Walton County Commissioner Brannon accused of ethics violations

**Alan Osborne** · 04-14-2009, 07:25 PM

Please watch the 10pm edition of the Channel 7 News tonight. They will be airing a story regarding a serious issue brought before the BCC at this afternoon's meeting.

Alan

**Bob Wells** · 04-14-2009, 09:17 PM

Walton Sun already has an article online.

**SHELLY** · 04-15-2009, 12:21 AM

Brilliant! You've got him on the run, now cut him off from the herd and tie him down!

Nice job!

Shel.

.

**TooFarTampa** · 04-15-2009, 12:57 AM

So they just shut down the meeting and left?

That seems rather unusual.

**Rita** · 04-15-2009, 01:30 AM

Originally Posted by FF 2

Walton Sun already has an article online.

got a link?

**Miss Kitty** · 04-15-2009, 05:49 AM

Originally Posted by Rita

got a link?

Commissioner Brannon accused of ethics violation, - WaltonSun.com

WOW.

At the April 14 Walton County Board of County Commission meeting Allan Osborne, a resident of South Walton and former candidate for county commissioner in last year's election, made allegations of ethics violations byDist. 1 Commissioner Scott Brannon.
Osborne presented documentation to the board showing Brannon is a partner in a corporation with C. Wayne Jones. Jones is the sole prioprietor of CWJ Holdings, which owns 70 lots in Driftwood, which were puchased from Rick Olsen dba Northtip Development, the original developer of Driftwood Estates.
Jones is one of the managing members of Freeport Group LLC along with Scott and Ronnie Brannon and Angus "Gus" Andrews.
"I have a problem with this," said Osborne. "The state statute specifies that no officer may participate in any vote in which they may have special gain or loss. On at least two occasions (Brannon) voted on issues pertaining to Driftwood and he is violation of the sunshine laws."
Commission Chair Sara Comander made an attempt to stop Osborne as he presented his case to the commissioners to which Osborne replied, "I am not finished speaking Madam Comander."
County Attorney Mike Burke interrupted Osborne at that point.
"Mr. Osborne you are making allegations here and have overstepped your bounds," Burke said. "You need to take this to the appropriate governing body. This is not the body to address these issues to."
"I didn't spend 20 years fighting for my rights to have them taken away from me," Osborne said. "When the ethics committee contacts you can't say I did not make you aware of what has happened. When you sit on this board you have to follow the laws of the state," Osborne retorted. His comments brought applause from some audience members.
Osborne said he has requested and was granted permission from the Driftwood Home Owners' Association to pursue the charges with the state Ethics Commission. Osborne said he has also spoke to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the FBI.
"I wanted the other board members to be made aware of this," said Osborne.
"This is a miscarriage of justice," Osborne said. "This issue has been tainted for nearly five years now and it's time for the governor to step in."
Osborne has been representing a group of homeowners at the Driftwood subdivision for almost five years. They contend the developer did not follow the approved development plan and the original Development of Regional Impact approved under the Sandestin DRI. This failure has caused the subdivision to be inundated with water during times of heavy rain because of the inadequate storm water management system currently in place.
Osborne has repeatedly asked the BCC to hold the development is not in compliance citing various inconsistencies throughout Driftwood's developmental history. He said because Brannon voted to not uphold the noncompliance, Brannon essentially enriched his business partner, Jones. Had the development been held in non compliance it would have greatly reduced the value of Jones' holdings in Driftwood, which Osborne estimated to have a current tax value of approximately $4.5 million.
Once Osborne concluded his presentation, Comander immediately adjourned the meeting and the commissioners left the room. None of the commissioners could be located for comment after the meeting.

**Here4Good** · 04-15-2009, 06:57 AM

Originally Posted by TooFarTampa

So they just shut down the meeting and left?

That seems rather unusual.

And cowardly.

**Here4Good** · 04-15-2009, 07:28 AM

Actually, WZEP says they did come back:

Walton County Commissioner Meeting Part 2

After the long break and contentious meeting, the commissioners came back into session. Public Works was asked for options at Driftwood Estates, including pumping. Once again, Public Works will bring back a plan.

