Minutes of DEC of Walton County, Florida

The Walton County, Florida, Democratic Executive Committee met on August 27, 2009, at the Coastal Branch Library in Santa Rosa Beach.  Jeremy Solomon, Chairman, called the meeting to order at 6:40 pm.  Buz Livingston led the Pledge of Allegiance.  Voting members present fulfilled the necessary number for a quorum.

The Chairman outlined accomplishments of the DEC since its inception in March 2009.  Three Issues Forums identified target issues which we as a group support.  The Candidate Training Forum focused on how to: organize a campaign, determine specific causes to support, develop a finance committee, design a budget and raise money.  At the Small Counties Coalition in June, the Walton County DEC was the largest contingent present, and our members participated in timely seminars offered by the Florida Democratic Party.

The Chairman reported that the Steering/Advisory Committee meeting is next on the agenda.  A major discussion point will be determining and developing precinct organizations.   He said that individuals are expressing interest in running for State and County offices.  Volunteers will be needed for all the races.  Fair District signature forms were available at this meeting for those who haven't signed yet.  Third Party Registration law has changed and the DEC must register with the Supervisor of Elections.  Third Party Registration forms were also available at this meeting.  The State Convention will meet October 9-12 in Orlando, and our DEC has sent its list of delegates.

The Chairman suggested waiving a reading of the Minutes of the prior meeting that had been previously provided to the voting members of the DEC.  There being no corrections or objections, the Minutes were approved and placed in the public record.

The Chairman suggested waiving a reading of the Treasurer's Report that had been previously provided to the voting members of the DEC.  There being no corrections or objections, the Report was approved and placed in the public record.

The Chairman invited status reports from allied clubs.  Three reports were given.

Mary Wolfe reported that the Democratic Women's Club has drawn exceptionally qualified speakers and panels for its monthly meetings.  Several members will be attending the State Convention.

Jane Burns reported that Community Walton has a website: www.cw.org.  Project 211 continues to make steady progress. Project Share, the program that helps needy people with utility payments, is now is in force.  The club needs help with website management and newsletter preparation.

Tom McGhee reported on the continuing process of defining the customary use of beaches.  Thirty potential witnesses with long-time knowledge of beach use were interviewed.  T heir statements supported the position that the beaches from ancient times have been open to everyone without restrictions.  The TDC will ask the BCC to put this issue on their Agenda.

The Chairman advised that a Democratic candidate for the House of Representatives, District 7, is announcing his run for the 2010 race.  He introduced David Pleat, a Destin attorney and business owner, who has declared his candidacy for the Seventh District seat.  Mr. Pleat introduced his wife Amy Perry who is also his law partner.  He then gave a brief history of his life and work.  He is running on a platform of economic growth, environmental preservation, and social responsibility.  He asked for our support and informed that he will be visiting local leaders and citizens throughout the District over the next few months to listen to their concerns about Florida's future.

After Mr. Pleat's address, the Chairman adjourned the meeting at 7:30 pm.

Sylvia Alf, Secretary