The proposed CSC would be funded by a millage rate increase that would raise $7-$8 million annually.

Lindley explained her position in a Facebook comment ( see full comment below) posted on an article by David Lawrence, the retired publisher of the Miami Herald, who cautioned Leon voters about rushing into a CSC referendum.

Lindley wrote, “I can’t abdicate my responsibilities as an elected official in spending tax dollars, no matter how well-meaning the cause, on this very recent proposal with so many unknowns.”

Lindley was addressing the structure of a proposed CSC which would remove spending decisions from elected officials.

Lindley was also critical of the process that resulted in the county staff researching the need for a CSC.

Lindley  wrote, “The county professional staff cannot be charged with doing the research that might “sell” it, but then the county commissioners you elect will have no oversight of appointees’ decisions or, beyond an annual report, no evidence of success. Taxpayers’ views wouldn’t necessarily faze appointees either.”

In her comment, Commissioner Lindley provided her preferred method of addressing the needs of children in our community.

Lindley wrote, “If our commission needs to raise mileage to spend more on children and other social services, that would be a more straightforward approach, with oversight and safeguards against redundancy.”

The Leon County Commission is scheduled to discuss the CSC at their next meeting on May 22nd.