Sonny Mares of the TDC had appeared earlier to the Board asking for a continuance to Monday, May 11, to consider a resolution requesting a � cent increase to the Tourist Development Tax.

Shirl Williams presented two citizen services issues for a grant and Pan Care. A request for a cost recovery fee was tabled, as were Human Resource issues. Nine issues under Public Works were all quickly approved and four administration issues were quickly approved; including moving the May 12 meeting to May 11.

The county attorney requested a public hearing May 11 to consider a county-wide noise ordinance. The county will take a case concerning Oyster Lake to the state Supreme Court.

Commissioner Pridgen received permission to seek a grant for Natural Bridge Spring and Creek.

I like their comment about Driftwood: "Once again, Public Works will bring back a plan".

**Alan Osborne** · 04-15-2009, 08:12 AM

Originally Posted by Alan Osborne

Please watch the 10pm edition of the Channel 7 News tonight. They will be airing a story regarding a serious issue brought before the BCC at this afternoon's meeting.

Alan

A couple of things are first and foremost. That's not the title I put in my thread. Everyone in this country is innocent until proven guilty. Don't get me wrong I am livid about the whole situation, make no mistake. Give commissioner Brannon a chance to answer, I will. I am just as upset over the failure of a state agency to have full disclosure, identify conflicts of interest and provide enforcement (The DCA), and that is going to be my first ethics complaint. Everybody got focused on Brannon but more serious allegations and appearances were made prior to the paperwork on Brannon was presented. If I had not been cut off Mr. Burke I would have presented evidence on employees of the county who I believed made false statements to the board.

When a commissioner votes he or she does so sometimes on the advice of legal council. Give Commissioner Brannon the chance for his council to review the paperwork and answer.

I am not on a "witch hunt" for Brannon or any other particular individual. It's petty and I don't have time in my life for that. I simply want to fix a system that from where I sit, appears to have lost some checks and balances.

There have been many false statements made over Driftwood in my opinion and the opinion of our homeowners board. The vast majority have been made by people who are not on the board, but who look to get their way even if it means making false statements or a misuse of position. I'm not drawing a bead on a particular person but if ANYBODY did something wrong in this situation, they should step forward now with a plan to bring the development order into FULL COMPLIANCE. I will accept nothing less, I live there.

I take the actions that occured at the BCC meeting last night very seriously and realize that this action is painful for me and the citizens of the county. Employee's of the county and developers, not just elected officials had better understand this. We have come to a time when the citizens will demand transparency in all Govt. accountability. I hope this is the first step for Walton County. I humbly request that all citizens be as active as possible, to ensure constitutional rights are first and foremost the priority of Government at all levels. Mistakes are going to happen, we're humans. Mature adults accept responsibilty for the mistakes they make and correct them. Denial is not a correction. I hope this explains my actions, I'm really kind of sad about the whole situation.
Alan

**MommaMia** · 04-15-2009, 08:14 AM

It's one thing to stand up and present the allegations before the Board that Brannon serves on. It's another to actually file a full complaint with the appropriate ethics authorities. I applaud Alan for his tenacity, but maybe it's now time to "talk softly . . .and carry a big stick."

**TooFarTampa** · 04-15-2009, 08:20 AM

Alan, I am sure it was Kurt who changed the title to reflect what is said in the headline of the story. I am also certain that he did it to be less vague. Since it is your thread, feel free to PM Kurt and suggest how you might like the title to be tweaked.

I do have a question for you, after reading the story. What does Freeport Group LLC actually do? Does it develop in Driftwood? Or does Brannon have a separate business relationship with Jones? It does seem obvious that assisting Jones' bottom line might have a positive impact on Brannon's business dealings with him, but it is hard to make that assessment without knowing what their business relationship actually is.

I don't think it's a good idea to "conduct a trial by Sowal.com," but any additional objective, public information is welcome. I agree that it should be done through the proper channels.

**scooterbug44** · 04-15-2009, 08:39 AM

Way to go Alan!!!

Tip o' the iceberg w/ Brannon IMO - this isn't his first time getting in trouble.

