What exactly does Mr. Findell do in a position which did not even exist before he was hired? We have NO development in Lake Helen, and his mission seems to be to discourage anyone wanting to open a business or build homes.

What should be a part time job seems to have morphed into a very highly-paid full-time position, yet no one knows what he does as no one was trained to take over during his six-month hiatus. Consequently, some of the Commissioners nearly fell over themselves to beg him to return, thus breaking a promise made to the voters only a few short months ago.

A full time planner is not necessary in a town the size of Lake Helen, especially when there is NO development. The East Central Florida Regional Planning Council is there assist small towns with a comprehensive plan. The adminstrative duties could be done by a senior clerk or adminstrative assistant.

Mr. Findell's salary plus benefits breaks down to $500 a day. Even the $100 per hour rate charged by some professional planning firms would still be less expensive as they would work far fewer hours on an "as needed" basis.

Do I feel betrayed by the Commission's about face in the employment of Mr. Findell, yes I do and the ballot box is my answer.