Empty chairs speak volumes about Bean and Sturges

Mayor Bradley Bean and Vice Mayor David Sturges were missing in action at Wednesday's City Commission candidate forum hosted by Citizens of Fernandina Beach at the Atlantic Rec Center.

It's a disservice to the citizens of Fernandina Beach that two incumbents chose not to justify their record of four years on the city commission.

Also opting out was Commissioner Darron Ayscue, who is running for mayor.

Some of their supporters  claim the forum was organized by political activist Sheila Cocchi, and the event was an attempt to ambush the mayor and vice mayor with 'gotcha' questions. Cocchi has been a frequent critic of their performance at city commission meetings, even accusing them of "cronyism" in their dealings with other city and Nassau County officials.

However, as Fernandina Beach ramps up for the upcoming city commission elections, Bean's and Sturges' decision raises critical questions about their commitment to transparency, accountability, and engagement with the electorate.

First, their choice not to participate is unprecedented in the recent history of city commission candidate forums. Never before have candidates boycotted a candidate forum.

Candidate forums serve as a crucial component of the democratic process. They provide an invaluable opportunity for local voters to assess the qualifications, platforms and priorities of candidates seeking to serve on the city commission. For Bean and Sturges, these forums are not just a chance to highlight their achievements and outline their vision for the future; they are a critical means of reaffirming their dedication to the community they serve.

The forums also reveal how candidates stand on important local issues -- and that might be at the very heart of why Bean and Sturges decided not to face questioning.

At the recent Nassau County Chamber of Commerce candidate forum, Mayor Bean declared that he supported building a bioethanol plan at his employer's - RYAM - facility. He said it was a "no brainer" and a "huge win" for Fernandina Beach. Obviously, at any ensuing forum, Bean would be questioned about those statements.

Sturges also stumbled at the chamber event stating that he viewed Nassau County government as the city's "big brother" when it came to making important decisions. He said he would always ask his 'big brother' for advice about key decisions in the city. His statements raise concerns about the city being subordinate to the will of the county.

The absence of Bean and Sturges reflects disengagement and a lack of accountability. When elected officials avoid direct questioning and discussion, it raises questions about their willingness to address public scrutiny and engage with the issues that matter most to city voters. In a time when public trust in government is increasingly fragile, such perceptions can undermine confidence in the very institutions that are meant to serve and represent the people.

The decision by Bean and Sturges to skip this forum is particularly perplexing given the stakes of local governance. Fernandina Beach, with its unique blend of historical charm and modern challenges, requires thoughtful, engaged leadership. Its citizens have proven themselves to be engaged and interested in their city. Whether it’s addressing the balance between tourism and growth management, the aforementioned bioethanol plant, or preserving the town’s character, these issues demand open dialogue and robust debate.

Fernandina voters deserve leaders who are willing to stand before them, address their concerns, and earn their trust through direct engagement. Over 200 people attended the forum and others watched a livestream of the event.

All they got Wednesday were empty chairs.