**Andy A** · 04-15-2009, 09:10 AM

They did come back after a break. In fairness to the BCC, it is not unusual for them to break during their sessions and since this was a rather contentious meeting, the Chairman, Sara Comander, obviously felt a break was in order. Some of you who don't attend the meetings need to chill out a little.

**kurt** · 04-15-2009, 09:25 AM

Thread titles are often changed to reflect the content. The idea is to help the reader know what's inside. Yesterday your title was relevant ("check out the news tonight"), although vague. Today it would be unintentionally misleading, since we don't want anyone to think they need to check the news tonight for your issue.

**Smiling JOe** · 04-15-2009, 10:48 AM

Out of curiosity, did I correctly hear that Commissioner Larry Jones was once employed by a major builder in Driftwood Estates, Adams Homes?

**sunspotbaby** · 04-15-2009, 01:17 PM

Originally Posted by Smiling JOe

Out of curiosity, did I correctly hear that Commissioner Larry Jones was once employed by a major builder in Driftwood Estates, Adams Homes?

I know he was part of U-Build-it, don't know about Adams Homes. Is anyone really surprised by this ethics issue with Brannon?

**wrobert** · 04-15-2009, 03:01 PM

Originally Posted by Smiling JOe

Out of curiosity, did I correctly hear that Commissioner Larry Jones was once employed by a major builder in Driftwood Estates, Adams Homes?

He was there job foreman, I think. That is why he has been recusing himself on the Driftwood issue.

**scooterbug44** · 04-15-2009, 03:12 PM

Originally Posted by sunspotbaby

Is anyone really surprised by this ethics issue with Brannon?

No, when I saw the thread title I just wondered if it was more of the same (election issues, financial disclosure statement issues) or if he was getting called out for something new.

**Alan Osborne** · 04-15-2009, 05:15 PM

Originally Posted by kurt

Thread titles are often changed to reflect the content. The idea is to help the reader know what's inside. Yesterday your title was relevant ("check out the news tonight"), although vague. Today it would be unintentionally misleading, since we don't want anyone to think they need to check the news tonight for your issue.

thanks Kurt, I just wanted to know.

**Santiago** · 04-15-2009, 06:01 PM

The most amazing thing about all of this is that Brannon is not smart enough to know that while you are a sitting commissioner, you take cash under the table. You don't become a partner until you leave office.

**sam story** · 04-15-2009, 06:33 PM

They contend the developer did not follow the approved development plan and the original Development of Regional Impact approved under the Sandestin DRI. This failure has caused the subdivision to be inundated with water during times of heavy rain because of the inadequate storm water management system currently in place.
Osborne has repeatedly asked the BCC to hold the development is not in compliance citing various inconsistencies throughout Driftwood's developmental history. He said because Brannon voted to not uphold the noncompliance, Brannon essentially enriched his business partner, Jones. Had the development been held in non compliance it would have greatly reduced the value of Jones' holdings in Driftwood, which Osborne estimated to have a current tax value of approximately $4.5 million.

Mr. Osborne I do applaud and appreciate your effort at creating transparency at all levels of government. In the vein, would you explain your reasoning above. If CWJ Holdings, bought 70 lots from the original developer, then how is CWJ any different from you as an owner? What benefit was conferred upon CWJ that wasn't also conferred upon you? Aren't you both just owners within the same subdivision? Doesn't CWJ benefit more from having the Driftwood brought into compliance? It would seem that a non-flooded Driftwood would be more beneficial to CWJ's property values than a flooded Driftwood. Thanks in advance for the explanation.

Also, could you also explain how any benefit to CWJ would benefit Commissioner Brannon as a member of Freeport Group, LLC? Do you know what Freeport Group, LLC does? Are you saying that when CWJ sales its property in Driftwood, that Mr. Jones, its sole member, then cuts a check to Freeport Group LLC to share his profits with the other members of Freeport Group, LLC? That doesn't make much tax or business sense...? Does it?

I really appreciate any light you can further shed on your grievance stated above.

