by SC Reporter Emilie Alfino
What is it? An ombudsman is a government official or independent person who investigates complaints and helps resolve disputes, often acting as a mediator or advocate. City Council members are seeking to expand that role to include a proactive aspect to the position.
The ombudsman position was introduced by City Manager Dana Souza during the last budget period. It was rejected as unnecessary given budget constraints. The purpose at that time was to have someone who could help citizens navigate the permit process. An ombudsman could deal with challenging permits and resolve issues, helping property owners accelerate their recovery.
The budget proposed at the time was $104,000 including benefits for a full-time, 2080 hours/year employee. Another option now being discussed is a contractor like a land-use attorney or planner at $195/hour for 533 hours/year.
Councilman John Henshaw suggested there might be citizens willing to do that. “Can we get a citizen’s group together, perhaps through a nonprofit?” he said.
“Recovery becomes that much more difficult as time goes on,” said Councilman Richard Johnson. “An ombudsman would reach out proactively, find out where those challenges are. Some of them will be beyond our control. We still have a ways to go. Some of our toughest challenges are before us.”
Councilman Henshaw and Vice Mayor Holly Smith favored using a contractor versus an employee. “I think we need to tread lightly before we go to full-time staff,” Smith said. She stressed that the person has to understand the Sanibel Plan and the Land Development Code.
“I think this is a position we definitely need,” said Councilmember Laura DeBruce. “I would strongly urge us to consider a Sanibel resident. A contracted position is a good idea while we learn more about what is required. We need someone on the island and of the island.”
Smith and Johnson disagreed. “I don’t want to limit it to Sanibel,” Smith said, while Johnson said he wanted to broaden the field, not narrow it. “It doesn’t limit you from looking outside the city,” he said.
Mayor Mike Miller said first and foremost, he would like to proceed and not wait for the budget process.