Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/215277
Sarasota News Leader November 22, 2013 Page 69 BOARD REMARKS asked that public comments be allowed at the beginning of the board meetings, not just in After the public comments segment con- the afternoon sessions, to allow more time cluded, Robinson reiterated that, during the for citizen participation. morning session, she felt it was important to investigate Ramirez's statement about Referring to the morning incident, Barbetta Enzymedica. "It turned out what was said said, "I would encourage anybody who's here from the podium was not true. … It is a or listening to this … just go back and look at responsibility that we do look into things. I the [video]. The tape speaks for itself. It was a don't regret the fact that I ask questions … civil discussion. It was a factual discussion." and it should be the role of the commission that when there are improprieties brought Then Hines thanked Ramirez for pointing out the difference between general public up," the board acts on them. comments and those offered during a public Robinson also addressed Antunes. "You are hearing. As for his comments that morncorrect that the conversations are not always ing, he added that if a commissioner felt the good with us, that we have people coming facts were different from those a speaker after us many times that are wrong. … It's provided, "and didn't say anything or invesalso our obligation to let folks know what the tigate, then it almost would be tacit on our actual facts are." part to say that fact was accurate. … I apoloRobinson further pointed out that she was gize if my statements were taken for anything the one — about a year and a half ago — who other than that." % Manuel R. Chepote, LUTCF Chepote Insurance Inc. 1300 Main Street • Sarasota, Florida (941) 366-0100 Serving Sarasota & Manatee Counties Auto • Home • Life Renters • Motorcycles Flood • Business • Annuities Financial Services Click for driving directions agents.allstate.com/manuel-r-chepote-sarasota-fl.html