Commission delays vote on recreation money

TAMPA--Hillsborough County commissioners postponed until February a decision to earmark $40-million for recreation and children's issues.

Commissioner Brian Blair, who championed the idea, had hoped to commit money this morning. But he learned that sales taxes, the source of the $40-million, cannot be earmarked without a public hearing.

Other factors also influenced the postponement. The county's parks department is trying to write a master plan by January. And on Jan. 29, Floridians will vote on a package of property tax breaks that could constrain the revenue the county would need to operate any new parks.

Commissioner Rose Ferlita cast the only vote against the idea, saying it was premature. "We don't know what we're looking at come '08," Ferlita said.

- Bill Coats, Times staff writer

Comments

[Mark Ferguson]

* $40 Million County tax dollars left over from a budget back in August 2007.

* A Public Access TV station denied funding because Commissioners want to abolish Freedom of Speech once and for all.

* A former WWF Pro Wrestler, and current County Commissioner who used tax payers money to build a retaining wall around his home, and the same person who also believes all Muslims should go back to their own country if they do not believe in Christianity.

* 138 County Park, and Library workers laid off so Commissioners will have more money to pay for their Christmas Vacations.

* A Commissioners proposal to build a Stadium in the middle of no where at tax payers expense.

= a fantastic movie script idea.

"How the Hillsborough County Commission stole Christmas!"

Coming this Year near us whether we like it or not......Proving that drama is not just limited to the Gay Community. Watch, and see how the Hillsborough County Commissioners dish out the not so fragrant smelling Yuletide at tax payers expense. Gas masks not included.