One final question...if you aren't on a witchhunt and you believe everyone is innocent until proven guilty, then why did you decide to present your claim in a public meeting and to Channel 7 News before a formal investigation could be concluded on the matter? Haven't you already convicted Commissioner Brannon in the eyes of the public prior to the conclusion of any official investigation? Or do you have evidence of a substantial connection between the business of CWJ and Freeport Group that is conclusive?

With Warmest Regards,

Sam Story

**wrobert** · 04-15-2009, 06:40 PM

Originally Posted by sam story

Mr. Osborne I do applaud and appreciate your effort at creating transparency at all levels of government. In the vein, would you explain your reasoning above. If CWJ Holdings, bought 70 lots from the original developer, then how is CWJ any different from you as an owner? What benefit was conferred upon CWJ that wasn't also conferred upon you? Aren't you both just owners within the same subdivision? Doesn't CWJ benefit more from having the Driftwood brought into compliance? It would seem that a non-flooded Driftwood would be more beneficial to CWJ's property values than a flooded Driftwood. Thanks in advance for the explanation.

Also, could you also explain how any benefit to CWJ would benefit Commissioner Brannon as a member of Freeport Group, LLC? Do you know what Freeport Group, LLC does? Are you saying that when CWJ sales its property in Driftwood, that Mr. Jones, its sole member, then cuts a check to Freeport Group LLC to share his profits with the other members of Freeport Group, LLC? That doesn't make much tax or business sense...? Does it?

I really appreciate any light you can further shed on your grievance stated above.

One final question...if you aren't on a witchhunt and you believe everyone is innocent until proven guilty, then why did you decide to present your claim in a public meeting and to Channel 7 News before a formal investigation could be concluded on the matter? Haven't you already convicted Commissioner Brannon in the eyes of the public prior to the conclusion of any official investigation? Or do you have evidence of a substantial connection between the business of CWJ and Freeport Group that is conclusive?

With Warmest Regards,

Sam Story

Here you go, taking all the fun out of this again.

**sam story** · 04-15-2009, 06:52 PM

Here you go, taking all the fun out of this again.

Awww wRobert...this is what makes it fun. Hope the week is treating you well.

Best,

Sam

**Santiago** · 04-15-2009, 08:04 PM

Originally Posted by sam story

Mr. Osborne I do applaud and appreciate your effort at creating transparency at all levels of government. In the vein, would you explain your reasoning above. If CWJ Holdings, bought 70 lots from the original developer, then how is CWJ any different from you as an owner? What benefit was conferred upon CWJ that wasn't also conferred upon you? Aren't you both just owners within the same subdivision? Doesn't CWJ benefit more from having the Driftwood brought into compliance? It would seem that a non-flooded Driftwood would be more beneficial to CWJ's property values than a flooded Driftwood. Thanks in advance for the explanation.

Also, could you also explain how any benefit to CWJ would benefit Commissioner Brannon as a member of Freeport Group, LLC? Do you know what Freeport Group, LLC does? Are you saying that when CWJ sales its property in Driftwood, that Mr. Jones, its sole member, then cuts a check to Freeport Group LLC to share his profits with the other members of Freeport Group, LLC? That doesn't make much tax or business sense...? Does it?

I really appreciate any light you can further shed on your grievance stated above.

One final question...if you aren't on a witchhunt and you believe everyone is innocent until proven guilty, then why did you decide to present your claim in a public meeting and to Channel 7 News before a formal investigation could be concluded on the matter? Haven't you already convicted Commissioner Brannon in the eyes of the public prior to the conclusion of any official investigation? Or do you have evidence of a substantial connection between the business of CWJ and Freeport Group that is conclusive?

With Warmest Regards,

Sam Story

You're right Sam Story, since Brannon does not directly own part of the Driftwood property in question, he would get no benefit from his association with the principal, wink wink. I'm sure that he wouldn't feel any allegience to the principal when voting on the Driftwood matter. Assuming that you are an adult, I'm sure that you can see that this situation smells. As far as the first question, in many cases developers sell lump sums of lots to other developers who in effect, become the defacto developer. This is done for many reasons and is typically part of a quid pro quo arrangement. I doubt that Jones needed 70 lots for a homestead. In fact, if enough research were done, you might find that Olson has purchased in one or more of Jones' developments. I know Alan and understand why he is doing this. He's not a personal friend, partner or anything like that. He's pissed because this is BS. I hope to God that he is only beginning his crusade because speaking for what I believe is a large faction of the county and country, its(corruption has) gotten out of hand.

