Editorials
Sheriff is being blasted unfairly over Hushmouth Flawda
TBO.com
Published: March 21, 2012
It's easy to lob accusations at someone without considering the facts. That's what's happening right now with Highlands County Sheriff Susan Benton and some organizers of the Highway Park street party, and it's a shame. Benton doesn't deserve such criticism.Published: March 21, 2012
Benton is in a difficult situation. She told the county commission that the "Hushmouth Flawda" and Easter concert in Highway Park could not be held because of a lack of proper planning and permitting, and that providing law enforcement services cost taxpayers $14,000 last year.
Critics of Benton on this issue claim that not allowing the party, which attracts at least 3,000 people, is racist. Some have questioned why there's such a large law enforcement presence at the 12 Hours of Sebring but not at this annual event in Highway Park, outside of Lake Placid.
To answer the cost issue, Sebring International Raceway pays for the law enforcement used at the annual races, according to the sheriff's department. Hushmouth Flawda didn't pay for the $14,000 spent to pay 41 deputies who were on hand last year and there was no plan to pay for it this year.
Benton also said that there is not adequate parking, and emergency vehicles would not have been able to access the area if needed. So there's a liability issue as well.
Benton met with organizers and the idea is to properly plan and permit the event next year. That's fair. No one wants to end this annual event, but it's necessary that the organization of such an event be handled appropriately.
Calling Benton racist or whatever is ridiculous. She's not and never has been. Benton works hard to treat everyone in this county as equals. The plans for the big street party require much better planning. It's our hope — and the sheriff's — that this is what happens.
Playing the race card in this instance is out of line.