Old Conversation Sparks New Controversy in Lynn Haven - WMBB News 13 - The Panhandle's News Leader

It all started two weeks ago when Commissioner Roger Schad said residents could not politick during the weekly concerts in the park. Tuesday night, those citizens fired back.

"There is a list of rules at the park and there's nothing there that says there that says someone cant speak from the stage if they so want," said a citizen. "And there is nothing that says people from political parties cant distribute information."

"It is a non-profit entity run by me" said Commissioner Schad. "It is not a city function. The city has no say so in whether I start it or close it. All I have to do is stop having the performances there. That's my decision."

"I kind of resent Commissioner Schad saying that people are giving him money," said Libby Tunnell, also a resident in Lynn Haven. "They are giving their money to the city of Lynn Haven for the concerts, not to him!

"and I think that is what we need to say. That it is given to the city of Lynn Haven. Not to you."

"It is given to the Lynn Haven Summer Music Festival Organization," Commissioner Schad fired back.

"It is given to the city of Lynn Haven," said Tunnell.

Citizens were also upset that the concert series is advertised on a city sign when it is not run by the city.

"I think, Roger, it wasn't what you said. Its where you said it. You said it as your position as a city commissioner and I think that's what she's irritated about," said Lynn Haven resident Bob Schultz. "You shouldn't have done it as a city commissioner. You should have done it outside."

"If you let everybody use it we wouldn't be able to put enough information up to provide it for everybody," said Mayor Walter Kelley.

So, you're ok with letting Mr. Schad's private enterprise to advertise on the sign, but not the Lynn Haven Ledger, is that what you're saying?" said a Lynn Haven Ledger representative.  

Mayor Kelley said the commission would take another look at the controversial issue.