The Pensacola-Escambia Development Commission met yesterday. I talked with five attendees who have said it was a circus, leading to Commissioner Kevin White walking out of the meeting.
Commissioner Gene Valentino opened the meeting by saying that he and Sam Hall did meet privately and they did discuss PEDC meeting schedules and other PEDC business, but his attorney has advised him that he did not break the Sunshine Laws. This is different from what Councilman Hall told us on May 11:
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“He and I met one time and it wasn’t on PEDC business, absolutely not. He and I have talked about disparaging economic development outside of PEDC.â€
“I heard third hand somewhere he wanted to do away from the PEDC.â€
“I don’t even know what (Gene Valentino’s economic plan) is. I’ve asked him two or three times to at least get a preview and he won’t do that. I’ve even asked him to share if PEDC is part of that plan and he wouldn’t even do that.â€
According to sources, after Valentino made that announcement, he seemed to be agitated and wanted to cover topics the board members had already covered. Commissioner White got frustrated and accused Valentino of just wanting to attack the PEDC and the Chamber. White eventually walked out of the meeting.
Another board member suggested that if Valentino had questions that may it would be best for him to talk with PEDC staff one-on-one. The other PEDC members agreed and finally the meeting got back on to its agenda.
The IN has requested copies of the minutes of the PEDC meeting which will be available on Monday.