Dick Longo
295 Marsh Creek Rd Venice, FL 34292

Dear Friends and Supporters in Venice,

Now that my one-year term on Venice City Council is coming to an end, I want to thank my family, friends, Council colleagues and City staff who have supported me this past year. I did my best to hit the ground running and have a positive impact as I completed the term for a seat that had been vacated. Most of you know, I tried to focus on bringing my previous civic and business experiences to every issue

– proactive and reactive – that came before Council. From budget issues to planning and zoning, we always tried to focus on what was best for all the City residents. Controlling growth, improving water quality, helping existing businesses succeed and attracting new business opportunities are some of the activities we are proud of. As I leave office, I am very happy that Ron Smith has agreed to run for my seat and I am supporting his candidacy with no reservations. “Passing the torch” would have been difficult and painful if someone with Ron’s experience, intelligence, commitment and values had not been ready to take over. Venice has many good people who are interested and involved in public offices but not many have proven their ability to bring people together – citizens, staff and politicians – as Ron has. spent many, many hours at City Hall building relationships that allowed me to immediately work with – not against – City staff, City Councilors and Board members. Ron has that same experience and has put in those same many, many hours. I can leave Council knowing Ron will do his best to support all the people of Venice.

Dick Longo