Disappointing Third TDC Audit Released

On Wednesday the County Clerk’s Office released the third and most recent audit of the Tourist Development Council that only shows additional problems to the overall operation.  Not only has there been limited supervision of the enormous, unjustified advertising budget increases from 2019 at $19 million to $36 million in 2024, it now appears there was favoritism when bidding out the RFPs. Tinsley Advertising went unchallenged in the last contract renewal because the TDC writes their requests for proposal to make it nearly impossible for any other firm to bid. The BOCC has a duty to ask questions of these increases as well as question why no other advertising and marketing companies are applying for this lucrative work.  (Note the Budget increase for Tinsley Advertising in the graph below, which is just a portion of the overall increase to the TDC’s budget)

Image from Keys Weekly reporting article- 2/28/24

When budgets go up so much and so fast with no explanation things get sloppy and the risk for mismanagement and corruption increases. This is exactly why I’m running, as an independent voice to ask “why” to protect our hard working taxpayers. As Commissioner I will be proactive in asking these questions and not waiting until another damning audit is released.

“When budgets go up so much and so fast with no explanation things get sloppy and the risk for mismanagement and corruption increases. ”

As a candidate for Commissioner, I am committed to shining a light on where your hard earned dollars are going, asking the tough questions when it comes to sharp budget increases and full transparency to our residents. I will not shy away from being the financial watchdog that is clearly needed on the BOCC.  

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:

Tiffany Dunsmore - Tiffany@chrisformonroe.com 

Campaign Manager

Sincerely,

Chris Massicotte