In 2000 about 120 citizens of Cedar Key met for two days to express their hopes for the future of our town. There was a clear consensus that the fishing village atmosphere should be preserved. Presumably that feeling was one of aesthetics and economic interests. The findings of the meeting were formally adopted in October 2000. The Cedar Key Commission appoints a Historical and Architecture Review Board charged with overview of changes in the appearance of structures in Cedar Key. There is particular concern for the integrity of the well-defined Historic District. However, over the past few years there have been several developments that detract from the fishing village atmosphere. This is not a criticism of the Historical and Architecture Review Board, but rather a criticism of the gaping loopholes in the ordinances that it works under. Furthermore, in the past year the City`s sign ordinance has been violated more often than the tide comes in. The bottom line is: Cedar Key is becoming tacky, not quaint. In reaction, the City Commission reviewed the sign ordinance last year and found it inadequate and unenforceable. Plans were made to address the problem in April 2010. That has not happened and more signs have appeared. For lack of enforcement the City has lost revenue as well as fishing village atmosphere. The Cedar Key Area Chamber of Commerce has a stake in protecting the fishing village atmosphere which, along with great seafood restaurants, draws visitors to Cedar Key. Perhaps the Chamber of Commerce can prevail on its members to help reduce sign clutter and garish paint jobs that have become common. Our well-run marina and traditional decor of Second Street attract business. The lively night life of Dock Street may even resemble the free-wheeling early days of our fishing village. Let`s work to keep the fishing village atmosphere. Key West has an image. Are we going in that direction? Please let your City commissioners know what you want for Cedar Key`s future. (Editor`s note: All editorials published by Cedar Key News are reviewed by our Board of Directors, and a majority vote of approval is necessary for publication. We invite guest editorials and letters to the editor, and we suggest they be no longer than 300 words.) | 
