§ 2-388. Forms.

For the purpose of this division, the following form is one form that may be used by city commissioners and all other city board and committee members. The form also may be distributed with applications for quasi-judicial matters.

"IMPORTANT NOTICE TO CONSTITUENTS FOR QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS

The City of Winter Garden City Commissioners, the Planning and Zoning Commissioners and all City board members and committee members are willing to meet with constituents and others regarding issues on which they will cast future votes. However, it is important for everyone to know that anything relating to a quasi-judicial matter (for example: variances, special exceptions, subdivisions, rezonings, certain comprehensive plan changes and certain other matters for which application may be made under the City Code) that you discuss with commissioners or any board or committee member and any documents or exhibits you might show them must be disclosed at the Public Hearing and be made a part of the record. Under Florida law, if your position is approved by the City Commission or any board or committee of the City, the decision could be challenged by the losing side and possibly overturned by the courts unless the same information is disclosed at the public hearing. Your opponents are entitled to know what you are arguing to the Commission, board or committee so they have a fair chance to refute the arguments. Likewise, you also have the right to know and refute whatever your opponents are arguing. Florida law supports a fair and open debate, and all discussions and other communications relating to quasi-judicial matters must be disclosed fully at the public hearing and be made a part of the record prior to any vote.

Thank you for your interest in this matter. We look forward to your appearance at the public hearing."

(Code 1988, § 2-374)