Geographically, Stuart is a tiny part of Martin County. But in the minds of most people, it is their name for all of Martin County although it comprises a little over 8 square miles of the county’s 753 square miles. I have been at meetings where people state they live in Stuart, but in reality they live in unincorporated Martin County.  Perhaps this is one of the reasons why there is such animosity toward us from county officials? Instead of working in tandem for the good of all residents, they behave as if Stuart is their competitor.

I have spoken with city commissioners and have been to nearly every commission meeting and workshop in the past year, and they are just as confounded as to why this attitude exists. An example is the latest counter offer proffered by the county to settle the TIF disagreement. (The TIF was explained in some detail in an earlier post.) Suffice it to say the county offer made no sense for two reasons.  First, their offer involved a third party, the gas pipeline company, not a party to the agreement.  And, second, it would cost the county more money than just paying the city what is rightfully owed for no discernable benefit except paying the city less.

There is much that I admire about four of the five present county commissioners. I am a staunch defender of their growth policies and the comp plan amendments. For the most part, I believe that they are truly fiscally conservative. But there is a blind spot when it comes to the City of Stuart. This prejudicial stance is hurting every county resident.

In order for their plan of preserving western Martin County to succeed, it depends on not only preserving the Urban Service Boundary but also on a strong and energetic Stuart. A dynamic city where the residents of Martin and the entire Treasure Coast can come to work, shop and be entertained is to everyone’s benefit. We are not rivals nor is Stuart the bad step child. Working together we can accomplish so much more than expending energy with petty grievances.