PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release DATE: CONTACT: PHONE: FAX: WEBSITE: SUBJECT: July 28, 2011 Joseph

Gallegos, City Manager 954-390-2120 954-390-2199 www.wiltonmanors.com Citys response to Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus Demands the Wilton Manors Business Association turn away a planned visit by Congress member Allen West

The Mayor and Commission of the City of Wilton Manors would like to make clear that while they do not support Congressman Wests positions on equality for the GLBT community, the City is against the threatened action to call for a boycott of local businesses. A healthy business sector is a critical part of the economic vitality of any community and to damage those small businesses, many of which are owned by and employ members of the GLBT community makes no sense; particularly in such challenging economic times. It should be clear that Ms. Celeste Ellich, current President of the Wilton Manors Business Association (WMBA) does not in any way speak for the City of Wilton Manors nor does she represent the City in any capacity. As a private citizen and head of a private organization, she is free to rent our facility and invite anyone as a featured speaker. Neither the City nor its businesses were involved in her decision to invite Congressman West. The City would hope that she would extend similar invitations to all legislators (state and federal) who represent Wilton Manors. Regardless, the members of WMBA cover the gamut of our Citys significant and diverse business community and employers, and include everything from major area hospitals and banks to local restaurants, professional services, and even the City itself. We want to make it absolutely clear that the City of Wilton Manors supports its business community, and has undertaken substantial efforts to sustain existing businesses, and to attract new businesses. Calling for an economic boycott of our business community because you do not happen to agree with Ms. Ellichs invitation to Congressman West is not only counterproductive, but is irresponsible, stated Mayor Gary Resnick. As a member of the GLBT Caucus, I was taken aback that such action would even be suggested. Furthermore, damaging our businesses will not affect Ms. Ellichs or Congressman Wests attitudes or beliefs. While the City has no issue with residents exercising their rights to peaceful protest and to communicate their views, including making their views known at the ballot box, we strongly object to a call for a boycott of our businesses, and suggest that Mr. Rajner would be better served to get his points across in some positive way, rather than threaten to hurt the wonderful, diverse and vital businesses in our city.
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