Name: Pilar TurnerAge: 56How long living in Vero Beach: 7yrs. in County, 5yrs. in City limitsPlace of Birth: Dallas, TexasOccupation: Retired, Project ManagerMarital/Family Status: Married to Al Turner, 2 children: Allison and Matt, 1 grandchild, Kenzie
Please list Civic and Volunteer Leadership Experience including title & position and Organization including dates and locations.
Indian River County Planning and Zoning Commission, 2009 to present
Indian River Taxpayers Association, 2007 to present, Vice-President 2010
City of Vero Beach Finance Commission, 2007-2010
What issues motivated you to run for this office and what do you hope to accomplish during your term?
After 2 years of attending the majority of the City Council meetings I am appalled at the lack of financial analysis to support decision making. This is what has compelled me to run for office. I will bring fiscal responsibility to the Council putting the taxpayers first.
What is your position on the potential sale of the Vero Beach electric utility? If the price and conditions were right, would you support selling? What would keep you from supporting a possible sale?
I support the sale of the electric utility if it is in the best financial interest of the taxpayers of Vero Beach. We must secure FP&L rates and retire all bonds for a sale.
Do you support considering the possibility of merging the city’s water and sewer system with that of the county’s? What factors would you consider in making a determination whether or not such a merger should happen?
The City water and Sewer system is broke, it had a $ 1.3 million deficit last year. There are no reserve funds and little working capital. Major capital investment is required to sustain the system resulting in double-digit rate increases. It is time to investigate partnering with the County to provide a cost efficient water and sewer system for the taxpayers. Any merger must be supported by sound financial analysis to give the ratepayers the best deal.
The city is currently looking for a new City Manager to replace out-going Jim Gabbard. What qualities would you look for in a viable candidate?
The new City Manager should have a strong administrative background with a proven track record of cost effective management.
How do you plan to work with Councilman Heady if elected to the dais?
By assisting Councilman Heady in providing complete transparency in City management.