about the equestrian industry
Want my voice to be heard by the Village government
Social activities
Other:
What equestrian related topics or activities would you like the Forum to pursue for its monthly meetings and forums?
Please indicate any committee involvement that interests you:
Special Event Planning
Membership
Other:
Please provide any additional comments:
Thank you!
Please forward this to your friends and associates you think might be interested in joining. To join all they need do is return the above form to us.
Steering Committee: Gaye Scarpa, Terri Kane, Jack Mancini, Kathy Mailloux, Alexander Zilo
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Paul Schofield
From: Michael O'Dell Sent: To:
Thursday, September 06, 2012 2:33 PM Dean Turney
Cc: Subject:
Paul Schofield; Francine Ramaglia RE: Monday
Dean, I am preparing a power point as we speak. The presentation will be about t he data col lected to date. This data can be utilized to support a master planning process. I am work on a 8-10 min time frame for the presentation. The web site has the maps you are referencing Can you tell me where I am in the agenda?
Michael O'Dell Project Director, Equestrian Master Plan 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington, Florida 33414 modell@wellingtonfl. gov (561) 753-2532
From: Dean Turney [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, September 06, 2012 10:21 AM To: Michael O'Dell Subject: Monday
Mike,
Regarding Monday:
1) Will you be setting up a PowerPoint presentation? 2) About how long will your initial presentation take? 3) Do you have any materials you would like sent beforehand to attendees via email?
Regarding #3, we would like to transmit a map of the Wellington Equestrian Preserve and an overview of the Master Plan.
As I mentioned because of my professional background in growth management and Comprehensive Planning, I'm helping coordinate this portion of Monday's Forum meeting. Thank you.
Dean Turney 561-346-5497 cell
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Paul Schofield
From: Sent: To: Cc:
Dean Turney <[email protected]> Thursday, September 06, 2012 3:36 PM Michael O'Dell
Subject: Paul Schofield; Francine Ramaglia Re: Monday
You're the first substantive item so about 15-20 minutes after start.
Right I have map from website I'm sending.
Sent from my iPhone
On Sep 6, 2012, at 2:33PM, Michael O'Dell <[email protected]> wrote:
Dean, I am preparing a power point as we speak. The presentation will be about the data collected to date. This data can be utilized to support a master planning process. I am work on a 8-10 min time frame for the presentation. The web site has the maps you are referencing Can you tell me where I am in the agenda?
Michael O'Dell Project Director, Equestrian Master Plan 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington, Florida 33414 modell@wellingtonfl. gov (561) 753-2532
From: Dean Turney [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, September 06, 2012 10:21 AM To: Michael O'Dell Subject: Monday
Mike,
Regarding Monday:
1) Will you be setting up a PowerPoint presentation? 2) About how long will your initial presentation take? 3) Do you have any materials you would like sent beforehand to attendees via email?
Regarding #3, we would like to transmit a map of the Wellington Equestrian Preserve and an overview of the Master Plan.
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As I mentioned because of my professional background in growth management and Comprehensive Planning/ I'm helping coordinate this portion of Monday's Forum meeting. Thank you.
Dean Turney 561-346-5497 cell
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Paul Schofield
From:
Sent: To:
Cc:
Subject:
Good afternoon Scott,
I will attend meeting.
Best regards,
Maria Consuela Sanchez, AICP Development Associate
Attached you will find the Agenda for tonight's Econom ic Development Task Force Meeting. I have also included the minutes from June.
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The Economic Development Task Force meeting will be held tonight, Thursday, September 27th, 2012 at 7:00PM. The meeting will be held at:
Greenacres City Hall 5800 Melaleuca Lane Greenacres, FL 33463
If you haven't yet RSVP'd with me, please let me know that you are coming. If you cannot make it and would like to send someone in your place, please let me know. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Scott Brown
Legislative Office & Web Administrator Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce 13901 Southern Blvd. P.O. Box 1062 Loxahatchee Groves, FL 33470 Direct (561) 578-4810 Office (561) 790-6200 Cell (561) 767-2069 Fax (561) 791-2069 www.cpbchamber.com
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Paul Schofield
From: Michael O'Dell Sent: Tuesday, November 13, 2012 12:43 PM To: Subject:
Paul Schofield; Francine Ramaglia; Tim Stillings Wellington Chamber- Equestrian Meeting
Attachments: wellington chamber equestian comm agenda ll-13-12.pdf
To all, the following is a brief recap of the Wellington Chamber- Equestrian Committee- Meeting November 13, 2012 Ms. Gardner was introduced as a guest to the committee. Ms. Gardner indicated that the EPC will continue to review the data report. O'Dell- indicated a joint meeting of the EPC and the Village Council will occur in December 12th at 6:15 PM in the Council Chamber. A draft to the R.V ordinance will be presented to the Village Council at a workshop on November 26th. Ms. Gardner was asked her opinion to the RV issue. Ms. Gardner felt the current LDR's do not properly address the needs for groom's quarters. The current LOR's came for Palm Beach County and the County regulations were intended to limit rentals and this does not apply to Wellington currently. There should be one groom per 3 horses i.e. a 24 stall barn would need 6-8 grooms, with adequate housing for the same. Ms. Gardner was asked and agreed to provide the Chamber with a "white paper" outlining the pro's and con's to this issue. Ms. Gardner was asked to address the Golf Cart issue. Ms. Gardner indicating she had been studying the issue extensively including Mr. Riebe's Report and had some recommendation.
