“This is a waste of time, energy and money,” is how Century Councilman Luis Gomez described the council meeting in Century Wednesday, July 5, when northescambia.com’s William Reynolds asked if and where the meeting was properly advertised and it was determined the time was not included in any postings around the town, which according to Reynolds is a violation of the Florida Sunshine Law, Statute Chapter 286, which states a meeting ‘should contain the time and place of the meeting, be posted at least 24 hours in advance of any public meeting, even in emergencies, and such meetings should be noticed in a newspaper of general circulation.’ The law also allows notices to be placed at town hall.
“I’m up to my wit’s end,” said Gomez. “I’ve got something to say whether we adjourn this meeting or not. The town’s business has to go on. Unfortunately, one person comes to destroy and disrupt.”
Town Clerk Leslie Howington knew the error was her responsibility and she clearly accepted blame.
“This is on me,” said Howington.
Councilwoman Dynette Lewis pointed out that the decision needed to be made to move forward or not to. Howington apologized and advised the meeting be uncalled to order, citing that to move forward could possibly be an ethics violation.
“I’m sorry but I’m sick of this,” said Gomez. “Something’s got to be done about you. This is personal, It’s got nothing to do with the town council…...meeting adjourned.”
Gomez referred to Reynolds as ‘Willy’ and expressed his displeasure as everyone present began to leave town hall.
“You don’t do any other town hall the way that you do the town of Century,” said Gomez. “And you’re going to stop doing Century the same way. Go to Flomaton, go to Jay and sit up in there and disrupt. You don’t pull that stop. I’m going to shut you down personally.”
Reynolds asked if Gomez was threatening him.
“No, I’m not threatening you,” said Gomez. “I’m going to shut you down, because it’s what you do, it’s not how you do it, it’s what you do. And you do it on purpose. It’s just plain stupid.”
The next Century Town Council meeting is set for 7 p.m., Tuesday July 18, at Century Town Hall.
