Heritage Pines counsel advises separate candidate events to avoid Sunshine Law conflicts

District Chair Kathleen Lonergan read District Counsel’s written guidance on a proposed "Coffee with Candidates" event, saying incumbents who wish to participate must ensure compliance with the election code and "arrange separate events per seat to avoid any potential Sunshine Law violations." Lonergan said portions of the counsel’s response recommended separate events and noted that the Florida Election Commission enforces complaints but does not provide advisory opinions.

District Manager Chuck Adams invited further discussion but reported that the written response reduced the need for additional action; Vice Chair Arthur Rhodes said "our guy" would not attend under the counsel’s interpretation. Board members referenced a differing opinion from the HPCA attorney and raised questions about when the district must decline participation. The board did not take a formal vote on restricting attendance and appears to favor asking incumbents to hold separate events to limit legal exposure.