• Would like to see the access road between Greenbrier and Pierson Road opened to traffic specifically Golf Carts
and Cars (Village maintenance site). The side walk would need to be extended as well.
• Proposed that the C-2 canal east side (red trail) become an equestrian roadway for trailers and equestrian
traffic.
• Need traffic access into the rear of Palm Beach Little Ranches.
• Golf Carts need to be separated from horses.
Jack Mancini Provide an overview of the Equestrian Forum, its mission, it's 5 Board member make up and highlighted the issues that they are currently following. The Forum supports proper growth of the EPA, supports the equestrian industry currently and futures venues. Dean Turney has been assisting and guiding the board with regards to governmental processes and procedures. Michael Stone provided an update to tonight's Council meeting, indicating that the courts had dismissed the Jacobs litigation, the master plan requests is to change the use from tennis I polo to equestrian, access to Pierson Road is currently not allowed. This is a traffic and horse access/ egress problem. The hotel has been removed; the site is vested foe 260,000sf of commercial.\
Victor Connor generally read the balance of the agenda (see attached)
Michael O'Dell Project Director 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington, Florida 33414 modell@wellingtonfl. gov (561) 753-2532
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James Poag A.
From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject:
Mr. Poag,
Dean Turney [[email protected]] Tuesday, March 12,2013 1:29PM James Poag A. Mark Bannon E.; Megan Rogers C. Re: C-13-004 R-1
Thank you for your comments.
Did the email go through with the entire 5:36 minute video with Greene and Margolis from the 02-16-13 meeting?
I also sent smaller clips with each of them separately.
I received delivery failure notices (because of attachments exceeding size limits) on all but the email with the Margolis video attachment.
If they did not go through I will try and reduce the size of the files or bring with me on a key drive.
Dean Turney 561-346-5497 cell 561-839-4001 landline
I am in receipt of your response and while I recognize your concerns, I can assure you that the COE is in no way protective of Mayor Margolis or Commissioner Greene. The decisions of the Commission are based solely upon facts and evidence discovered through the investigative process. Citizens who believe that a violation of the Code of Ethics has taken place are entitled to file a complaint without the fear of reprisal. lfyou feel that a violation has occurred, you are encouraged to file your complaint and allow the COE to investigate allegations and render a fair and impatiial determination.
l look forward to meeting with you tomorrow and discussing the details of the complaint tiled against you. If you have any questions or additional concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best Regards,
.James A. Poag Investigato1·
Commission on Ethics Ph 561-233-0722 Fx 561-233-0735
www.palmbeachcountyethics.com
"Hones(y, Integri(y, Character"
From: Dean Turney [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, March 12,2013 12:42 PM To: James Poag A. Subject: C-13-004 R-1
I sent you the below email but it bounced back because the file attachment was too large. I'll try sending the attachment in two separate files.
TO: James Poag
FROM: Dean Turney
This is to confirm our meeting tomorrow, March 13 at 10:00 a.m.
I have reviewed the documentation filed against me but have been unable to identify the complaint. As I've mentioned to you, I suspect the complaint was filed as a result of comments and actions against me by the ruling majority on the Wellington village council. This "Majority" is composed of Mayor Bob Margolis and council members John Greene and Matt Willhite.
I first became aware of a possible complaint against me when I saw blogs posted by followers of the majority that said I was the subject of an ethics violation complaint.
I would like you to be aware of comments made by Margolis and Greene that have gained considerable attention because of their disturbing nature. Attached is a video (wmv file) that contains their comments made at a Wellington Council meeting on Tuesday, February 26, 2012.
As you will hear from the video, Greene says that he is the victim of politically motivated and frivolous ethics complaints. He states that people in the COE office recognize that the COE is being abused for political
2
purposes, and that the COE has apologized to him about politically motivated actions. He has made this same assertion at other times and to the media.
In the video, Margolis addresses the issue of politically motivated and frivolous complaints and states "perjury charges will be filed" against those who have filed them.
Margolis and Greene have repeatedly stated that they have been exonerated by the COE, and now Greene suggests he has a special relationship with the COE- one could construe that the COE is protective of him. Now Margolis is attempting to intimidate those who might have an active complaint against him and those who are contemplating a complaint.
I will be candid. Many people are bothered by all this and are concerned that Margolis and Greene are exempt from ethics laws, and that the COE is an ally ofthe Council Majority.
I do not believe the COE is an ally of the Council Majority. I believe, however, that the COE's leniency has emboldened Margolis, Greene and Willhite to escalate their retaliatory actions against their political enemies. And you can be sure they have been retaliating. I also believe it emboldens them to commit unethical behavior without fear of punishment.
