Round-up, 12.18.09

A few items we wanted to highlight today:

Page lists potential mayoral candidates. Jamie Page of the Pensacola News Journal lists the names he’s heard mentioned as possible mayoral candidates. No surprises except for Kenneth E. Lamb, the owner of CyberSmart Computers and WEBY radio personality, who at least as of 2008 did not live within the City limits.

O’Brien analyses McLaughlin firing. The PNJ‘s Mark O’Brien analyses yesterday’s decision by the Escambia County Commission not to renew the contract of County Administrator Bob McLaughlin.

Not looking good for John Wyche. O. J. Rembert has plead guilty to charges in connection with the alleged misuse of education funds at the Life Skills Center charter school, which he operated with business partner John Wyche. Mr. Rembert plans to testify against Mr. Wyche.

Outzen on Arts Council finances. Rick’s Blog analyses the finances of the recently-imploded Arts Council of Northwest Florida. According to Mr. Outzen, the Arts Council was not passing through all of its contributions intended for member organisations.

Idea for local cigarette tax dead. Mark O’Brien reports that Escambia County Commissioner Wilson Robertson’s idea to institute a local cigarette tax is dead on arrival, because it would require action in the Legislature, and the County’s lobbyist says lawmakers are not interested.

IN holiday issue. Check out the Independent News’ annual tongue-in-cheek “gift list” for various public figures.