**Smiling JOe** · 04-15-2009, 08:05 PM

Originally Posted by wrobert

He was there job foreman, I think. That is why he has been recusing himself on the Driftwood issue.

It sure took him long enough to begin recusing himself.

**Smiling JOe** · 04-15-2009, 08:09 PM

I guess not everyone attends the County Commissioner Mtgs. Oh, well. I guess late is better than never. Sorry I missed the last one -- and people say County Gov't is boring. It's better than any prime-time television, at least more entertaining.

**idlewind** · 04-15-2009, 08:16 PM

At least our commissioners are trying to make a living without separating me from more of my tax dollars. ( see Don Amunds in Okaloosa) I think someone should have far more proof than a list of who a commissioner does businesswith before they accuse that commissioner of being a crook. Just because Brannon owns a part of a business along with Jones does not mean Brannon is profiting from Jones' Driftwood deal. This whole thing smells like sour grapes to me from someone who cannot convince the BCC to do what they want. My gosh, by your reasoning my ownership of AIG stock makes me guilty of all this bailout mess. LOLOLOL

**Smiling JOe** · 04-15-2009, 08:21 PM

idlewind, I don't believe a Commissioner has to profit in order from them to recuse him or herself. If I am a Commissioner, and I have a business partner, with ABC, LLC, and that partner has full interest in CDE, LLC, and an issue affecting CDE,LLC is brought before me to vote, by law, I am to recuse myself from the matter.

Just because one case is less offensive than another, it doesn't make it right, does it?

**idlewind** · 04-15-2009, 08:26 PM

Originally Posted by Smiling JOe

idlewind, I don't believe a Commissioner has to profit in order from them to recuse him or herself. If I am a Commissioner, and I have a business partner, with ABC, LLC, and that partner has full interest in CDE, LLC, and an issue affecting CDE,LLC is brought before me to vote, by law, I am to recuse myself from the matter.

Just because one case is less offensive than another, it doesn't make it right, does it?

By that logic no one who is successful or has a large family should be a commissioner because in both cases they will have multiple conflicts. I may be naive, but I would hope someone could see issues for what they are. I guess it is beyond the realm of possibility that the BCC might think that they are right and the Driftwood HOA is wrong based on honest opinions? I guess if someone does not agree with me, then by definition they must be a crook.

**TooFarTampa** · 04-15-2009, 08:33 PM

Originally Posted by idlewind

By that logic no one who is successful or has a large family should be a commissioner because in both cases they will have multiple conflicts. I may be naive, but I would hope someone could see issues for what they are. I guess it is beyond the realm of possibility that the BCC might think that they are right and the Driftwood HOA is wrong based on honest opinions? I guess if someone does not agree with me, then by definition they must be a crook.

The appearance of a conflict of interest is just as bad as an actual conflict of interest. It is one of the reasons we have our Sunshine Laws.

**idlewind** · 04-15-2009, 08:41 PM

Originally Posted by TooFarTampa

The appearance of a conflict of interest is just as bad as an actual conflict of interest. It is one of the reasons we have our Sunshine Laws.

I guess the flip side is that if there is no appearance of illegalities, then we should not worry......wait, isn't that what is going on in Okaloosa County.

We elect people knowing what they bring to the table.

**teamc** · 04-15-2009, 08:56 PM

alan, i am SO impressed with your commitment. i hope you see justice, but in the meantime, keep making people uncomfortable.
i got shivers when i read the description of events.
i'm sorry, but it's scary how the culture of unethical behavior is so pervasive here. they're not even the slightest bit embarrassed! they're indignant in addition to being incompetent and criminal. that's ok. i'm mortified FOR them.

**sam story** · 04-15-2009, 08:57 PM

Originally Posted by Santiago

Assuming that you are an adult, I'm sure that you can see that this situation smells.

Assume nothing...I am not even human.