I have documentation that I believe justifies the filing of bona-fide complaints with the COE against Margolis and Greene. And I have filed a public records request with the village that, if complied with fully, will provide additional documentation. But given the situation described herein and especially the comments of Margolis and Greene, I am reluctant to file a complaint.
Sincerely,
Dean Turney
561-346-5497
3
Under Florida law, e-mail addresses are public records. If you do not want your e-mail address released in response to a public records request, do not send electronic mail to this entity. Instead, contact this office by phone or in writing.
4
James Poag A.
From: Sent: To:
Dean Turney [[email protected]] Friday, March 01, 2013 10:04 AM James Poag A
Subject:
That works fine.
Confirmed for your office.
Dean Turney 561-346-5497 cell 561-839-4001 landline
Re: C13-004-Dean Turney
From: James Poag A. <[email protected]> To: Dean Turney <[email protected]> Sent: Fri, March 1, 2013 10:03:34 AM Subject: RE: Cl3-004-Dean Turney
How about lOam on Wednesday, March 13, 2013
James A. Poag Investigator Commission on Ethics Ph 561-233-0722 Fx 561-233-0735
Sent: Friday, March 01, 2013 10:00 AM To: James Poag A. Subject: Re: C13-004-Dean Turney
01<. Anytime during the morning of either Wednesday or Thursday (March 13,14) looks good.
Dean Turney 561-346-5497 cell 561-839-400llandline
1
From: James Poag A. <[email protected]> To: Dean Turney <[email protected]> Sent: Fri, March 1, 2013 9:52:33 AM Subject: RE: C13-004-Dean Turney
Mr. Turney,
Thank you for your prompt response, however, I will be out of the office next week. If possible can we schedule a time
to meet during the week of March 11, 2013. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Best Regards
James A. Poag
Investigator
Commission on Ethics Ph 561-233-0722 Fx 561-233-0735
www.palmbeachcountyethics.com
"Honesty, Integrity, Character"
From: Dean Turney [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, March 01, 2013 9:48AM To: James Poag A. Subject: Re: C13-004-Dean Turney
Mr. Poag,
Thank you for transmitting the complaint. It's not clear to me what the substance of the complaint is but we can discuss
that when we meet.
I have been working on some items to accompany this response but haven't had the time to complete them- primarily editing the videos of two council meetings to a size that can be emailed.
So I'll wait and provide all that in advance of our meeting.
I am available next week at the following start times (I'm assuming one hour for the meeting. Please advise otherwise):
Tuesday, March 6 10:00 a.m. Wednedsay March 7 10:00 a.m, 2:30p.m.
Thursday March 8 10:00 a.m.
2
Thank you.
Dean Turney 561-346-5497 cell 561-839-400llandline
Per our conversation please find attached a copy of the complaint filed with our office. Please review and provide me with some possible dates that we can meet so that I can speak with you directly. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.
Best Regards,
James A. Poag Investigator Commission on Ethics Ph 561-233-0722 Fx 561-233-0735
www.palmbeachcountyethics.com
"Honesty, Integrity, Character"
Under Florida Jaw, e-mail addresses are public records. If you do not want your e-mail address released in response to a public
records request, do not send electronic mail to this entity. Instead, contact this office by phone or in writing.
3
James Poag A.
From: Ethics Sent: To:
Tuesday, February 26, 2013 10:41 AM James Poag A.
Cc: Subject:
James,
I received this email today.
Gina A. Levesque Intake Manager Commission on Ethics Ph 561-233-0736 Fx 561-656-7100
Mark Bannon E. FW: Pending Complaint
www. palm beachcountyethics.com
"Honesty, Integrity, Character"
From: Dean Turney [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, February 26, 2013 9:51 AM To: Ethics Subject: Pending Complaint
TO: Commission on Ethics Staff
FROM: Dean Turney
It is my understanding that an ethics complaint has been filed against me.
I have learned that this complaint is associated with or was driven by a conversation at a Village Council Agenda Review Meeting held on January 07, 2013. At this meeting an attempt was made by Councilman John Greene to modify the minutes that described my statements at a previous meeting.
Greene was advised by Village Manager Paul Schofield that the minutes could not be modified other than to accurately describe what was said. Schofield then offered and Greene and Mayor Bob Margolis agreed, to research the issue lobbyist registration relative to me and, as stated by Margolis, to "report back".
(Go to January 07, 2013 Agenda Review video, minutes 9:00-11:00 at www.ci.wellington.fl.us/index.php?option=com content&view=article&id=574&Itemid=629)
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So it appears I have the resources of the Village being used against me on this matter. Further, the apparent complaintent has been using the complaint to try and taint my reputation. Below is an example of a blog-post by Carol Coleman:
Carol Coleman February 16, 2013 at 11 :46 am #
By the way, Mr. Turney has an ethics violation filed against him since he does not sign in as a lobbyist in Wellington, as required, but is
listed as a lobbyist in Palm Beach County
I would appreciate the complaint against me being processed as expeditiously as possible so that I can get this matter and my reputation cleared up. I also have some information that might be of interest to you.
I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.
Thank you.
Dean Turney 561-346-5497 cell 561-839-4001 landline
