by David Chapman
Staff Writer
In the wake of the targeted shooting of an Arizona congresswoman during a public constituent meeting over the weekend, security for public officials and the increase of angry public rhetoric have been in the spotlight.
For two city and state leaders, the mass shooting that left six dead and 14 wounded, including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, created a time to reflect.
“I know there is danger out there,” said State Rep. Lake Ray, vice chair of the Duval Delegation.
Ray has been an elected official for more than a decade, serving on City Council from 1997-2007 before being elected to the Florida House in 2008 and subsequently re-elected.
In that time, Ray said he’s held at least 125 town-hall style meetings and has never been physically threatened, but he has seen tempers flare over contentious issues.
Two such meetings he can remember involved discussion of a runway extension at Jacksonville Executive Airport, then called Craig Airport, and discussion about affordable housing at an apartment complex, with boisterous crowds protesting both.
“People get frustrated at some of the issues and try to sound off,” said Ray. “I try to have as many town halls as possible to help.”
As a state representative, Ray said his goal is to have eight meetings a year, and a minimum of four, with constituents. He said he won’t alter how he interacts with the public given the political climate or recent incident.
“I just have to take that risk,” said Ray. “I don’t expect anything to happen ... I think it would be an injustice to those I serve to change things.”
City Council President Jack Webb is among those who agree.
“You absolutely cannot play scared because that’s when you get hurt,” said Webb. “Just like any other contact sport.”
Webb said the weekend incident moved him to tears and reminded him of an incident at City Hall in 2008 involving a man threatening to kill then-council member Daniel Davis and Mayor John Peyton. The man was arrested.
Webb said he’s been a part of numerous public events and meetings while on the council.
While the events can leave officials vulnerable, the availability and openness is part of the process. Like Ray, Webb said he has never received threats of physical violence.
“We are in the limelight and immensely involved,” said Webb. “It’s one of the great things about local politics.”
Webb said he was mindful of public sentiment and hostility toward several issues, including the budget session that was pending when he was installed as president.
To ease any possible firestorm, Webb asked council colleagues to remain mindful and civil when discussing issues and to set an example.
“When we lose civility, then anger boils over,” said Webb.
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