As the saying goes, correllation is not causation. I fail to see an agency. What smells is the stagnant water in Driftwood that wafts among the CWJ and the Osborne alike.

**Alan Osborne** · 04-15-2009, 08:58 PM

Originally Posted by sam story

Mr. Osborne I do applaud and appreciate your effort at creating transparency at all levels of government. In the vein, would you explain your reasoning above. If CWJ Holdings, bought 70 lots from the original developer, then how is CWJ any different from you as an owner? What benefit was conferred upon CWJ that wasn't also conferred upon you? Aren't you both just owners within the same subdivision? Doesn't CWJ benefit more from having the Driftwood brought into compliance? It would seem that a non-flooded Driftwood would be more beneficial to CWJ's property values than a flooded Driftwood. Thanks in advance for the explanation.

Also, could you also explain how any benefit to CWJ would benefit Commissioner Brannon as a member of Freeport Group, LLC? Do you know what Freeport Group, LLC does? Are you saying that when CWJ sales its property in Driftwood, that Mr. Jones, its sole member, then cuts a check to Freeport Group LLC to share his profits with the other members of Freeport Group, LLC? That doesn't make much tax or business sense...? Does it?

I really appreciate any light you can further shed on your grievance stated above.

One final question...if you aren't on a witchhunt and you believe everyone is innocent until proven guilty, then why did you decide to present your claim in a public meeting and to Channel 7 News before a formal investigation could be concluded on the matter? Haven't you already convicted Commissioner Brannon in the eyes of the public prior to the conclusion of any official investigation? Or do you have evidence of a substantial connection between the business of CWJ and Freeport Group that is conclusive?

With Warmest Regards,

Sam Story

Don't know you Sam but here goes,

1. Never said CWJ Holdings did any thing wrong or Mr Jones.

2. According to the develpmental order, the area where CWJ holdings has lots, is my neighborhoods designated lakes and open area.
My plat was recorded in 1979 and CWJ's part was platted after I bought my House. That's my drainage area according to the master plan.

3. CWJ's lots must become a lake or open area for full compliance. Plat must be abandoned for that to happen.

4. There will never be a non flooded driftwood without this area being returned to its original intent and about 5 million dollars worth of drainage improvements.(Which the county doesn't have)
My part of the neighborhood paid for a multi-million dollar MSBU drainage fix, that part of the neighborhood ruined. (No CWJ or Mr. Jones didn't do it, but I want the developer held responsible.)

Part 2

1. Mr Jones is a partner with Mr. Brannon in the Freeport Group LLC and another LLC. I never said checks were being cut or would be cut to anybody.
But the statute is clear in our opinion on relationships.

Florida Statute
112.3143 Voting conflicts.--
(4) No appointed public officer shall participate in any matter which would inure to the officer's special private gain or loss; which the officer knows would inure to the special private gain or loss of any principal by whom he or she is retained or to the parent organization or subsidiary of a corporate principal by which he or she is retained; or which he or she knows would inure to the special private gain or loss of a relative or business associate of the public officer, without first disclosing the nature of his or her interest in the matter.

Commissioner Brannon did participate in votes that affected the property owned by CWJ holdings. (see the BCC minutes) Is Mr. Jones a business associate of Mr. Brannon? According to the LLC's annual report on Sun Biz, the answer is yes. The benefit is, it will save the interior lot owners a lengthy battle against the developer at our neighborhoods expense. Money does not have anything to do with it. Was it disclosed in the meetings or after the vote in writing?
No, as far as I can tell. What part of shall participate in any Matter is confusing?

Sam, I have spoken to Mr. Brannon and will give him time to answer after talking with his council. If you came to the meeting, I think you'll see I made much more serious allegations aganst a State official and have some more for some county staff. I have offered and been available to talk to any of the commissioners any time outside of the public meeting's but have been basically stonewalled for years about any real answers, so our Board did it the only place left available. The BCC meeting. By the way, I recieved a unamious vote from the 170+ owners who feel Driftwood has been handled improperly by the developer, the County and the State. It's not just me, we're tired of it.

