Carnival Cruise ship in Key West, FL. By Worachat Sodsri @ Shutterstock.com
Key West resident and owner of Uva Wine Shoppe, Mark Gambuzza, has written a letter to the elected officials of the state of Florida deciding the fate of cruise ships in the city. He writes:
I am a resident, homeowner, and business owner in Key West. I neither am wealthy or affiliated with a political organization. I use common sense and a respectful approach to others, to guide my decisions. I own a retail store right near the cruise ports. If lucky, I get out on the water twice a year
As a business owner, I am insulted that Representative Roach, who does not live in the Keys, has decided to advocate on my behalf, as a working person in Key West. He has given his ear and support to a few wealthy people, who refuse to take a slight reduction in income, or want to adapt their businesses to the new market of consumer we have that visit Key West I can talk all day about how in the last year, our businesses have thrived/ how the tax revenues prove that to be true/ how the consumer experience has improved and how we can see an even more prosperous future. Where did he acquire his facts for his Bill? From the chamber of commerce or the harbor pilots? I can tell you where he did not get any information. He did not come down to Key West and speak to one business owner. I can guarantee you that.
As a resident, I feel we are obligated to be respectful of the needs of our fellow residents. That we must balance business, tourism and a better quality of life. I also add, that as we do this, we can preserve the integrity of our beautiful waters and protect the business of our residents, that make a living on them
As a first generation American, whose family left Sicily, when a dictatorship style government, made life intolerable to its residents — I am offended that this bill rules out the cornerstone of our democracy – the fairness of the voting process
You are all elected officials. Here is an analogy of what this bill does to our democratic process we just executed. How about if we propose legislation, to overturn your successful election to the seat you hold? This entire Bill and process is now an assault on the democratic way of life, just to appease the lobbyists and political donors with the deepest pockets. This is in direct contrast to what makes our country great, and why my family left everything behind This is shameful and I hope before you all vote, you think of why you ever wanted to serve in public office. Please restore the integrity of democracy and respect the will of our community.
Mark Gambuzza
Uva Wine Shoppe
519 Fleming St.
Key West, FL 33040
305-735-4871
www.uvakeywest.com
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