Parker Councilwoman Resigns Due To Florida Form 6 Requirements

PARKER, FL - In recent months, Florida has implemented new requirements for elected officials of municipalities regarding financial disclosure. The introduction of "Form 6" has stirred controversy and led to the resignation of council members across the state.

Resignations Shake Bay County Florida

The impact of the new financial disclosure requirements became evident when Councilwoman Stacie Galbreath resigned Tuesday night, December 19th, at the Parker city council meeting.

“With a very heavy heart and after much reflection and prayer, I am resigning my seat effective December 29th. My decision to step down is out of obligation and respect for the privacy of my family. I have willingly accepted the responsibility of public service and necessary transparency that accompanies that however, the newly required financial disclosure is very highly intrusive and as a small business owner the level of detail required under the new law goes beyond what my husband and I are comfortable with disclosing. Please know that this decision was not easy for me. I have appreciated the opportunity to serve you, and I appreciate your support.” - Stacie Galbreath

Understanding Form 6

Form 6 is a detailed document that requires elected officials to disclose their personal finances. It delves into specific financial details, including bank account balances, 401(k) plans, and personal assets. While financial disclosure is not uncommon for larger cities and towns, the new law primarily targets smaller municipalities. The level of detail required by Form 6 has raised concerns among council members and has been cited as a reason for their resignations.

More Resigned in North Palm Beach Council

Three members of the North Palm Beach Village Council announced their resignations. Darryl Aubrey, who had served on the council for 17 years, was the first to step down. His departure was followed by Mayor David Norris, a veteran of 27 years on the council, and council member Mark Mullinix, who had served for eight years. The resignations shocked the community and brought attention to the controversial nature of the new law. The resignations of council members Norris and Mullinix shed light on the controversy surrounding Form 6. Mayor Norris expressed his disagreement with the new rule, stating that it forced him to disclose personal information he was uncomfortable sharing. As a partner at a law firm, Norris cited professional reasons for his resignation, as the disclosure requirements conflicted with his business obligations. Mullinix, on the other hand, highlighted the excessive nature of the disclosure, mentioning that even his daughter's college fund would need to be included. These sentiments reflect the concerns shared by many elected officials throughout Florida.

Impact on Other Municipalities

These resignations were not isolated incidents. Similar cases have been reported in other Florida municipalities, including Dunnellon, Windermere, St Pete Beach, Longboat Key and Levy County. The stringent financial disclosure requirements have prompted elected officials in these towns to step down from their positions. The widespread impact of the new law has raised questions about its feasibility and the potential consequences it may have on local governance.

The Election Process

With the resignations of council members, cities face the challenge of filling the vacant seats with appointments. These appointments aim to ensure the continuity of governance until the election took place.

The Emotional Toll

The room was filled with shock and sadness when Councilwoman Galbreath made her announcement at the end of the meeting. Start at 19:52 min.

Councilwoman Galbreath expressed her deep disappointment and announced her resignation with tears in her eyes. Serving on the council had been a great honor. However, the new financial disclosure requirements made it impossible for her to continue in the position. Heartfelt farewells underscored the personal impact of the controversial law.

The Form 6 Controversy Continues

The controversy surrounding Form 6 continues to reverberate throughout Florida. The detailed financial disclosure requirements have raised concerns among elected officials, who view them as intrusive and burdensome. The Parker resignation has brought attention to the issue, prompting discussions about the necessity and effectiveness of such stringent disclosure rules. As the election approaches and new council members are elected, the fallout from Form 6 will undoubtedly remain a topic of interest and debate.