Even if Brannon made a mistake, it's a misdemeanor punishable by a 500 dollar fine as long as he doesn't deny it. It seems the press is worse than the punishment. I have appeared 25+ times before the BCC, they had a fair shot at other solutions. They chose poorly IMO.

Sam, you muddied the waters with things I didn't say at the meeting. Too bad they cut my freedom of speech off with Mr. Brannon as the last subject, it left him in the spotlight when there was so much more written evidence I had regarding other staff that is far worse. I only get about ten minutes per meeting so I'll feed them this pie one 10 minute slice at the time.

Alan

**Alan Osborne** · 04-15-2009, 08:59 PM

Originally Posted by Smiling JOe

Out of curiosity, did I correctly hear that Commissioner Larry Jones was once employed by a major builder in Driftwood Estates, Adams Homes?

Larry has properly recused himself IMO.

**TooFarTampa** · 04-15-2009, 09:03 PM

I find Sunbiz.org to be extremely enlightening and very reliable. I have personally seen people deny business relationships even when a 3-minute records search makes it clear that they are not telling the truth.

Whatever the outcome in this case, I admire anyone willing to pay attention enough to research these issues and, when it appears necessary, file the appropriate complaints.

**teamc** · 04-15-2009, 09:04 PM

Originally Posted by sam story

Assume nothing...I am not even human.

As the saying goes, correllation is not causation. I fail to see an agency. What smells is the stagnant water in Driftwood that wafts among the CWJ and the Osborne alike.

and yet more creepiness.

**Santiago** · 04-15-2009, 09:20 PM

Originally Posted by sam story

Assume nothing...I am not even human.

As the saying goes, correllation is not causation. I fail to see an agency. What smells is the stagnant water in Driftwood that wafts among the CWJ and the Osborne alike.

You've outdone me. I can't argue with that logic.

**scooterbug44** · 04-15-2009, 09:39 PM

Why are people attacking Alan?

There is no secret agenda or vendetta here - he has even taken exception to Brannon being singled out. His goal is for our local government to be honest and for our government's promises to its citizens be honored.

Commissioner Brannon failed to recuse himself from hearings in which he had a clear conflict of interest. Another commissioner who had a potential conflict (or appearance of one) recused himself.

Who thinks that someone who is legally partnered with someone in 2 or more businesses shouldn't recuse themselves when an issue dealing with that person is bought before them?

**Alan Osborne** · 04-15-2009, 10:21 PM

Originally Posted by idlewind

At least our commissioners are trying to make a living without separating me from more of my tax dollars. ( see Don Amunds in Okaloosa) I think someone should have far more proof than a list of who a commissioner does businesswith before they accuse that commissioner of being a crook. Just because Brannon owns a part of a business along with Jones does not mean Brannon is profiting from Jones' Driftwood deal. This whole thing smells like sour grapes to me from someone who cannot convince the BCC to do what they want. My gosh, by your reasoning my ownership of AIG stock makes me guilty of all this bailout mess. LOLOLOL

I know you have supported some of my views, but I accused no one of being a crook. I posted my reply to Sam Story. The connection is clear and I presented the proof. I'm sorry I offended you.
Alan

**Busta Hustle** · 04-16-2009, 07:41 AM

I believe there are new flood zone maps coming out soon. I wonder if the map makers take into account the problems in specific neighborhoods? Will flood insurance from the FEMA be available to residents in DW when the new maps are used or will they have to go to the more expensive pool?
How many more homes will flood in a worst case scenario Cat 4, 3, 2 direct hit on the county? How many law suits will there be from homeowners after a worst case scenario? Fix it now or pay me later?
What about property values? Seems to be more foreclosures in DW than surrounding neighborhoods.

**Smiling JOe** · 04-16-2009, 08:15 AM

good questions Busta Hustle. You could start an entirely new thread regarding FEMA map updates and how the changes may affect owners in all areas.

This is the first that I've heard mention of the new maps. Do you know when the maps are to be updated, and will you keep us posted on that?

**kurt** · 04-16-2009, 08:38 AM

New thread for flood map info - http://www.sowal.com/bb/local-govern...lood-maps.html

**The Watcher** · 04-16-2009, 12:06 PM

Originally Posted by scooterbug44

Why are people attacking Alan?

There is no secret agenda or vendetta here - he has even taken exception to Brannon being singled out. His goal is for our local government to be honest and for our government's promises to its citizens be honored.

Commissioner Brannon failed to recuse himself from hearings in which he had a clear conflict of interest. Another commissioner who had a potential conflict (or appearance of one) recused himself.

Who thinks that someone who is legally partnered with someone in 2 or more businesses shouldn't recuse themselves when an issue dealing with that person is bought before them?

SoWal screwed ourselves in the past election. Where was the voter turn out? I was there in the trenches and I'll tell you, turn out sucked.

I only wish Alan O was put into office. SoWal needs representation from SoWal. I also wish both Alan and Bob could have worked together to put one or the other in office. Their fighting hurt both of them and now we are stuck with this...

The issues in Okaloosa are only the tip of the Iceburg, we have our own "issues" here. People like Alan are to be commended for taking a stand and fighting for their beliefs, regardless if you agree with them or not. GET OFF the Fence, strap on a set of nuts and stand up for something! Anything!

We need to unite for the next election and ensure SoWal has EQUAL Representation. We are slowing getting screwed, it will continue until we stand up and say NO.

I have respect for anyone who takes a stand on an issue, even if I do not agree. As long as the issue has been researched and based on FACT, you have my respect.

be seeing u,

w

**totally** · 04-16-2009, 08:33 PM

Originally Posted by Smiling JOe

good questions Busta Hustle. You could start an entirely new thread regarding FEMA map updates and how the changes may affect owners in all areas.

This is the first that I've heard mention of the new maps. Do you know when the maps are to be updated, and will you keep us posted on that?

The new preliminary flood maps have already been issued by FEMA and the 3 month period to object to them has already passed and they are now in the review phase; the whole process takes about a year before the maps become effective. Most, if not all of Driftwood was already in an AE Flood Zone but some of it actually appears to have been removed from the VE Flood Zone.

**wrobert** · 04-16-2009, 09:58 PM

Originally Posted by scooterbug44

Commissioner Brannon failed to recuse himself from hearings in which he had a clear conflict of interest. Another commissioner who had a potential conflict (or appearance of one) recused himself.

But does that business reach the level requiring recusal? I have always thought that Larry was actually violating the rules because of his recusal. But like the county attorney told someone tonight, it is up to the individual to do what they feel rises up to the standard of the law.

**wrobert** · 04-16-2009, 10:00 PM

Originally Posted by Smiling JOe

It sure took him long enough to begin recusing himself.

I thought he did it at the beginning. I never understood him doing it after he left their employ.

**Smiling JOe** · 04-16-2009, 11:01 PM

Originally Posted by wrobert

I thought he did it at the beginning. I never understood him doing it after he left their employ.

Maybe I'm wrong, but I don't think he had recused himself up to the time when he called for the Sheriff's Deputy to get ready to restrain Mr Osborne for speaking at the public forum in the BCC meeting a while back. Regardless, Mr Osborne says that Comm. Larry Jones is now recusing himself from voting on the issue of Driftwood.

**wrobert** · 04-17-2009, 08:02 AM

Originally Posted by Smiling JOe

Maybe I'm wrong, but I don't think he had recused himself up to the time when he called for the Sheriff's Deputy to get ready to restrain Mr Osborne for speaking at the public forum in the BCC meeting a while back. Regardless, Mr Osborne says that Comm. Larry Jones is now recusing himself from voting on the issue of Driftwood.

Yes he is and to what purpose? He no longer is employed with Adams Homes. He has a legal responsibility to vote, that is his job. If he had a relationship ongoing I could understand. But now, I do not.

**Andy A** · 04-17-2009, 08:49 AM

Originally Posted by wrobert

But does that business reach the level requiring recusal? I have always thought that Larry was actually violating the rules because of his recusal. But like the county attorney told someone tonight, it is up to the individual to do what they feel rises up to the standard of the law.

It has always been my understanding that any government official on any board can recuse him/herself for any reason and they don't necessarily have to say what it is.